Using the branded gift card is highly recommended. You'll always get that receipt unless its out of paper or jammed, which avoids having to ask the clerk for that small amount gas receipt after you ask for your small amount purchase receipt. Average shop time for me is 8-12 minutes, depending on if there is bathroom and there is no "customer interference" (long lines, someone in the bathroom at first, etc). Once you have done a station multiple times, you generally know where to look when looking for issues.
A little thing I like to do on this shop is if there is another customer in the store nearing the counter, or looks like they may be at the counter soon, I will delay to be right in front of them. That way, the clerk is focused on that customer, while I am taking a picture of their missing squeegee and rusty island curb, reducing the chances of them knowing you were taking those pictures. I also usually size up the station while pumping: letting the small required amount of gas pump slowly while I get a look at where pictures may need to be taken. That way, when I am out of the store, I am going right to those spots, then leaving (to drive across the street for the exterior).
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10/08/2017 02:26PM by tcurione.