Free-flow parking - a game changer

Boom-free parking, so-called free-flow parking, was introduced to the Swedish market a number of years ago. By utilizing Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), free-flow parking eliminates the need for paper tickets and manual logs, and creates a seamless and automated parking experience for land and property owners as well as motorists.

Free-flow parking with ANPR technology

One of the most crucial elements of free-flow parking is the use of ANPR technology, which stands for Automatic Number Plate Recognition. Through this technology, cameras can read license plates, convert it into text data and thus create a smooth and automated parking experience for all types of facilities.

Investing in free-flow parking not only positions you for efficient parking management, but also creates a modern and user-friendly environment for your visitors. This, in turn, can increase the attractiveness of your area and contribute to a positive experience for both you and your customers. 

As landowners and property owners, there are many reasons to consider investing in free-flow parking, or Grind & Garage as we call it, and we go through some of them below.

Automated parking process

Free-flow parking automates the entire parking process through ANPR technology, eliminating the need for paper tickets and manual entry and exit logs. Cameras detect the license plate when the vehicle enters the parking area or garage. Parking is automatically activated and terminated when the cameras detect the license plate again upon exit. 

This results in smoother entry and exit, reduced congestion and a much more efficient parking experience for both building owners and visitors/tenants.

Increased accessibility

By eliminating physical barriers such as barriers, free-flow parking increases the accessibility of parking lots and facilities. Visitors can now navigate through the parking area effortlessly and experience a freedom that was previously limited by traditional parking systems. 

This can increase the attractiveness of the area, creating a positive first impression for visitors. In the commercial landscape, free-flow parking thus becomes not only a technological advance but a strategic advantage for those striving to create more accessible and welcoming urban environments.

Lower maintenance costs

Traditional parking systems with physical barriers often require frequent inspections and repairs due to wear and technical issues. Free-flow parking transforms this dynamic by offering a fully automated process with no moving parts subject to wear and tear. This minimizes the risk of technical failures and significantly extends the lifetime of the parking system, resulting in cost savings in the long run and making the solution economically beneficial for parking operators.

Flexible payment options

By eliminating traditional ticketing systems, free-flow parking creates a platform for parking operators to implement varied pricing models, providing a unique and adaptable approach to maximizing revenue. This flexibility in pricing models is particularly valuable for parking operators who strive to offer customized rates for different customer groups. By adjusting prices based on usage patterns and preferences, parking facilities can become more attractive to different customer segments, increasing the overall use of the parking lots and thus also the revenue.

Eco-friendly and sustainable

Free-flow parking not only redefines the parking experience but also sets the direction towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly urban transport. By, among other things, eliminating traditional ticketing systems and thus reducing the use of paper, free-flow parking creates a significant positive environmental impact. With a seamless and automated parking process, the system also minimizes idle traffic, which in turn reduces CO2 emissions. 

By reducing the use of paper and minimizing traffic congestion, the system contributes to a more efficient and environmentally friendly management of parking flows in urban areas. This environmentally friendly approach, combined with the practical benefits of the technology, makes free-flow parking a significant player in the drive towards more sustainable urban transport and a more responsible society.

Getting started with free-flow parking

By investing in free-flow parking, you not only ensure efficient parking management, but also create a modern and user-friendly environment for your visitors. This, in turn, can increase the attractiveness of your area, reduce maintenance costs and increase your revenue.

To get started with free-flow parking, we suggest you do the following:

Research available technologies and suppliers

Start your journey towards free-flow parking by carefully researching the current technologies and identifying reliable suppliers. In particular, focus on partners specialized in ANPR technology and free-flow parking. By understanding the different aspects of the technology and evaluating the expertise of the suppliers, you will be able to make informed decisions that form the basis for a successful implementation. 

We at Parkit have extensive experience with this system, which we call Grind & Garage. HERE you can read more about what we offer in this area.

Communicate clearly with potential partners

The second step involves open and clear communication with potential partners. Discuss your specific requirements and budget to ensure they understand your needs. Strive to establish a mutual understanding to find the optimal combination of technology, payment solutions and management systems. This step is crucial to create a foundation for successful implementation and to ensure that the solution meets your goals and expectations.

Planning and installation for a smooth transition

Focus on careful planning and installation in collaboration with your partners. By working closely with them, you can ensure that both installation and integration are carried out smoothly and correctly. There are many players on the market - consider your choices carefully.

To summarize free-flow parking

Free-flow parking eliminates obstacles and thus congestion when entering and exiting parking areas. From the parkers' point of view, the system offers a very smooth and efficient ease of use. For you as a land or property owner, it means reduced operating costs due to the high degree of automation, increased revenue due to a higher turnover as a result of free access to the facility, convenience in payment and automatic 24/7 monitoring and enforcement.