How to make sure guests folllow the check in times?

[Sonia1891]

Hello Airbnb Community,

I have my third stay where the guests want to check in really late. The first time was supposed to be around 9pm and ended up past 12 am which was a bad experience for me. And now I've bought a lockbox even though I didn't want to just to make sure I don't get stuck waiting around for guests. However, is there any other advice anyone has? Maybe I'm missing something but I did put in specific check in and check out times and added late fees to my house rules. As of now, it should be set to check in 4-6pm. Here is my listing link, airbnb.com/h/dekroon

Does anyone see any changes I should make? If so, please let me know. I'd really appreciate it. 

Kind regards,
Sonia

[Joan2709]

@Sonia1891 

Right now the listing link says your check in is 2-4pm not 4-6pm?

Several Hosts I work with have check-in windows like yours. Several things you can do:

1. Add your check-in window to the description or other details to note on the listing

2. When a guest books, add a paragraph to your Welcome Message about the check-in window

3. Add a paragraph to your Check-in message about the check-in window

4. Get a smart lock for self check-in. Manual keys will get lost or not returned by guests

"Please note our check-in window is between 4-6pm. If you know your approximate time of arrival, please let us know ."

[Melissa2498]

@Joan2709 I use the Schlage app.  It gives my guests a code and notifies me when they check in and lock up.  It goes with the Airbnb app, which I love.  I also have a Ring doorbell.

[Marilyn50]

My guests are able to check in any time.  I have a keyless lock and program the last four numbers of their listed phone number. That way there is no key to be lost or misplaced.

[Marilyn50]

And they always know what code is.   Addition to above message.  Works great

[Mark3910]

A Smart lock for self check-in and sending the guest a lock code should solve your problem. If you want to personally greet and check people in, like I do, then you are at the mercy of the customer. If you and the customer agree on a check-in time and they don't show up on time (I have a 15-min. leeway rule) then just note it in your review or a note for other hosts to see.

Many times I have the opposite situation, people ask to check-in early and then don't show up on the agreed upon time. As I live on the premises it is usually not a problem unless I had something scheduled. If you want those great reviews you sometimes have to bend over backwards for people.

[Marie8425]

@Sonia1891 

I think your check in time should be based on typical arrival times.  When I did a travel spot people flying in international flights were generally late arrivals.  Currently nI do mostly business travel driving in on Sunday.  My check in time is before 7 pm.  Before I accept a booking I remind them, mostly because my dogs like to bark hello and other guests have to get up early for work Monday.  I just say no if someone can't arrive by 7 come the next day stay at a hotel 1 night.