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How To Send the Pre Check-In Link Using BookingAutomation Auto Action

Learn how to add auto actions to automate sending your pre-check-in link.

Written by Cathy Yap

ChargeAutomation generates dynamic pre-check-in links mapped directly to the reservation identifier. In BookingAutomation, you can use the [BOOKINGID] template variable to construct the unique link for each guest inside an automated email or channel message.


đŸ§©Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Step 1: Go to Auto Actions in BookingAutomation

  1. Log in to your BookingAutomation account.

  2. In the left navigation menu, go to Settings > Guest Management > Auto Actions (or Settings > Auto Actions).

  3. Click Add Auto Action (or select an existing automated message you want to edit).


Step 2: Configure the Trigger & Filters

Set when and to whom this message should be sent:

  • Name: Give your action a clear name (e.g., ChargeAutomation - Pre Check-In Invitation).

  • Trigger Event: Choose when the message fires:

    • Immediately after booking is created / confirmed

    • X days before check-in (e.g., 2–3 days prior to arrival)

  • Booking Source / Channel: Select All or select specific OTAs (Airbnb, Booking.com, VRBO, Direct Bookings).

  • Properties / Rooms: Select the properties where ChargeAutomation is enabled.


Step 3: Add the Message Content & Pre-Check-In URL

  1. Select your delivery method (Email and/or Airbnb / OTA Channel Messaging).

  2. Set your Subject Line:

  3. Action Required: Please complete your Online Check-In for [PROPERTYNAME]

  4. In the message body, add your guest instructions and the dynamic pre-check-in link:

    • Standard ChargeAutomation Link Format:

  • If using a Whitelabel / Custom Domain:


📝Sample Message Template

You can copy and customize this template in your Auto Action:

Hi [GUESTNAME],

Thank you for choosing to stay with us at [PROPERTYNAME]!

To ensure a smooth and seamless arrival, please complete your online pre-check-in before your arrival date:

👉 Complete Online Check-In:

Through pre-check-in, you can:

- Verify your guest details & upload ID

- Review check-in / check-out times

- Access your digital guidebook and arrival instructions

If you have any questions before arrival, feel free to reply to this message.

Safe travels,

[HOSTNAME]


Step 4: Save & Test

  1. Click Save to activate the Auto Action.

  2. Verification test:

    • Open an existing test reservation in BookingAutomation.

    • Send a manual test message or trigger the action to verify that [BOOKINGID] resolves to the correct booking number and the link opens the guest's check-in page in ChargeAutomation.


🎯Pro-Tips & Best Practices

  • Airbnb Chat Compliance: If sending via Airbnb messages, ensure your message tone is focused on guest verification and arrival coordination.

  • Fallback & Reminder Actions: You can set up a secondary Auto Action (e.g., 1 day before check-in) as a reminder for guests who haven't completed their pre-check-in yet.

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