Answering service, AI receptionist, or voicemail?
Most trade shops try voicemail first, then an answering service. Here's how an AI receptionist like Hooked Line compares, for a shop that can't always get to the phone.
| Hooked Line | Answering service | Voicemail | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Answers at 2 a.m. | Yes | Usually, at a higher rate | No |
| Answers in your shop's name | Yes | Yes | Your greeting |
| Handles a gas or CO call safely | Tells them to get out and call 911, then rings your on-call | Depends on the script and the person | No |
| Rings you for urgent calls | Yes, to the number you choose | Often, for an extra fee | No |
| Summary of every call | Emailed after every call, with recording and transcript | Varies | You listen to each one |
| Asks your trade's questions | Yes, you set them | From a script | No |
| Cost | Flat monthly plan plus usage | Per minute or per call, usually | Free |
Voicemail is free, but most callers with a real problem hang up and try the next number. A person at an answering service is great when they know your business. An AI receptionist is built around your shop's answers and picks up every time.
Straight answers.
Is an AI receptionist better than an answering service?
It depends on the shop. An AI receptionist answers every call the same way, asks your questions and costs a flat monthly fee. An answering service gives you a person, usually billed per minute or per call.
Will callers know it's automated?
If they ask, it tells them plainly. It answers in your shop's name with a name you pick.
Do I keep my phone number?
Yes. Calls forward to your receptionist after hours, on overflow, or all the time. Your choice.
Will it quote prices or make deals?
No. Prices, arrival times, discounts and refunds go to you as a callback.
What does it cost?
Deckhand is $497 a month plus $1,500 setup. Wheelhouse is $997 a month plus $2,500 setup. Usage past the included amount bills to your card at posted rates.
Hear it for yourself.
Call our own front desk, Nora, and ask her anything. Or book 15 minutes with Gradey to see it set up for your shop.