Parking lots are broadly divided into two types: "coin parking" and "monthly parking."
Coin parking is a pay-per-use lot where you pay by the hour, making it convenient for short stays or parking while out. Monthly parking, on the other hand, involves paying a fixed monthly fee to rent a dedicated parking space, and is typically used for commuting or home use.
This article explains in detail the types and features of coin parking, how to use them, and the mechanisms and precautions surrounding maximum rates.

Types and Features of Coin Parking

Coin parking comes in several types depending on the installation method and payment system.

1. Lock Type

The most common type, in which a lock plate installed on the ground secures the vehicle's tires.

· How to use: When you park, the lock plate automatically rises, and after payment it lowers to allow exit.
· Features: Easy and intuitive to use, but the equipment presents a risk of malfunction.

2. Gate Type

A method where a gate is placed at the entrance and exit of the parking lot, and payment is made using a parking ticket issued upon entry.

· How to use: Receive a parking ticket upon entry and pay at the payment machine upon exit.
· Features: Easy to manage payments and entry/exit; commonly seen near commercial facilities.

3. Lockless Type

The latest method that monitors vehicles using cameras and sensors without installing lock plates or gates.

· How to use: The vehicle's license plate is recorded upon entry, and payment is made upon exit.
· Features: Less equipment and lower management costs, but caution is needed as it relies on the system.

4. Prepay Type

A method where you pay in advance for the intended parking duration at the time of parking.

· Features: No procedure needed upon exit, making it smooth. Convenient when you plan to park for a long time.

What Is a Maximum Rate?

Coin parking has a "maximum rate" system that reduces the financial burden for long-term parking.
The maximum rate is the upper limit fee beyond which no additional charges occur, no matter how long you park.

· Basic rate: The time-based charge (e.g., 300 yen per 30 minutes)
· Maximum rate: The capped fee applied when parking exceeds a certain duration (e.g., 1,500 yen for 24 hours)

For example, parking for 3 hours at a coin parking lot charging 300 yen per 30 minutes would normally cost 1,800 yen, but if the maximum rate is 1,500 yen, the amount you pay is capped at 1,500 yen.

Types of Maximum Rates

There are several types of maximum rates depending on how and under what conditions they are applied.

1. Repeatedly Applied Maximum Rate

A method where the maximum rate is reapplied at regular intervals even after it has been reached. You can park for extended periods without worry.

2. Time-Based Maximum Rate

Different maximum rates are set depending on the time of day or day of the week, such as daytime/nighttime or weekday/holiday.

· Example: Daytime 8:00–20:00 max 1,500 yen / Nighttime 20:00–8:00 max 700 yen

3. One-Time Maximum Rate

The maximum rate applies only for a certain period after entry; once that period is exceeded, regular charges are added.
· Note: Parking for an extended time may result in unexpectedly high charges.

Benefits of Maximum Rates

1. Keep costs down even for long-term parking
2. Predict parking costs in advance
3. Park with peace of mind without worrying about high charges

Especially for extended parking or visits to commercial facilities, having a maximum rate lets you park without concern.

Precautions for Maximum Rates

· It is important to confirm whether the maximum rate is applied repeatedly. If it is not, additional charges will occur for extended parking.
· When parking overnight, additional charges for the next day may apply depending on the daily maximum rate setting.
· If you plan to park a second day, check the conditions for maximum rate application and, if necessary, exit and re-enter to keep costs down.

Our Coin Parking Management Support

Coin parking is a convenient service with high demand, making it a viable business to start.
We recommend operating through a "lump-sum lease method."

Benefits of the Lump-Sum Lease Method

1. Reduced risk of initial costs
2. Stable income regardless of parking lot occupancy rate
3. No need to handle complaints or manage equipment
4. Flexible support for short-term and long-term contracts

Land owners simply entrust operations to the management company and can earn stable income without any hassle.

By understanding the types and pricing structures of coin parking, it becomes an extremely convenient and cost-effective parking option. From a management perspective as well, utilizing the maximum rate system and lump-sum lease method enables smooth and worry-free operation.