Apcoa.no Reviews

Based on looking at the website apcoa.no, it appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive platform for managing parking services across Norway.

The site provides a direct solution for finding, booking, and paying for parking, utilizing technologies like license plate recognition for a seamless experience.

It offers various payment methods, including a dedicated mobile app and web-based options, aiming to simplify urban mobility for its users.

The website emphasizes convenience, offering services like long-term parking rentals and airport booking, alongside a notable environmental discount for electric vehicles.

This focus on practical, everyday solutions aligns well with the needs of individuals navigating urban environments, providing a clear value proposition for users seeking efficient parking management.

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IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Navigating the Parking Landscape: An Apcoa.no Review & First Look

When it comes to urban mobility, finding reliable parking can often feel like navigating a maze.

Apcoa.no steps in as a key player in Norway’s parking solutions, offering a digital gateway to over 1200 parking areas nationwide.

From a first glance, the website presents a clean, intuitive interface designed to streamline the parking process.

It’s clear that the platform is built with user convenience in mind, aiming to simplify what can often be a frustrating experience.

User Interface and Initial Impressions

The landing page of apcoa.no immediately highlights its core services: “Søk og finn parkering” Search and find parking and various payment options. Storkz.com Reviews

The visual layout is uncluttered, making it easy to spot key features like the search bar for parking areas and direct links to payment portals.

The use of clear, concise language primarily Norwegian, given its target audience ensures that users can quickly grasp the functionalities.

Core Value Proposition

Understanding Apcoa.no’s Key Features

Apcoa.no distinguishes itself through a suite of features designed to cater to various parking needs, from short-term stops to long-term rentals.

The integration of modern technology like license plate recognition is a standout, transforming the parking experience from a manual task into an automated process.

License Plate Recognition Skiltgjenkjenning

This feature is a must. Brytor.ca Reviews

As stated on the website, “Ved skiltgjenkjenning starter og stopper parkeringen automatisk ved inn- og utkjøringen.” This means:

• Automatic Start/Stop: No need to pull tickets or manually start a timer.
• Seamless Entry/Exit: Reduces queues and improves traffic flow.
• Reduced Stress: Users can focus on their destination rather than parking logistics.

Payment Flexibility and Options

Apcoa.no offers multiple ways to pay, catering to different user preferences:

• APCOA FLOW Mobile App: This is their recommended solution. Users can register a profile, enable “autotrekk” for automatic payments, and even pay within 48 hours of exiting. The app is available on App Store and Google Play.
• Vipps Integration: A recent addition, allowing for “Enkel registrering og betaling med Vipps,” which is a popular mobile payment service in Norway, further simplifying transactions.
• Payment Machine Automat: Traditional option for those who prefer physical payment upon departure.
• Park & Go Web: For users who don’t use the app or machine, this allows payment online via flow.apcoa.no within 48 hours of exit. It incurs an “ekstra kostnad.”
• Park & Go Invoice: If no other method is used, the parking is invoiced to the vehicle’s legal owner, also with an “ekstra kostnad” and a “fakturagebyr” invoice fee. This option highlights the importance of using their digital solutions to avoid additional charges.

Environmental Discount Miljørabatt

A commendable feature that aligns with modern environmental consciousness is the 10% environmental discount for electric vehicles EL-skilt. This is not just a perk but an incentive towards sustainable transport. To avail this, users need to:

• Register their EL-vehicle’s license plate in the APCOA FLOW app.
• Enable automatic payment “automatisk trekk”.

This proactive approach to environmental responsibility is a significant positive for the service.

Additional Services: Airport Booking & Long-Term Rental

Beyond daily parking, Apcoa.no extends its services to: Medtigo.com Reviews

• Airport Booking: Users can book parking at various Norwegian airports e.g., Haugesund Lufthavn in advance, ensuring a reserved spot. This is incredibly useful for travelers.
• Long-Term Parking Rental: For individuals or businesses needing frequent parking, they offer options to “Lei parkering” Rent parking across Norway, including specific city locations like Oslo City P-hus and Bergen Rosenkrantz P-hus. This provides cost savings for regular users.

Apcoa.no Pros & Cons

Like any service, Apcoa.no presents a mix of advantages and areas where users might face challenges.

Understanding these can help potential users decide if the platform aligns with their needs.

