Have you ever felt the frustration of getting a parking ticket when you thought you parked legally? This blog post will explore the ins and outs of the parking lot design and ticket system, shedding light on why parking lot design plays a critical role in avoiding costly citations. Understanding how this system works can help you avoid pesky infractions and make your parking experience hassle-free. Let's dive in!
What Is a Parking Ticket System?
A car park ticket system is a device used in car parks to manage the process of issuing tickets and often collecting payments from motorists. When a vehicle enters the car park, a machine typically dispenses a ticket to the driver. This ticket usually has a timestamp that indicates when the vehicle entered the facility.
When leaving the car park, the driver will either pay at the machine by inserting the ticket and making a payment or take the ticket to a payment kiosk to settle the parking charges based on the amount of time spent in the car park. Some modern ticket machines also offer contactless payment options and mobile app integrations for added convenience. These machines help automate the process, making it easier to manage the car park and ensure parking charges are accurately and efficiently collected.
5 Types of Parking Ticket Systems
1. Ticket or Card Dispenser/Reader
At the entry point, the machine generates a ticket or card with the press of a button. Record of the vehicle’s time of entry may be done via a visible timestamp, QR code or barcode, or digitally stored via the card’s magnetic strip. At the exit, the barrier will open when the user inserts a card into a machine or a sensor scans the ticket. This system works best for commercial parking operations, such as at the mall, airport, or city centers, where anyone can use the car park with a corresponding parking fee.
2. RFID Sensors
An RFID card, sticker, or key fob is scanned at the entrance to open the barrier gates. The unique ID contained in each RFID tool helps identify the user and monitors his ins and outs in the car park. This is a contactless and convenient option that requires just a few quick seconds to activate access.
Shared or lost RFID cards or key fobs can post security problems for the property. Tech crimes related to the copying of the unique codes inside the cards or fobs are also becoming more prevalent in recent years. This system is usually adapted in car parks where there are permitted regular users, such as office, residential, or membership clubs car parks.
3. PIN Code Reader
Users gain access to the parking lot when they enter a passcode in a pin pad reader at the entry point. Though cost-efficient, this is not a very popular option among car park operators due to several issues:
It is easy to share the passcode to others. Users may tend to forget the passcode, especially if it is changed often
Gaining access may take longer due to the act of entering a 4 or 6-digit pin code, leading to bottlenecks during peak hours.
They can work in car parks where there are specific users, such as those in offices, residential properties, or membership clubs.
4. License Plate Recognition (LPR) Camera
This can be used alone or integrated with another entry system to provide quick multi-factor authentication. LPR cameras can address some of the issues associated with the passing of key cards, fobs, or PIN codes between users and catch the unauthorized duplication of RFID codes. With the use of an LPR camera, quick access can be given to vehicles bearing a license plate that has been registered in the system. LPR cameras can be used in all kinds of parking lot operations.
5. Mobile Phone-Based Access System
Mobile phones are quickly becoming our most versatile tool in automating everything we need in our day-to-day lives, including unlocking access to car parks or other facilities. This is a contactless and convenient option, especially since people usually have their smartphones with them at all times. Mobile phone-based access systems can be used in car parks where there are permitted regular users, such as the office parking lot, residential complexes, or membership clubs.
9 Benefits of Installing A Parking Ticket System
1. Keeps Parking Spaces Available for Genuine Customers
Adding a modest hourly charge for parking helps discourage unauthorized parking. When parking isn’t free, customers think twice about overstaying. Without a parking ticket machine, people might leave their cars for a long time, taking up spaces that paying customers could use. A smart ticketing system keeps track of available spaces and ensures that your car park isn’t misused.
2. Consistent Revenue Generation
Parking ticket machines are excellent revenue generators. By integrating these machines with advanced technology like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), you can monitor usage and optimize revenue without needing on-site staff. This technology does the heavy lifting for you, keeping an eye on the car park and ensuring everything’s ticking over nicely.
3. Efficient Use of Parking Space
It’s frustrating to see empty slots in a car park while people are circling around looking for a place to park. Sometimes, this is because people aren’t aware of the available spaces, or perhaps some are taking advantage of the absence of a proper system. Parking ticket machines provide real-time information on space availability, ensuring maximum occupancy and efficient use of your valuable real estate.
