How Do You Keep Track Of Keys

[email protected] · July 24, 2018

This may be an odd topic but with the right strategies you can help workflow and prevent lost or misplaced keys. one of the most annoying things, other than that misplaced 10mm socket, is when you misplace a key.

Customer hands you key > place tag on key> place invoice and key in hanging plastic order> place on workflow rack(or hand to technician)> tech pulls car in> I prefer if a car is in the bay to have the key on the seat with the window rolled down(to prevent lockout) or have the key in the hanging plastic invoice holder hanging on the mirror> Vehicle finished and key makes its way back to front office> then given to customer.

This seems like a logical workflow. However my concern is what do you do with keys when cars stay overnight?

If the vehicle is parked outside, Do you put them in a Safe/Lock box? Drawer?

If the vehicle is parked inside and is currently being worked on, do you leave the key in the car? hanging holder on the mirror? Safe/Lock box?

stvstbsvc · July 29, 2018

Funny question, that. I find it amazing that I have had an issue my whole life losing / misplacing my own keys but now that I own a shop - I am responsible for all those keys! Tags go on Immediately. There is a nice big key rack with enough spaces for car awaiting service, cars awaiting parts, and cars on stand-by. Keys for completed cars live in a bin with the invoice awaiting pick-up and payment. Keys for cars in the building live in the ignition, with a window open. I think the most important thing is to have an organization plan, a system in place and have EVERYONE buy in and keep it going. CONSISTENCY IS THE KEY!