Daily Operations Checklist for Pawn Shops

Running a pawn shop requires consistency, organization, and compliance. A structured daily routine ensures smooth transactions, accurate records, and happy customers. Whether you're new to pawnbroking or training staff, this daily operations checklist covers everything you need to keep your business in order.

Complete Daily Operations Checklist

1. Opening Procedures (Before Business Hours)

• Security Check: Inspect doors, windows, and safes for tampering
• Alarm System: Disarm and test all security features
• Camera Verification: Ensure all surveillance cameras are operational
• Cash Preparation: Get change from safe and prepare registers
• Equipment Check: Test scales, testing equipment, and POS systems

2. Morning Operations (First 30 Minutes)

• Cash Management:
  • Count and record starting cash amounts
  • Verify cash drawer denominations
  • Prepare change orders if needed
• Daily Reports:
  • Print/Review overdue pawns list
  • Check items coming out of hold period
  • Generate today's redemption list
• Inventory Walkthrough:
  • Check high-value item locations
  • Verify security tags and displays
  • Note any missing or misplaced items

3. Transaction Processing (Throughout Day)

• New Pawns:
  • Complete all required paperwork
  • Take clear photos of items
  • Enter details into pawn software
  • Provide customer with receipt
• Redemptions:
  • Verify customer ID matches records
  • Calculate payoff amount with interest
  • Process payment and update system
  • Return item with all accessories
• Purchases:
  • Complete bill of sale with customer info
  • Check against stolen property databases
  • Issue payment according to policy

4. Compliance Management

• ID Verification: Confirm all customer IDs are valid and current
• Reporting: Submit required law enforcement reports (LEADS, RAPID, etc.)
• Record Keeping: Ensure all transactions are properly documented
• Hold Periods: Adhere to mandatory waiting periods for certain items

5. Sales Floor Management

• Merchandising:
  • Rotate featured items weekly
  • Ensure all items have visible price tags
  • Keep displays clean and organized
• Customer Service:
  • Greet all customers promptly
  • Answer questions knowledgeably
  • Suggest related items (upselling)
• Loss Prevention:
  • Monitor high-theft areas
  • Follow all security protocols
  • Document any suspicious activity

6. Closing Procedures (End of Day)

• Financial Reconciliation:
  • Count all cash and record totals
  • Prepare bank deposit
  • Balance credit card transactions
• Inventory Security:
  • Secure all high-value items
  • Lock jewelry cases and gun safes
  • Verify all items are accounted for
• Daily Reports:
  • Print end-of-day sales summary
  • Review transaction logs
  • Note any discrepancies
• Shop Maintenance:
  • Clean and organize work areas
  • Take out trash and recycling
  • Prepare for next business day

PPSS Software Features That Automate Daily Tasks

• Automated Reporting: Generates all required compliance reports with one click
• Transaction Tracking: Logs every pawn, purchase, and redemption with timestamps
• Inventory Management: Tracks item locations, status, and pricing automatically
• Customer Database: Stores all customer information and transaction history
• Alert System: Notifies staff of overdue pawns and upcoming redemptions
• Financial Reconciliation: Simplifies end-of-day cash balancing

FAQ: Daily Pawn Shop Operations