4. Pinpoint Accuracy Ensures Fairness
Parking ticket machines are designed to eliminate unfair parking charges. They are rigorously tested to ensure accuracy in billing. That means no more overcharging and an overall happier customer base, which is always good for business.
5. Payment Flexibility for Everyone
Parking ticket machines offer various payment options. Whether it’s coins, cards, or even digital wallets, these machines can handle it all, making the payment process a breeze for your customers.
6. Valuable Data and Insights
Your parking ticket machine can offer insights into customer behavior, such as the average duration of a parking session or peak parking hours. The data collected can provide answers to help fine-tune your operations for maximum profitability.
7. Boosts Your Overall Business
A well-managed car park can boost your overall business sales. Knowing the average parking time can give you insights into customer spending habits, enabling better business decisions. Keeping your car park running smoothly makes you more likely to attract and retain customers.
8. Durable and User-Friendly
Parking ticket machines are durable and require minimal maintenance, ensuring a long lifespan. With easy-to-understand interfaces, they are user-friendly, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
9. Cost-Effective Solution
Given their durability, low maintenance, and added value, parking ticket machines are a cost-effective investment for any car park. You get a multifunctional tool that streamlines your operations, increases revenue, and improves customer satisfaction.
Transforming Parking Management with Parqour's Comprehensive Platform
Parqour is a software platform that simplifies parking operations and improves the customer experience. It offers real-time data, automated plate recognition, and contactless payments. We operate in more than 22 countries, 300+ parking areas, and have detected over 100M+ vehicles.
Parqour offers a comprehensive end-to-end management platform to increase revenue, reduce operational cost, and enhance transparency. Say goodbye to piecing together different vendors and integrations. No need to spend huge capital on bulky hardware. Control all operations from one platform. Contactless parking and online payment methods make the parking experience easier for your customers too.
The end result is:
Higher utilization and lower operating costs
99,6% license plate recognition rate
Online QR payment & 3rd party APIs (integrated with Parkmobile, SpotHero, Honk, PayByPhone)
Data analytics (real-time occupancy, revenue, utilization, parking trends)
Validation and permit management (free flow access for approved drivers)
24/7 remote control system
Hardware with zero upfront costs
Zoning and violation detection (control POD, VIP and nested zones), and much more!
To keep track of the vehicles entering and exiting a parking lot or garage, parking ticket systems rely on accurate monitoring and recording. At the entry and exit gates, sensors are commonly used to track vehicle traffic and record data.
Some systems may also incorporate additional monitoring devices within the facility to ensure comprehensive coverage. This ensures that there is accurate information about the type and number of vehicles moving in and out of the parking area.
Tech Integration with the Payment Machine
In modern parking systems, the integration of technology and payment machines is crucial for efficiency. Parking payment machines now often come equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems. This advanced feature automates the payment process and simplifies the validation of parking tickets.
By quickly accessing critical vehicle information like license plate, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and the car's make and color, operators can cross-reference data and validate parking tickets expeditiously.
Allocating Parking Spots
Parking management is a complex operation that can benefit significantly from technology. Whether the parking lot is continuously operated or only during peak hours, effective management of parking spots and monitoring of parked vehicles is a challenging task. To handle this efficiently, many parking facilities partner with professional parking management companies.
These companies utilize smart parking solutions, such as parking payment machines, to optimize parking operations. These solutions streamline parking ticketing, make it easier for drivers to locate available parking spaces, and enhance overall parking lot security.
How You Can Use a Parking Payment Machine
Parking payment machines offer users a straightforward experience for paying for parking. While there is a variety of options available, most parking payment terminals share common features. Users typically select the duration they plan to leave their vehicle parked, choose a payment method, complete the payment, and receive a parking ticket.
Some machines even offer e-tickets, eliminating the need for physical parking tickets and promoting sustainability by reducing paper usage. Using a parking payment machine is a user-friendly process that enhances the overall parking experience.
12 Best Parking Ticket System Providers
1. Parqour
Parqour is a software platform that simplifies parking operations and improves the customer experience. It offers real-time data, automated plate recognition, and contactless payments. We operate in more than 22 countries, 300+ parking areas, and have detected over 100M+ vehicles.
