How to Reduce
Overbookings
Overbookings happen when the same room is sold twice on different channels. The good news: they are 100% preventable with the right setup and tools.
What Causes Overbookings?
Overbookings typically happen because of separate systems not talking to each other effectively.
The Solution
Centralize everything and let software update channels automatically.
10 Ways to Eliminate Overbookings
1. Use a Real-Time Channel Manager
iCal links sync slowly (2–6 hours). A real-time channel manager like NOBEDS updates Booking.com, Airbnb, and Google instantly.
2. Manage All Bookings in One Calendar
When you use one central PMS/calendar, all bookings from all channels appear in one view. Cancellations and changes sync immediately.
3. Use API Connections
Manual updates are the #1 source of errors. APIs allow NOBEDS to update availability, prices, and restrictions automatically on all channels.
4. Keep Room Mapping Correct
Ensure each room in your PMS is mapped to the correct room type on OTAs. Avoid duplicates and hidden test rooms.
5. Maintain Accurate Inventory
Don't list 5 rooms on Booking.com AND 5 on Airbnb if you only have 5 total. Use **pooled inventory** so everyone shares the same count.
6. Block Rooms Immediately
For maintenance or deep cleaning, block the room in your PMS — not on each OTA individually. The PMS updates all channels automatically.
7. Avoid Last-Minute Mistakes
Close OTAs temporarily when near full. Use minimum stay rules to prevent 1-night gaps that are hard to fill.
8. Train Staff to Use One System
Never edit availability directly on OTAs. Always make changes in the PMS. One system = one accurate source of truth.
9. Automated Cleaning Tasks
Overbookings can happen if a room is wrongly marked "ready". Use automation to track cleaning status accurately.
10. Monitor Your Reports
Check for overbooking risk alerts and availability inconsistencies in your PMS reports. Fix problems early.
How NOBEDS Helps Reduce Overbookings
NOBEDS is built to eliminate overbookings completely by centralizing your operations.
Stop Worrying About Overbookings
Update once — everything stays accurate everywhere.
Start Syncing with NOBEDS