RepairSlip
Free tool

Repair order template

An auto repair work order for when the keys hit the counter: the customer's concern, mileage in, the work and parts, and a line for their authorization. Free to print or save as PDF.
Your shop
Saved in this browser for next time.
Customer & vehicle
VIN
Labor, parts & fees
Preview

Tip: in the print dialog choose “Save as PDF” to email it. What you type stays in your browser; only the VIN is sent out, to look up the vehicle.

How shops use a repair order

  1. Check-in. Write the concern in the customer's words, the mileage and the VIN. Note any existing damage.
  2. Diagnosis. The tech inspects the car and adds findings. A multi-point inspection checklist keeps it consistent.
  3. Authorization. Call or text the customer, get the OK on each job, and record who approved and when.
  4. Work and close-out. The tech completes the work, and the RO becomes the invoice.

Keep ROs numbered and filed

Sequential RO numbers make it easy to find a car's history when it comes back with the same noise. If you're still on paper, file them by number and keep a log of plate and VIN to RO number.

Questions

What's the difference between a repair order and an invoice?+

The repair order (RO or work order) is opened when the car comes in: it records the concern, mileage and the work the customer authorized. The invoice is the final bill once the work is done. Many shops use the same number for both.

Why does the repair order need a signature?+

The signature shows the customer authorized the work and the estimated price. In many states you need that authorization before starting repairs.

Should I write down mileage in?+

Always. It protects you if there's a question about the car later, and it's what service reminders are based on.

Doing this every day?

Open repair orders in seconds, not on paper.

RepairSlip keeps every estimate, inspection and invoice in one place, and texts the customer a link to approve. $19 a month for the whole shop.

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