We’ve added a useful new option to Automation Rules that gives you greater control over when your automated guest messages are delivered. With this new setting, you can now schedule rules so messages are not sent until after a specific local time, based on the property’s time zone.
Why It Matters
This new setting helps you deliver a better guest experience by ensuring that automated messages never go out at odd hours or overnight. It also adds flexibility, since it works with every delivery type, including email and SMS.
Most importantly, the feature uses each property’s assigned time zone to ensure consistent, accurate delivery that aligns with your operations and your guests’ expectations.
We wouldn't recommend using this setting for booking confirmations. Guests expect confirmations immediately after booking. Delaying them could cause confusion or concern.
How It Works
Edit or Create a Rule
Navigate to Automation Rules and select an existing rule (or create a new one).
Fill out the rule as normal, then proceed to Step 3.
Choose “Send After Time of Day”
Specify the timing:
Example: Send 1 day before arrival, but not before 1:00 PM.
The system uses the unit’s time zone (see setup below) to calculate when messages can send.
Understand Timing Behavior
Rules are processed in batches.
Messages are sent at the next system processing time after your chosen cutoff.
Example: If you set 1:00 PM and the system last processed at 12:45, the message may go out around 1:15–1:20.
Delivery times are approximate, but always after the cutoff time you set.
Setting the Unit Time Zone
The feature relies on each unit’s time zone setting:
Navigate to Owners & Listings > Listings > Advanced Unit Setup > Select the "Location" filter > Time Zone.
Select the correct time zone for each property.
If left blank, the system defaults to UTC, which may not match your property’s local time.
Best Use Cases
Here are some examples where “Send After Time of Day” adds value:
Arrival instructions: Deliver key information during the day before check-in.
Reminder tasks: Example – “Take the trash out” reminders for guests.
Thank you messages: Send a friendly follow-up after checkout, at a convenient time.
Upsell opportunities: Promote mid-stay services like cleaning, experiences, or late checkout.
And one recommended “don’t”:
Booking confirmations: Avoid delaying confirmations—guests expect them immediately.
Summary
With this new setting in Automation Rules, you can fine-tune when messages go out, ensuring they arrive at guest-friendly times. By aligning delivery with each property’s time zone, you’ll improve the guest experience and maintain operational consistency.