💡 Note for channels (OTAs):
Same-day cut-off time must be set in each channel's extranet. The cut-off time for your connected channels cannot be set in SiteMinder. Check directly with each channel
Release period is set in SiteMinder (Rooms and rates > Rate plans) and sent to your connected channels as a stop sell, for channels that support receiving stop sells
About same day cut-off time for direct booking rates
If you don't want to accept last-minute reservations for your direct rates, you have two options:
Block same day bookings: Set a release period of at least 1 day in the rate plan (Rooms and rates > Rate Plans). This prevents same day bookings by requiring guests to book a certain number of days in advance
Accept same day bookings but with a time limit: Leave the release period blank and instead, manage your same-day bookings cut-off time for the direct booking rate. This allows same day bookings but only until a specific time (e.g., 2:00 PM)
Set same day cut-off time for Direct booking
To set a same day cut-off time for your direct booking rate:
Go to Direct booking > Rates.
Find the rate plan that contains the room rate you want. If its room rates are not already showing, click the arrow next to the rate plan to expand it and show its room rates.
Click the ellipsis button (three dots) next to the individual room rate (for example Queen room), not the three dots on the rate plan row, then click Edit rate.
In the General tab, find Same day cut-off time and click on the toggle to turn it on.
Select your preferred cut-off time from the dropdown (for example 2:00 PM).
Click Save.
Note:
The cut-off time is based on your property's timezone setting. Set your property's time zone to correctly indicate the start and end of each day - go to Property settings > General information > Language and region. An incorrect timezone can cause issues such as guests being able to book past check-in dates. Also ensure your SiteMinder timezone matches your PMS timezone setting (if connected to one)
For channels (OTAs), set the same day booking cut-off time in each channel's extranet directly