Parking ticket machines have become commonplace in car parks. By using advanced technologies, these machines are designed to automate parking services, a feature that brings several benefits. For one, automated parking allows the efficient management of parking space, a daily struggle for most operators. With the number of people using private means of transport in the UK, finding a place to park can be a nightmare, especially in cities.
The proper management of these spaces makes it less challenging to provide quality services to vehicle owners. It also allows the full utilisation of these spaces, which can be taxing when there is no pattern to follow. Apart from pay and display car parks, these machines are suitable for hospitals, airports, supermarkets and other commercial areas.
Multiple Payment Options
Perhaps the biggest advantage that automation of parking ticketing has brought about is the payment method. The technologically advanced ticket machines make it possible to pay using several means. These options reduce the problem of queuing at car parks waiting for users to find enough change.
Some machines still allow the use of coins for payment, a method that has been in use for ages. Users just have to insert coins into a slot on the machine and print their ticket. The simple instructions that come with these machines make that an easy task to carry out. Due to the availability of other payment methods, parking machines do not have to be emptied as regularly as conventional roadside parking metres.
Another payment option that a vehicle owner has is through mobile devices. By using a mobile payment number usually displayed on a machine, a patron of a car park can make payments through their mobile devices. In a world where everything is at the touch of a screen, it is only right that car ticketing is as convenient.
Some smart ticketing machines have a feature that alerts a vehicle owner when the parking is about to expire. It is also possible to use one account for machines of the same vendor across the UK. With features like these, vehicle owners receive services that are fast and reliable as well.
Modern parking entry and exit ticket machines allow the use of credit cards for payment as well. The revolutionary improvements that ticketing machines have gone through over the years make it possible to utilise different types of cards. A majority of people move around with credit cards rather than cash and having that payment option when in a car park makes for a relatively painless process.
Information Systems
A comprehensive information system is another feature users can expect from smart parking ticket machines. This system may be for a whole city only or specific parking facility. Whatever the case, there is an upside to such services. It makes it easier for vehicle owners to find vacant parking spots on car lots, thus saving time. There is also less risk of committing parking violations when you know in advance where you are going to park.
Parking Regulations
Pay and display machines have become quite popular across the UK. Car operators and private parking owners should understand that there are rules that govern the use of these machines. Vehicle owners have had problems of getting fined without even knowing they had incurred penalties. Operators should ensure that the parking regulations are clear for drivers to avoid these issues. Signs and ground markings should be visible for all to see.
Drivers should learn their rights when it comes to using pay and display car parks. For example, In England and Wales, the vehicle owner is the one liable for parking costs as opposed to the driver. However, when driving a hired car, the driver is liable for the costs as per the hire agreement.
Ticketing machines should also adhere to government regulations regarding payment processes. Users must have safe, reliable and convenient ways of making payments. Alternatives such as online payments and credit cards make most users wary because they have to give personal information. By sticking to established standards, operators can make drivers feel more at ease.
Integrating a parking ticket machine comes with many advantages for your businesses. Whatever the requirements, an automated car park ticketing system allows you to manage a garage with more efficiency.