Parqour offers a comprehensive end-to-end management platform to increase revenue, reduce operational cost, and enhance transparency. Say goodbye to piecing together different vendors and integrations. No need to spend huge capital on bulky hardware. Control all operations from one platform. Contactless parking and online payment methods make the parking experience easier for your customers too.
The end result is:
Higher utilization and lower operating costs
99,6% license plate recognition rate
Online QR payment & 3rd party APIs (integrated with Parkmobile, SpotHero, Honk, PayByPhone)
Data analytics (real-time occupancy, revenue, utilization, parking trends)
Validation and permit management (free flow access for approved drivers)
24/7 remote control system
Hardware with zero upfront costs
Zoning and violation detection (control POD, VIP and nested zones), and much more!
ParkHub is a robust parking payment system that offers several advantages. One of its key strengths is efficiency. ParkHub streamlines the parking payment process, reducing wait times, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
ParkHub excels in providing valuable analytics, helping businesses optimize their parking operations and understand customer behavior. Parkhub supports mobile payments, catering to the growing demand for contactless transactions. Its scalability makes it adaptable to various industries, from sports stadiums to commercial parking decks.
3. ParkMobile
ParkMobile uses its ParkMobile app to allow customers to easily find and pay for parking spots, reducing the hassle of traditional parking meters. The system allows users to reserve parking spots in advance, extend parking sessions remotely, and receive alerts when time is about to expire. ParkMobile integrates with existing parking infrastructure and businesses while providing access to data and reporting tools.
4. ParqEx
ParqEx offers parking solutions aimed at residential and commercial properties. Its shared parking feature allows property owners to monetize their unused parking spaces. This benefits property owners while fostering a sense of community among residents and tenants.
ParqEx also provides booking flexibility, enabling users to reserve parking spots in advance. This feature means that ParEx may not be suitable for businesses without available parking spaces to share.
5. Passport
Passport supports contactless payments through mobile apps with customization options that allow businesses to tailor the platform to match their brand and requirements. Passport goes beyond payments, offering a range of parking solutions, including enforcement and permit management.
Passport is appropriate for municipalities, universities, and private parking operators seeking a comprehensive parking management solution. Passport typically offers custom pricing based on the specific needs of the business.
6. Parking BOXX
Parking BOXX offers a range of parking equipment, from pay stations to access control systems. Parking BOXX offers choice and scalability, accommodating both small lots and large, complex parking facilities.
The system integrates with various parking management software. Parking BOXX is suitable for properties such as airports, hospitals, shopping centers, and commercial facilities. Parking BOXX can be a significant investment for businesses, and cost may be a consideration.
7. Parklio
Parklio™ Parking Management System (PMS) is a customizable cloud-based solution with global deployment. This means it can be implemented worldwide and provides scalable, user-friendly parking operation management. It enables you to remotely manage various lot locations. Through a wide-functionality-range interface, you receive dependable control and administration of parking spaces and Parklio™ Parking Protection Products.
8. Skidata
Skidata's parking management software is a comprehensive system for managing parking facilities. It is designed to help monitor and control car park access both locally and remotely. The program can be used to optimize work processes and provide timely and professional customer service.
With the Skidata parking management system, one can handle the cash payments, access to all data such as turnover and the number of parking customers, as well as individualize the dashboards to match the specific requirements. It's also simple to use due to its flexibility in setup and modification.
9. Swarco
Swarco focuses on real-time video monitoring and digital key sharing/blocking. It’s a robust system for parking management.
10. HUB Parking
HUB Parking provides an API for integration and customizable solutions. It’s adaptable to various parking scenarios.
11. Designa
Designa focuses on zone management, tariff management, and customizable solutions. It’s suitable for both municipal parking authorities and private operators.
12. Flowbird
Flowbird emphasizes ease of use and digital payment options. It’s a great choice for enhancing customer experience.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Parking Ticket Machine
1. Parking Prices
Parking prices vary from machine to machine. They can be determined in various ways, depending on the machine you choose. Some popular ones are:
Parking ticket machines with a fixed rate per minute multiplied by the duration of stay.
Parking ticket machines with rates depending on the size of the vehicle and the length of stay.
Parking ticket machines that charge according to the rush hours; that is, high rates when jammed and lower rates when less busy.
