How do I stop small parties being seated at large tables?
What are table size rules?
Table size rules optimise seating by specifying the minimum number of guests who should be seated at a given table size. This helps keep larger tables available for larger parties.
These rules apply automatically to the online widget. POS users can still override them during manual reservation entry.
Adding a rule
- Go to Settings > Tables > Services.
- Edit the required service.
- Open the Rules section.
- Click + Add Rule.
- Select Enabled.
- Enter a description.
- Choose Table Size from the type dropdown.
- Enter the table size the rule applies to.
- Enter the minimum covers allowed at that table size.
- Select the relevant time profile.
- Click Save.
- Use Update Tills and Send Changes.
Table sizes come from the table setup in the Table Areas plan. You can make these rules stricter on busy profiles and looser on quieter profiles.
Refresh the widget browser after the change and allow up to two minutes for updates to apply.
Example short sell rules
The following examples match a common setup used to avoid under-using larger tables during busy services.
| Description | Trigger Covers | Min Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Do not short sell 4s (min 3) | 4 | 3 |
| Do not short sell 5s (min 4) | 5 | 4 |
| Do not short sell 6s (min 4) | 6 | 4 |
| Do not short sell 7s (min 5) | 7 | 5 |
| Do not short sell 8s (min 5) | 8 | 5 |
| Do not short sell 9s (min 5) | 9 | 5 |
| Do not short sell 10s (min 7) | 10 | 7 |
| Do not short sell 11s (min 8) | 11 | 8 |
FAQ
Do table size rules stop staff assigning a small party to a large table on POS?
No. The rules apply to the online widget. POS users can still override them manually.
Can I use different table size rules on busy days only?
Yes. Assign the rule to a specific time profile so it only applies on the services or days you want.