Six Steps for Speedy Drive-Thru Service

More people than ever are choosing to shop and conduct business from their car. And why not? It’s convenient and safe. Drive-thru service has long been the norm for fast food and financial institutions. Now groceries, libraries, and other retailers offer this and curbside services too. As these services have increased in popularity, so too have many drive-thru lines and with them, wait times.

The UFCU team is diligently working to ensure you receive the very best and speediest service possible. Consider these six tips to speed up your next drive-thru visit.

1. Make sure the trip is really necessary. We know that when it comes to best serving our Members, one size simply does not fit all. That’s why we offer a variety of ways for you to take care of your financial needs. Rather than wait in a drive-thru to deposit checks or transfer cash, take advantage of Online Banking or the UFCU Mobile Banking app from the convenience of home. Automated Phone Banking is another option for taking care of most everyday financial transactions.


2. Come prepared. The next time you visit the drive-thru, stock up on a few deposit slips and keep them (and a pen) handy in your car. Deposit slips are located in the receptacles just as you enter most drive-thru lines. Then on future trips, complete your slip before you get in line and be ready to place it in the tube as soon as it’s your turn.


Use our Quick Service Guide before you visit a drive-thru or anytime you’d like to learn how to complete your transactions as quickly and efficiently as possible.
3. Have your personal information handy. Don’t waste time at the drive-thru window digging through your purse or wallet for your ID. Have your driver’s license or other ID in hand and ready to use. You’ll need to know your account number; if you are like most of us and don’t have it memorized, write it down before heading to the drive-thru. If you plan to deposit checks, endorse them before getting in your car too. Being proactive and organized will save time for yourself and the Members in line behind you!


4. Practice good drive-thru etiquette. The drive-thru line is a great place to remember the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you. Everyone else in line will appreciate your courtesy, as will those working hard to expedite your service. How can you help? For starters, save the cell phone conversations for later. Instead, stay focused on what’s happening in front of you. Move up when other cars do, but keep a safe distance between cars. Once you are at the window, be ready to ask any questions. Speak clearly, and if your vehicle is particularly loud, consider turning your engine off. That helps UFCU Member Services representatives to hear you — and helps decrease wait time, too.


5. Avoid busier times. Try to plan your drive-thru visits for off-times and less busy days. UFCU drive-thrus tend to experience heavier traffic on the 1st and 15th of the month, the day before holidays or before severe weather predictions that might create business closures. Lunchtime crowds often are larger than those at mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Try to plan your visit at other times to take advantage of shorter lines and speedier service.


6. Research drive-thru services in advance. Remember, the drive-thru is not intended to be a full-service banking location. Drive-thru services generally are for making deposits and withdrawals. If you need to open or close an account, discuss a loan or explore credit card options, a representative at the drive-thru will not be able to help. Not sure if the service you need is offered at a drive-thru? Check our handy Quick Service Guide before heading our way.