jlzwhite.gif (125550 bytes)  Service Bay Management
    Posted July 22, 2008                                                                                         JLZ Business Services
Our Service Bay Management Section provides valuable on-line information for the auto repair and smog shop owner. We're certain you'll find something to make your business more successful.
B.A.R. Enforcement
The California Bureau of Automotive Repair has hired additional enforcement personal. They have significantly expand their enforcement force and efforts. Now would be a good time to double check all your company policies and review your work order writing, auto repair and smog test procedures.

Professional Work Order Guidelines

 Preparation:

red_triangle_bullet.gif (169 bytes) How to Write a Proper Work Order Estimate

  • Use the correct work order form.                                                                                               
  • Prepare the work order prior to starting work on the customer’s car.
  • Gather the complete customer information required by the BAR and state law. The information required is: Name, address, phone number ( reachable ), mileage, license number, order taken by, etc.
  • Complete the work order.

Estimates:

red_triangle_bullet.gif (169 bytes) Professionally Estimated Labor Rate Times

  • Have the customer sign, and provide the customer with a written estimate.              
  • Enter the work, parts and labor as completed.                                                                      
  • Extent the figures after you have checked the labor guide manuals.              

Building Sales:

red_triangle_bullet.gif (169 bytes) Maintenance & Safety Inspection Checklist

  • Inspect the vehicle using your vehicle safety inspection check list, and note other items that need attention. 
  • Place old parts in parts bag and return them to the customer when he picks up his car.
  • Add to total and check your math. Staple adding machine tape to work order.

Management:

red_triangle_bullet.gif (169 bytes) Auto Repair Telemarketing Guidelines

  • Daily record the opening and closing work order number.
  • No work order should be destroyed. IRS and the Franchise Tax Board require that you void and retain all work orders not used.
  • Place the work order number on all parts store invoices.
  • Keep all work orders for 5 years.
  • Keep remainder of work orders in a secured area.

THE WORK ORDER IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS IN THE BUSINESS. YOU MUST TREAT THEM AS SUCH