7 Common Collision Repair Center Scheduling Mistakes

Scheduling is probably one of the most overlooked parts of running a collision repair shop. It's easy to get busy, and just jot a customer's name on a time slot. This can lead to issues such as overbooking, underestimating repair times, and more. With the right software, you can make scheduling simple, and avoid these seven mistakes.

1. Overbooking

This is easy enough to do. You answer a call and schedule an appointment for a customer. Soon, one of your employees does the same, and you end up with people double booked. Make sure everyone is familiar with the software you use so you can avoid this mistake.

2. Underestimate Repair Time

Sometimes repairs take longer than expected because once you get under the hood, you discover the damage is greater than you originally thought. While this is unavoidable, it shouldn't be something that happens all the time. Book extra time to make sure you have plenty of time to finish the job.

3. Inadequate Communication

This can apply to you and your customers, as well as you and your employees. You should strive to be clear with everyone you have to discuss business with. To make sure things are clear, ask questions, listen carefully, and be specific. Follow up with texts and emails to make sure everyone is still on the same page. Having it in writing will help protect you in the event that someone is dissatisfied.

4. Ignoring Customer Preferences

It’s good business to strive to meet the customer's preferences, especially when it comes to scheduling. They have busy schedules of their own, and it can be difficult to set everything aside to come pick up their car. Offering several appointment times that fit within their preferences and your schedule allows them to pick the option that works best and keeps them happy.

5. Poor Coordination With Insurance Companies

Working with insurance companies is just part of running a collision repair shop. You'll have to coordinate with them on a regular basis, so it's crucial to make sure you have a good relationship with them. If you don't, they may start sending business to competitors. Try to schedule things around their time, and be upfront when you can't.

6. Failure to Manage Workload Effectively

Don't take on more than you can handle. This may lead to upset customers and insurance adjusters, but it's better to be up front that you can't meet their deadlines than rush through jobs that lead to further repairs. People may be disappointed, but when they get back their vehicle when promised, they will appreciate your efforts.

7. Inadequate Follow-ups

Don't forget to contact your customers throughout the process and after the work is done to make sure everything is running as expected. This is part of building a relationship with your customers, and they will appreciate the extra effort.

At Collision Resources, our scheduling software solutions are designed to streamline the scheduling process, helping collision repair centers to avoid some of these mistakes. Contact us today to learn more about how our scheduling software can help!