Transitioning from paper-based Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspections to electronic WOFs (eWOFs) is a simple, cost-free process for workshops in New Zealand. With tools like the system provided by itsallauto.com, which is free and already NZTA-approved, the switch to eWOFs is seamless. Here are the seven steps to transition from paper WOFs to eWOFs:
1. Choose an NZTA-approved eWOF Provider
Workshops do not need to seek NZTA approval to begin using eWOFs. Instead, all they need to do is select a provider that has already been approved by the NZTA. itsallauto.com is one such provider, offering a free and easy-to-use eWOF system. This platform also provides training videos and PDFs to help you and your team familiarize yourselves with the eWOF system.
2. Access Training Materials
Before jumping into eWOFs, take advantage of the itsallauto.com training resources. This website offers comprehensive training videos and downloadable PDFs that walk users through the entire eWOF process. These materials can be invaluable for ensuring that everyone on your team is comfortable with the new system. As the process is digital, watching these training videos and going through the guides will help you get up to speed quickly.
3. Use Existing Devices
One of the advantages of switching to eWOFs is that no new equipment is required. The system works on both Android and iPhones, so there’s no need to invest in additional devices. Inspectors can use their current smartphones to perform eWOFs. This makes the transition not only easier but also more cost-effective.
4. Set Up Free Individual Accounts
Each inspector in your workshop can set up their own free eWOF account through itsallauto.com. These accounts come with customizable settings for WOF inspectors, allowing them to tailor the platform to their individual inspection preferences. Setting up these accounts is straightforward, and it enables the workshop to function smoothly within the eWOF system while maintaining individual inspector autonomy.
5. Run eWOFs in Parallel with Paper WOFs
One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with the eWOF process is by running eWOFs in parallel with paper WOFs during the transition phase. This approach lets your inspectors perform their usual paper WOF inspections while also completing an eWOF on the same vehicle. Doing so will help them build confidence and familiarity with the eWOF system before fully transitioning away from paper WOFs.
6. Maintain Data Entry Consistency
Even though you’re switching to an electronic system, some processes will remain the same for now. Data entry into the NZTA WOF portal and the issuance of WOF stickers for vehicle windscreens will not change immediately. Workshops will still need to enter data manually into the NZTA portal online and issue physical WOF stickers. However, by late 2025, the eWOF system is possibly expected to automatically send data directly to the NZTA’s Vehicle Inspection Certificate (VIC) system, further streamlining the process.
7. Transition Fully to eWOFs
Once your team is comfortable using eWOFs in parallel with paper WOFs, you can make the full transition to the electronic system. By this point, your inspectors will be proficient with the platform, and your workshop will be able to eliminate paper WOFs entirely. With itsallauto.com, there is no cost for using the eWOF system, and your workshop will be fully prepared for the eventual automation of the data entry process into the NZTA system.
Switching to eWOFs offers many benefits, including improved efficiency, reduced paperwork, and a more streamlined process. Workshops that take the time to transition properly, using the tools and training provided by itsallauto.com, will be well-positioned to reap the rewards of this digital upgrade.