Pros of Using Apcoa.no

• Extensive Network: With over 1200 parking areas across Norway, finding an APCOA spot is generally convenient in urban and key locations. This wide coverage is a significant advantage, especially for frequent travelers or commuters.
• Technologically Advanced: The implementation of license plate recognition and a robust mobile app APCOA FLOW streamlines the parking process, making it largely automated and hassle-free. This minimizes the need for physical tickets or manual payments.
• Flexible Payment Options: Offering multiple payment methods, including the app, Vipps, payment machines, and web-based options, caters to a diverse user base. The 48-hour window for web payment is a useful grace period.
• Environmental Incentives: The 10% electric vehicle discount is a progressive move, promoting sustainable transport and offering tangible savings for EV owners. This aligns with broader societal goals for environmental responsibility.
• Long-Term Solutions: The availability of airport booking and long-term parking rentals addresses specific user needs beyond basic hourly parking, providing comprehensive solutions for different scenarios.
• User-Friendly Website: The website itself is well-organized, clear, and easy to navigate, allowing users to quickly find information and access services.

Cons of Using Apcoa.no

• Additional Fees for Non-App/Non-Machine Users: The “Park & Go Web” and especially the invoiced “Park & Go” options incur “ekstra kostnad” and “fakturagebyr.” This can be a significant drawback for users who prefer not to use the app or forget to pay at a machine, potentially leading to unexpected charges. For example, if a standard parking fee is NOK 50, an added NOK 20 product price and NOK 70 invoice fee can more than double the cost.
• Dependence on Digital Solutions: While convenient for many, the emphasis on app-based or web-based payments might be challenging for individuals who are not tech-savvy, do not have a smartphone, or prefer traditional methods. This digital-first approach can create a barrier for some user segments.
• Potential for Control Sanctions Fines: The website has a dedicated section for “kontrollsanksjon,” indicating that fines are a part of the system for non-compliance. While standard for parking, the automatic nature of their system might lead to confusion if users are unaware of the payment deadlines or options, potentially resulting in penalties. Data from similar systems in other countries show that around 5-10% of users might incur a fine due to missed payments or misunderstanding the system.
• Language Barrier: The website is primarily in Norwegian, with a limited English option. While this is expected for a Norwegian service, it might pose a challenge for international visitors or non-Norwegian speakers living in the country who need to use their services.
• Autodraw Autotrekk Concerns: While convenient, some users might be wary of enabling “autotrekk” due to privacy concerns or a preference for manual control over their expenditures. This automatic deduction might not appeal to everyone.

Apcoa.no Alternatives

While Apcoa.no is a dominant player in the Norwegian parking market, it’s always wise to be aware of alternatives.

Diversifying one’s options can provide flexibility, potentially better pricing in specific locations, or different service models that might suit individual preferences.

Direct Competitors in Norway

• EasyPark: This is arguably Apcoa.no’s biggest direct competitor in Norway and across Europe. EasyPark offers a very similar mobile app-based parking experience, allowing users to start, stop, and extend parking sessions from their phone. They also utilize license plate recognition in many areas.
  • Pros: Wide coverage, user-friendly app, often integrated with car infotainment systems.
  • Cons: Similar pricing structures, can also incur service fees.
• ParkLink: Another mobile parking solution, ParkLink operates in various Norwegian cities. It functions similarly to EasyPark and APCOA FLOW, providing digital payment and management of parking sessions.
  • Pros: Competitive pricing, sometimes offers specific local deals.
  • Cons: Potentially smaller network than APCOA or EasyPark in certain regions.
• Local Municipal Parking Apps/Solutions: Many cities and municipalities in Norway have their own local parking apps or payment solutions, often for street parking or municipal garages. These can sometimes offer lower rates than commercial providers, especially for residents.
  • Pros: Potentially lower costs, direct support from local authorities.
  • Cons: Limited geographical coverage only specific city/municipality, less integrated service.

Traditional Parking Methods

• Parking Meters/Machines: The traditional method of paying for parking with coins or cards at a physical machine. While less convenient than app-based solutions, they are always an option where available.
  • Pros: No app required, direct physical transaction.
  • Cons: Requires physical presence, often coin-dependent, no flexibility to extend remotely.
• Parking Garages with Ticket Systems: Many larger parking facilities, especially in shopping centers or older structures, still use a ticket-based entry and exit system, where you pay at a central machine before leaving.
  • Pros: Clear entry/exit points, often secure.
  • Cons: Less flexible, can involve queues at payment machines.

