Your automotive shop’s invoicing system shows all your customers how much they owe, what they're paying for, and when to issue payment. Is it any surprise that one tiny invoice error can lead to months of knock-on effects for your automotive shop?

Installing automotive appointment scheduling software by Shopmanager offers highly efficient invoicing and scheduling if you’d like to simplify things. In the meantime, the experts from Shopmanager describe common invoicing mistakes your automotive shop could avoid.

Mistake #1: Incorrect Pricing on Your Automotive Shop’s Invoice

Has your customer received an invoice from you with a different price than what they agreed on? They won't be happy about it. This invoicing error has several potential causes, ranging from simple human error to miscommunication. 

Regardless of the reason, your customer may rightly refuse to pay for the service until you fix the error. They might even demand a full refund from your automotive shop, which can have lasting consequences for your bottom line. To avoid this problem, ensure transparent pricing agreements and clear communication between your customers and the automotive shop’s team.

Mistake #2: Inaccurate or Missing Information on Your Automotive Shop’s Invoice

Does your invoice describe exactly what products or services the person is paying for? Common invoicing mistakes automotive shops make include inaccurate or missing information.

Often, this happens when a customer overlooks providing their details, so be diligent about ensuring all invoices have the information your automotive shop needs from them. Detail the services or products, as well as your customer's information.

Mistake #3: Sending the Invoice Out To Your Automotive Shop’s Customers Too Late

There’s no secret; timely invoices are essential for timely payments. 

Have you sent out an invoice too late? Expect your automotive shop’s customers to feel confused about the payment due date or amount. Missed or late payments are inevitable.

Mistake #4: Sending Too Many Invoices for the Same Thing From Your Automotive Shop

Effective business management ensures that no customer receives multiple invoices for the same service. If your automotive shop customers do happen to receive duplicate invoices, it causes confusion for them as well as your team. 

This mistake often occurs due to human error or miscommunication, but even simple tracking of an invoice number can make a big difference. Invoicing software like Shopmanager’s is worth looking into.

Mistake #5: Not Sending Reminders For Outstanding Automotive Shop Accounts Receivable

Lastly, customers often need a nudge to pay what they owe. Friendly reminders let them know when their payments are due or as they tick over into the ”past due” category. 

Without reminders, your automotive shop’s customers may simply forget about your payment or assume they’ve paid it since they haven’t heard from you. Clear invoice reminders clarify expectations and keep things cordial.

One Solution For Automotive Shops: Shopmanager

How can your automotive shop avoid these common invoicing mistakes to streamline the payment process? Whether you're looking for more accurate and trackable invoicing or easier payroll management, Shopmanager’s software for automotive shops can help. Call today at (833) 366-3344 to learn more.