How to Use Messages?
Messages is Rentablez’s built-in messaging system that lets your team communicate in real-time without switching to external apps. Coordinate pickups, discuss orders, share updates — all within the same platform where you manage your rentals.
Where to Find It
Click Chat in the main navigation to open the Messages screen.
The Chat Interface
The chat screen is divided into two sections:
Conversation List (Left Sidebar)
- Shows all your conversations sorted by most recent activity.
- Each conversation shows the contact name, last message preview, timestamp, and unread count.
- Online status indicators show which team members are currently active (green dot = online).
- Use the search bar at the top to find conversations by name or message content.
Chat Window (Right Panel)
- Select any conversation from the list to open it.
- You can open up to 5 conversations simultaneously in separate panes.
- The active conversation is highlighted, and you can click between open panes to switch focus.
Start a New Conversation
- Click the New button at the top of the conversation list.
- In the modal, search for a team member by name or username.
- Select the person to start a direct message (DM).
- You can also create a Group or Channel for team-wide discussions.
- Start typing your message!
Sending Messages
Type your message in the input field at the bottom of the chat window and press Enter to send.
Message Features
| Feature | How to Use |
|---|---|
| Text Messages | Simply type and hit Enter |
| Attachments | Click the attachment icon to send files or images |
| Mentions | Type @ followed by a name to mention a team member |
| Forward Messages | Right-click or use the menu on a message to forward it to another conversation |
| Image Preview | Click on any shared image to view it in full-screen overlay |
Managing Conversations
View Chat Details
Click on the conversation header or the info icon to open the Chat Details Sidebar. This shows:
- Participant list with online/offline status
- Shared media and files
- Conversation settings
Close a Conversation Pane
Click the X button on any open chat pane, or press Escape to close the active pane.
Unread Messages
- Conversations with unread messages show an unread badge with the message count.
- Opening a conversation automatically marks it as read.
You’re all set!
You have successfully learned how to use Messages in Rentablez. Keep your team coordinated without leaving the platform.