> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.tipo.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.tipo.io/tipo-appointment-booking/settings/allow-overlapping-time-slots.md).

# Allow overlapping time slots

Overlapping time slots lets customers choose **more start times** for the same service duration. It’s great when you want flexible booking times like **9:00, 9:15, 9:30…** instead of only **9:00, 10:00, 11:00**.

***

### ✅  How it works

Your service still keeps the same duration (example: 60 minutes).\
Overlapping only changes how frequently start times appear.

#### Example (60-minute service)

**Without overlapping**\
Customers see slots every 60 minutes: **9:00, 10:00, 11:00** 

**With overlapping (every 15 minutes)**\
Customers see more start times: **9:00, 9:15, 9:30, 9:45, 10:00…** 

⇒ This gives customers more flexibility to book a time that fits their schedule.

<figure><img src="/files/d8ocgbIHSZBIFapeazcN" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

### **💡** When to use this setting

Use **Allow overlapping** if you want:

* More booking options
* Busy schedules where customers need flexibility
* Services like **haircuts, consultations, yoga classes**, etc.

Avoid very small intervals (like 5 minutes) unless you truly need it, your booking list can become too long.

***

### 🛠️ Set up overlapping time slots

1. Open the app > click **Settings** > **Advanced** > scroll down to **Allow flexible time slots**
2. Select option **Allow overlapping**
3. Select **Time stepping**
4. Click **Save**

<figure><img src="/files/Dw3fVN0HXRrbnv6onVNP" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Example**

If you set:

* **Service duration:** 60 minutes
* **Time stepping:** 15 minutes

Customers may see available start times like:\
**9:00, 9:15, 9:30, 9:45, 10:00, 10:15…**

Each booking still lasts **60 minutes**, but customers can start at more times.

***

### 📌 Important notes

* **Overlapping slots do NOT mean double booking.**\
  A booking still blocks the full service duration.
* If you allow overlapping but still don’t see extra slots, check:
  * staff availability hours
  * blocked time/off dates
  * booking date range limits
  * service duration (very long durations naturally reduce available starts)

***

**🙋 Still need support?**

If you still need help, please feel free to contact us at <hi@tipo.io>. We’ll be happy to assist you further.