Turnaround Time#

Turnaround time (buffer time) is the gap between rentals for cleaning, inspection, refueling, and preparation. RecSystems automatically blocks this time so you're never rushed between customers.

Why Turnaround Time Matters#

Without buffer time:

• Back-to-back bookings leave no prep time
• Staff are rushed between customers
• Equipment may not be properly cleaned
• Customer experience suffers

With proper buffer time:

• Clean and inspect equipment thoroughly
• Refuel if needed
• Reset for the next customer
• Maintain quality standards

How Buffer Time Works#

Buffer time is added after each booking ends:

Booking ends: 1:00 PM
Buffer time: 60 minutes
Next available: 2:00 PM

The system automatically makes 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM unavailable for new bookings.

Setting Buffer Time#

Step 1: Go to Timeslot Settings#

Navigate to Settings → Timeslots and select a timeslot.

Step 2: Find Cleanup Minutes#

Look for the Cleanup Minutes (or Buffer Time) field.

Step 3: Enter Duration#

Enter the number of minutes needed:

Step 4: Save#

Click Save to apply the buffer time.

Recommended Buffer Times#

By Equipment Type#

By Rental Duration#

Buffer Time Examples#

Hourly Jet Ski Rentals#

Settings:

• Cleanup minutes: 30
• Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM

Schedule:

• 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Customer A (2-hour rental)
• 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Buffer (unavailable)
• 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM: Customer B (2-hour rental)
• 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Buffer (unavailable)
• 2:00 PM onward: Available

Daily Boat Rentals#

Settings:

• Cleanup minutes: 60
• Pickup: 9 AM, Return: 5 PM

Schedule:

• Day 1: Customer A (9 AM - 5 PM)
• 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Buffer
• Day 2 (9 AM): Ready for Customer B

Note: With daily rentals, the buffer typically falls outside operating hours.

Different Buffers for Different Units#

If some units need more turnaround time:

Option 1: Separate Timeslots#

Create timeslots with different buffer times:

• Jet Ski Quick — 30 min buffer
• Pontoon Standard — 60 min buffer
• RV Extended — 120 min buffer

Assign units to appropriate timeslots.

Option 2: Generous Default#

Use the longest buffer needed and accept some slack for simpler units.

Impact on Availability#

More Buffer = Less Bookings#

Higher buffer times mean fewer possible bookings:

9 AM - 5 PM (8 hours), 2-hour rentals:

• No buffer: 4 rentals possible
• 30 min buffer: 3 rentals possible
• 60 min buffer: 3 rentals possible

Finding the Balance#

Consider:

• What's the minimum time for quality prep?
• What buffer maximizes bookings without sacrificing quality?
• Can you staff for quick turnovers?

Customer Experience#

Customers don't see buffer time:

• They book available slots only
• Buffer is invisible to them
• They just see available or not available

Adjusting Buffer Time#

Increase When:#

• Staff report feeling rushed
• Equipment quality is suffering
• Customers are waiting at pickup

Decrease When:#

• Large gaps between bookings
• Staff have excess downtime
• Missing booking opportunities

Troubleshooting#

Back-to-back bookings appearing#

• Verify cleanup minutes is set
• Save the timeslot after changing
• May need to refresh availability cache

Too much time between bookings#

• Buffer may be set too high
• Check all timeslots for correct values
• Consider if buffer is appropriate for equipment type

Can't fit expected number of rentals#

• Buffer reduces available slots
• Calculate: (Operating hours - rental time × bookings - buffer × (bookings-1))
• Adjust buffer or hours as needed

Related Articles:

• Understanding Availability
• Setting Rental Schedules