I really never gave it much thought, but now that I have, I agree with you. In some properties I imagine they might do just as happened to you - a switch.

It certainly does lessen the value of using 1800CI, as I have used it on holiday weekends early in the day to ensure getting a decent room because I'm arriving late.

But, I can also say that I've only received a room number about 50% of the time when using the servcie. I never paid much attention, but I will in the future.