Parking management is often overlooked by property managers. However, this one area can transform the way people experience your commercial or residential property. The parking experience is the first contact that customers and visitors have with your property. Improved parking can enhance visitors’ overall experience, and in the case of retail properties, their inclination to stay longer and spend more. Consider your needs carefully to determine whether onsite or offsite valet parking best meets your needs.
Onsite vs. Offsite Valet Parking: 3 Factors to Consider
Factor #1: Available Space
When deciding on whether to use onsite vs. offsite valet parking, you need to consider the available space. Do you have a large parking lot available within easy reach of your building? Or are you limited to just a handful of spaces?
The beauty of valet parking services is that your customers will enjoy the same experience, whether you’re parking their cars a few feet away or on the next block. The only way to use onsite valet parking successfully is with a sizable lot located adjacent to your building. Offsite parking, on the other hand, opens up a wealth of possibilities.
Factor #2: Valet Parking Logistics
If you don’t have access to a lot immediately adjacent to your building, any parking that you choose is something of an inconvenience to your customers when they self-park. Consider investing in quality valet parking services combined with a more affordable lot that’s a bit farther from the building.
The convenience afforded by the valet service will more than offset the distance of the lot. In fact, customers may have no idea how far it is from the door to the offsite valet parking lot. They’ll never have to worry about making that walk.
Factor #3: Staffing Considerations
If you’re using an offsite valet parking service, you’ll typically need a larger staff to coordinate your efforts. The farther each car must go, the longer it will take your valets to perform each job. To keep costs down your valet staff should be utilizing text valet technology to ensure no wait time for customers and the ability to staff fewer attendants.
If you have a limited staffing budget and access to a moderately sized lot near your venue, onsite valet parking may better suit your needs. You can also consider a combination of onsite and offsite valet parking, using the offsite services only for larger events where you’ll need the additional space.
Custom Valet Parking Solutions for Atlanta Properties
The debate between onsite vs. offsite valet parking is a complex one. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer that will suit every business. But with careful consideration of your customer flow, property layout, and budget, you can pinpoint the best option for your needs.
At National parking, we specialize in evaluating and customizing the right parking solution for our clients. Call us today at 678-356-4030 or request a proposal online to get started planning a custom onsite or offsite valet parking program.
