Is ANPR Expensive? 3 Common Myths About ANPR
ANPR has a reputation for being expensive and only suitable for visitor parking in large garages. Today the cameras cost significantly less than when the technology first arrived, and ANPR works for both visitor and contract parking, in garages and in surface car parks. Here we go through three common myths about ANPR and what actually applies.
Want to know how the technology works first? Read everything you need to know about ANPR.
Is ANPR expensive?
ANPR requires an investment. When the technology was new, the cameras were significantly more expensive, and that is where the myth comes from. Around 2021, an ANPR camera cost about SEK 35,000. Since then, prices have fallen considerably, and today an ANPR camera costs about SEK 20,000–25,000. More advanced models cost significantly more, but the most important thing is not to have the most advanced camera. It is the system behind it that determines who should pay what and gives you data on how the facility is used. Usually two cameras are needed per entrance and exit, one reading the number plate from the front and one from the back.
In addition to the cost of the camera itself, there are costs for installation, licences and preparing the facility, such as electricity and networking. Installation can be a larger cost, and the size of the investment depends on how many cameras are needed and how much needs to be built. If you already have ANPR cameras, you can probably keep them, as ANPR46 supports several different manufacturers. Read what to consider when choosing an ANPR system.
In our experience, it is above all the increased revenue that makes the investment profitable, more than the lower costs of hardware and parking attendants.
- Revenue increases, because more of those who park are registered and charged, both contract customers and visitors.
- Running costs fall, because the need for parking attendants is reduced.
- The cameras show exactly how the facility is used hour by hour, and you can use that data to develop your parking business.
“It is an investment, but it is definitely a worthwhile one.” – Pelle Sjögren, co-founder, Mobility46
Read how camera-based parking increases profitability.
Is ANPR only for visitor parking?
No, ANPR works for both visitor and contract parking. You get the best results and the best customer experience in facilities that have both.
If a customer with a parking permit stays beyond their contract time, the cameras register it. Instead of the customer risking a parking fine and you losing revenue, the extra time is charged at the visitor rate. It is added automatically to the regular monthly invoice, with no manual work for either you or the customer.
Read about five benefits of ANPR cameras in your parking facility.
Does ANPR only work in garages?
No, ANPR can be installed both in garages and in outdoor surface car parks. What is required is a clear entrance and exit, as that is where the cameras are mounted to register the vehicles. The cameras have a small hood that protects the lens from snow.
Does there need to be a barrier or gate? Read when free flow parking works.
Read more about our camera-based parking system ANPR46.
Want to know more about our camera-based parking system?
With ANPR46, you gain full control over both contract customers and visitors — while reducing administration, improving the customer experience and maximizing occupancy in your parking facilities.
