There is a wide array of options in the world of automated parking solutions, each beneficial in its unique way. If you ask us, puzzle parking and stack parking are two solutions that always stand out in an ocean of other parking solutions. They’re both innovative, unique, and creative.
For this reason, people often make the mistake of thinking stack and puzzle car parking systems are interchangeable, but this isn’t the case. Let us walk you through these parking solutions individually. We’ll cover their benefits, disadvantages, and the primary differences between the two. When the time comes, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What Is a Puzzle Parking System?
We’ll start by talking about what constitutes a puzzle parking system. A puzzle parking system is a structure designed with multiple platforms. These platforms are where patrons using the system park their cars. From there, the puzzle system shuffles these platforms, moving the parked vehicles to a space where patrons can retrieve them later.
These parking structures are unique in that they have full directional mobility. They can move side-to-side as well as up and down. The varied movements of these structures are what give them their whimsical name. Additionally, puzzle parking structures are semi-automatic, meaning patrons must still drive in and out of their mechanical platforms.
What Are the Benefits?
As you can imagine, these unique parking structures come with a list of benefits for businesses, hotels, airports, and other types of developments that use them. Some of the most prominent advantages of these systems include:
#1. Multiple Entry Points
Puzzle car parking systems allow patrons to enter a structure from various entry points rather than just one or two primary entrances. As a result, you provide patrons with an easily accessible parking solution. Plus, multiple entry points reduce the time patrons typically spend driving around looking for a space.
#2. Increase in Available Parking
More available parking is undoubtedly a benefit of puzzle parking. These systems have full mobility in all directions, which means that—unless your entire puzzle structure is jam-packed—there will almost always be convenient and available parking for your patrons.
Moreover, these systems can create more parking without the need to interfere with the current structure of your parking garage or lot.
#3. Money Saving and Maintenance
Convenience and an increase in available parking are only part of the equation. Puzzle systems are also incredibly cost-effective long-term. This is partly due to their ability to expand a parking structure without developing land or reconstructing an existing design.
But puzzle parking systems are also budget-friendly because they require little maintenance. This is not to say there isn’t any upkeep involved. But in comparison to other systems on the market, the maintenance schedule for a puzzle parking system is relatively simple.
What Are the Disadvantages?
Like anything else in this world, puzzle parking systems also come with a few disadvantages, including:
Customer unfamiliarity: Puzzle parking systems aren’t always intuitive for customers, which can sometimes cause confusion.
Need for extra lighting: For these systems to function optimally, they need to be well-lit. This may result in extra costs in energy bills and lighting investments.
Initial purchase costs: While they’re quite budget-friendly in the long run, puzzle parking systems typically cost a pretty penny upfront. Ensure you’re ready for the investment before you buy.
But the list of cons is still relatively small. Plus, if you know about these things ahead of time, you’ll be more prepared to manage them to get the most out of your investment.
What Is a Stack Parking System?
Now that we know the ins and outs of puzzle parking, it’s time to discuss stack parking systems. Stackers are another type of parking solution. They are mechanical structures with parking platforms attached. Depending on how many additional parking spaces your development needs, you can purchase stacker lifts in various sizes and capacities.
Like the puzzle car parking systems, patrons will drive their vehicles onto a platform and park them. Once that part of the process is complete, the stacker will lift the car vertically and secure it above the ground. Stacker systems typically park cars vertically atop one another, hence the name.
What Are the Benefits?
Stacker parking systems also have many advantages for those who implement them in their structures. Many of them are akin to the benefits of puzzle parking systems. But there are a few benefits that make stackers more distinct, such as:
#1. Streamlined Flow of Traffic
Stacker parking systems ensure there is ample parking within a structure. This means patrons don’t have to spend as much time searching for a spot as they would in traditional garages or lots. As a result, there’s less traffic congestion in your parking structure.
The traffic that does exist is far more streamlined and easier to manage. This also enhances safety through the reduction of accidents and vehicle collisions.
#2. Less Pollution
An increase in parking capacity also means less strain on the environment. A lack of available parking—especially in sprawling metropolitan areas—results in a lot of preventable pollution.
With stacker parking solutions, drivers don’t have to spend heinous amounts of time driving around looking for a spot. In turn, their gas and pollution emissions are significantly reduced.
#3. Increased Property Value
Stacker parking systems can also increase property value, especially if you own or manage a multi-family residence. Believe it or not, various multi-family residences do not prioritize adequate parking for their tenants.
But those who live in these complexes know how irritating it can be to spend an extra 15 or 20 minutes looking for parking. So when you offer an option like stacker parking that eliminates that issue, it makes your entire property more appealing to prospective tenants. Thus, your property value will likely increase.
What Are the Disadvantages?
Of course, this wouldn’t be a balanced discussion if we didn’t mention some of the disadvantages of stacker parking systems.
Installation and construction: Construction can be time-consuming and pricey.
There is red tape attached: It might take time to get approval for system implementation.
Initial costs can be steep: These systems cost a significant amount of money upfront.
Despite these minimal downsides, we still think stacker car systems are an excellent addition to any building looking for an innovative parking solution. Just be aware that they’re an investment of your time, money, and effort.
What’s the Difference Between the Two?
As you can see, puzzle parking and stacker parking systems are very similar. With that said, they also share some distinctions. For instance, stackers typically only stack cars upward and vertically. Puzzle parking systems can shift their platforms vertically and horizontally in most directions.
But truthfully, it isn’t about the specific differences between these parking solutions. It’s about which system is better suited to meet the unique needs of your parking structure.
