Customers can check in four ways. All of them create a work order (RO) on the Day board.
Web / QR code: the customer scans the shop's QR code or opens the shop's check-in page, types their name, phone, vehicle and concern, picks a drop-off time and agrees to the drop-off terms.
Text: a returning customer texts CHECK IN to the shop number. TotalBay asks which car and what's wrong, then sends a link to agree to the drop-off terms. Texting a picture of the car also starts a check-in, with the plate or make/model filled in.
Phone: if the phone assistant (Mark) is on, he can check in a caller and book their drop-off time.
Desk: staff can start a check-in for a walk-in from the Day board.
There is no check-in code. Typing a phone number on the check-in page never fills in someone else's details; TotalBay matches the customer by phone after they submit.
Leaving the car and keys is the customer's signature on the drop-off authorization, including a test drive. The owner can get a text for every check-in (see Texting).