Every snooker club owner has seen the argument at the counter: players who say they played two frames when the boy at the table says three, or a group that insists the timer started late. Billing disputes cost money and goodwill. The fix starts with choosing the right billing method for each table and applying it the same way every time.
The three common billing methods
Most clubs in Pakistan use one or more of three methods. Each has its place, and many clubs mix them depending on the table, the time of day or the type of customer.
- Frame billing: a fixed charge per frame played, regardless of time.
- Century billing: a charge based on points scored, often used for longer or competitive games.
- Hourly billing: a charge based on time on the table, usually calculated by the minute.
Frame billing: simple but needs discipline
Frame billing is easy for customers to understand. They know exactly what each frame costs, and fast players are not penalised for finishing quickly.
Frame billing also makes rate changes simple to communicate, since customers compare one clear number per frame. The weakness is counting. If frames are tracked on a scrap of paper or in the table boy's memory, numbers get disputed. Each frame should be recorded as it starts, on a screen or counter terminal, so the bill builds up during play, not at the end.
When frame billing works best
- Regular players who play short, quick frames.
- Busy evenings where tables turn over often.
- Clubs with an attendant at each set of tables to record frames promptly.
Century billing: for longer games
Century billing charges according to points, typically in blocks such as a century of points. It suits serious players who play long, competitive games where a frame-based charge would feel unfair.
Because it depends on score, it needs a clear, agreed method of recording points. Decide in advance how incomplete centuries are charged, whether rounded up, pro-rated or charged as a minimum, and write the rule on the rate board.
Hourly billing: the cleanest for disputes
Time-based billing is the hardest to argue with, provided the timer is visible and starts and stops correctly. It works for snooker, pool, and most gaming setups, and it rewards the club fairly when players spend a long time on one table.
- Start the timer the moment players take the table, not when they start the first shot.
- Show the running time and running amount on a screen at the counter.
- Define the minimum charge, such as the first fifteen or thirty minutes.
- Decide how partial minutes are rounded and keep it consistent.
- Stop the timer only when the table is handed back and checked.
Setting rates that make sense
Whatever method you use, write it down and train every counter staff member on it, including weekend and night shift staff. Your rates should reflect table quality, location, time of day and demand. A tournament-standard table can carry a higher rate than an older table in the corner.
- Set separate rates for peak evening hours and quiet daytime hours.
- Offer member rates or packages for regular players, recorded against their profile.
- Keep a clear rate board at the counter showing every method and minimum.
- Change rates only on a planned date, and update the system and the board together.
Rules that prevent counter arguments
Most disputes come from unclear rules, not dishonest players. A short, written house policy removes guesswork.
- Billing method is agreed when the table is assigned, not at the end.
- Table switches are recorded so time or frames carry over correctly.
- Canteen orders are added to the same table bill as they are served.
- Bills are printed or shown on screen before payment, with start time, end time and items.
- Discounts can only be given by the manager and are recorded with a reason.
End-of-day checks for the owner
At day close, compare the total table income with the cash and digital payments received. Look at each table's hours used and income earned. A table showing many hours but low income may have discounts or missing bills. A table that is always busy at peak time might justify a higher rate. Over a few weeks, these daily checks show which billing method earns best on which tables, so you can adjust with evidence rather than guesswork.
A snooker club system with live time-based and frame billing keeps timers, frames and canteen orders on one bill, so the counter has nothing to argue about.
If you want a billing setup that removes guesswork from every table, Brainnine Solutions can show you a free demo with your own tables, rates and billing rules.
Frequently asked questions
Which billing method is best for a snooker club?
There is no single best method. Many clubs use hourly billing as the default and offer frame or century billing for specific tables or regular players.
How do I handle players who switch tables?
Record the switch in your system so the time or frame count moves with the players. This keeps one continuous bill and avoids double charging or missed time.
Should canteen items be on the same bill as the table?
Yes. Adding tea, drinks and snacks to the table bill as they are served means players pay once and nothing is forgotten at the counter.