2. Payment Options
Unlike the conventional parking machines that only accept coin payments, modern machines offer flexibility in payment options. Customers can either pay using a credit or debit card, dollar bills, mobile application, or with a single tap contact payment. So, no more stocking up your pockets with quarters!
3. Timing of Payment
Parking ticket machines have distinct systems allowing customers to pay either at entry or exit.
Pay-on-foot parking machines refer to gated ticket machines that require the customers to pay when exiting the parking lot.
Pay-on-display parking machines require you to pay for your ticket before entering the lot and displaying it on your car's windshield throughout the parking period.
A clear design and layout of the parking ticket machine improve the parking experience for your customers and can even turn them into regulars!
Are the buttons of your parking machine large and readable enough for anyone to use?
Are the instructions only depicted in the text, or does the machine employ user-friendly icons and pictograms?
Is it easy to recognize the coin acceptor at first glance?
5. Fixed or Handheld
The basic distinction between anything is whether it is stationary or mobile.
Conventional fixed parking machines cut down on the cost of labor, but the modern handheld ones have the upper hand.
They facilitate contactless ticketing and are less prone to theft and breaking, resulting in better revenue generation.
6. Maintenance and Service
With time, your parking machine will go through many phases of wear and tear. Therefore, it is essential to opt for one that is more durable and immune to these setbacks, resulting in low maintenance costs and high remunerations.
7. Go for a Trusted Brand
When selecting a company to get your parking ticket machine from, you must choose wisely.
Go over the brand’s and product’s reviews to get a solid verification of the quality of your parking machine.
A trusted brand will provide its customers with introductory hardware training, around-the-clock customer assistance, and a long-term warranty.
Simplify Your Parking Operations and Improve Your Customer Experience with Parqour -Book A Free Demo Today
Parqour is a game-changer in the parking industry, offering a plethora of benefits for both parking operators and customers. Our cutting-edge software platform simplifies parking operations and enhances the overall customer experience. With Parqour, you gain access to real-time data, automated plate recognition, and contactless payment options. This sophisticated system is currently operating in over 22 countries, covering more than 300 parking areas, and has successfully detected over 100 million vehicles.
End-to-End Management Platform
Our end-to-end management platform is designed to streamline your parking operations comprehensively. Say goodbye to the hassle of piecing together different vendors and integrations. With Parqour, you can control all your parking operations from a single, user-friendly platform. There's no need to invest heavily in bulky hardware, as our system offers hardware with zero upfront costs.
Contactless Payments and Online Payment Methods
Making the payment process easy and convenient is at the core of what we do. Parqour offers contactless parking and online payment methods, ensuring a hassle-free experience for your customers. By simplifying the payment process, we help boost utilization rates and reduce operating costs for parking operators.
License Plate Recognition and Data Analytics
Our system boasts an impressive 99.6% license plate recognition rate, ensuring accurate and efficient identification of vehicles. Parqour provides valuable data analytics, offering real-time insights into occupancy, revenue, utilization, and parking trends. This data-driven approach empowers parking operators to make informed decisions and optimize their parking operations.
Validation and Permit Management
With Parqour, managing validations and permits becomes a breeze. Our system allows for free flow access for approved drivers, streamlining the process and enhancing the overall parking experience. By providing efficient validation and permit management capabilities, Parqour ensures smooth operations and customer satisfaction.
Remote Control System and Zoning
Our 24/7 remote control system gives parking operators peace of mind, allowing them to monitor and manage their parking operations from anywhere. Parqour also offers zoning and violation detection features, enabling operators to control POD, VIP, and nested zones effectively. By leveraging these capabilities, operators can enhance security, optimize utilization, and improve overall operational efficiency.
Seamless Integration and API Support
Parqour is designed to seamlessly integrate with third-party platforms and APIs, including Parkmobile, SpotHero, Honk, and PayByPhone. This integration capability enables parking operators to expand their reach, offer more payment options, and enhance the overall customer experience. By leveraging these integrations, operators can tap into new markets and grow their revenue streams.
Book a Free Demo with Parqour
Ready to take your parking operation to the next level? Book a free demo with Parqour today and discover how our innovative platform can transform your parking operations. Say goodbye to complex integrations, bulky hardware, and operational inefficiencies.