Choosing the right parking machine is the first step toward creating an efficient and secure parking operation. Whether you require a system with barrier gates for controlled entry and exit or a walk-up machine for open lot payment, the ideal solution depends on your facility’s layout, traffic volume, and revenue goals.

From simple flat-rate configurations to full-featured time-based systems with ticketing and access control, modern parking machines can be tailored to match your operational needs while ensuring accurate payment processing and smooth vehicle flow.

Looking for a Parking Machine With -OR- Without Barrier Gates

Typically, the very first issue to be resolved regarding a Parking Machine inquiry is are you looking for Parking Machines - with OR without Parking Lot Gates. If you aren't familiar with both systems, we provide a quick summary below. Here is a more detailed parking system comparison. And if you are focusing mostly on parking system staffing costs, we provide more detail for that analysis as well!

Parking Machines WithOUT Barrier Gates

Parking Payment Machines WITH Barrier Gates

Parking systems with barrier gates control ingress and egress for a parking lot. A Flat-Rate Parking System is the most basic starting system. This involves a flat-rate payment on entry OR exit. If there were two laneways (i.e. one Entry Lane + one Exit Lane), then only one lane would require a parking payment machine. The other lane would have a barrier gate that detects the presence of a vehicle, which opens the gate or a “free” in/out gate. This second gate prevents vehicles from driving out the wrong way and avoiding payment.

If you wish to charge for parking based on time in the lot (rather than a flat rate regardless of parked in the lot), then a Full-Featured Parking System is what you’re looking for. This type of system prints a ticket upon Entry, then at Exit a parking fee is charged based on the time spent in the lot. The Full-Featured System can incorporate unattended parking machine payments, attended parking machine payments, intercoms, access cards, validations, parking reservations, and many other features.



Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is A Parking Machine?

A parking machine is an automated payment system that allows drivers to pay for parking using various methods such as credit cards, cash, or mobile payments. It can operate as a walk-up payment station or as part of a gated entry and exit system.

2. Do I Need Barrier Gates With My Parking Machine?

Not necessarily. Parking machines can operate with or without barrier gates. Gated systems provide controlled access, while non-gated systems rely on enforcement methods such as Pay & Display or Pay By License.

3. Which Parking Machine System Is More Secure?

Parking machines integrated with barrier gates are generally more secure because vehicles cannot exit without completing payment or presenting authorized credentials.

4. Can Parking Machines Accept Credit Cards?

Yes. Most modern parking machines support credit and debit card payments, and many also accept cash, coins, coupons, or contactless payments depending on configuration.

5. What Is The Difference Between A Parking Machine With And Without Barrier Gates?

Machines without barrier gates allow drivers to park first and then pay, relying on enforcement for compliance. Systems with barrier gates control entry and exit, ensuring payment is completed before vehicles leave.

6. Are Parking Machines Suitable For Small Parking Lots?

Yes. Parking machines are scalable and can be configured for small surface lots, event parking, or larger multi-lane facilities depending on operational needs..