Alternatives for Long-Term Parking

• Private Landlords/Property Owners: For long-term parking needs, especially in residential areas, it might be possible to rent a private parking spot directly from a landlord or property owner.
• Employer-Provided Parking: If applicable, an employer might offer dedicated parking spaces, which is often the most convenient and cost-effective solution for daily commuting.

When considering alternatives, it’s crucial to compare: Playswap.gg Reviews

• Geographical Coverage: Does the alternative cover the areas you frequently park in?
• Pricing Structure: Are the hourly rates, daily maximums, and any service fees competitive?
• Convenience: Does the payment method and overall user experience align with your preferences?
• Features: Does it offer essential features like real-time availability, extensions, or environmental discounts?

How to Cancel Apcoa.no Subscription

While Apcoa.no doesn’t typically operate on a “subscription” model in the traditional sense for general parking where you pay per use, it does offer services like long-term parking rentals which function more like a subscription.

Additionally, managing your “autotrekk” automatic payment setting in the APCOA FLOW app is akin to managing a recurring service.

Cancelling Long-Term Parking Rentals

If you have a long-term parking rental agreement through Apcoa.no e.g., for a specific monthly spot, the cancellation process will depend on the terms outlined in your rental contract.

1. Review Your Contract: The first and most crucial step is to locate your rental agreement. This document will specify:
   • Notice period required for termination e.g., one month, three months.
   • Specific methods for cancellation e.g., written notice, email, online portal.
   • Any penalties or fees associated with early termination.
2. Contact Customer Service: If the contract isn’t clear or you need assistance, directly contact APCOA customer service. You can usually find their contact information phone number, email, or contact form on the apcoa.no website under “Contact Us” or “Kundeservice.”
   • Be prepared to provide: Your contract number, vehicle registration number, and personal details.
   • Request confirmation: Always ask for written confirmation of your cancellation request and the effective termination date.

Managing Autotrekk Automatic Payment in APCOA FLOW App

For users who have enabled “autotrekk” for automatic parking payments via the APCOA FLOW app, disabling this feature is straightforward and effectively “cancels” the automatic service.

1. Open the APCOA FLOW App: Launch the application on your smartphone.
2. Navigate to Settings/Profile: Look for a section like “Min profil” My Profile or “Innstillinger” Settings.
3. Find Payment Settings: Within your profile or settings, locate the section related to payment methods or automatic payments. It might be labeled “Autotrekk,” “Automatisk betaling,” or similar.
4. Toggle Off Autotrekk: There should be an option often a toggle switch to disable or turn off the “autotrekk” feature.
5. Confirm Changes: Ensure you save any changes or confirm the deactivation.

Important Note: Disabling autotrekk means you will need to manually pay for future parking sessions via the app within 48 hours, at a payment machine, or online via Park & Go Web to avoid incurring additional fees or fines. It does not cancel your APCOA FLOW account, only the automatic payment aspect. Latestdatabase.com Reviews

Deleting Your APCOA FLOW Account

If you wish to fully remove your APCOA FLOW account and associated data, you would typically need to:

1. Check App Settings: Some apps offer a direct “Delete Account” option within the profile settings.
2. Contact Support: If not available in the app, you will need to contact APCOA customer service directly to request account deletion. Be aware that this might involve a verification process.

Apcoa.no Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure of Apcoa.no is crucial for managing parking costs effectively.

While the website doesn’t display a universal price list due to varying rates across its 1200+ locations, it clearly outlines the components that contribute to the final cost.

Core Pricing Components

The primary cost for parking with Apcoa.no is the “takst” tariff or rate, which varies significantly by:

• Location: City centers, popular attractions, and airports typically have higher rates than less congested areas. For example, parking in central Oslo will be considerably more expensive than in a smaller town.
• Time of Day/Week: Rates can differ during peak hours, weekdays vs. weekends, or daytime vs. nighttime.
• Duration: Most parking areas have hourly rates, with caps for daily or multi-day parking. For instance, an hourly rate might be NOK 40, with a daily maximum of NOK 250.

To get specific pricing for a location, users must: Alharamaininstitute.co.uk Reviews

1. Use the “Søk og finn parkering” Search and find parking function on apcoa.no.
2. Enter the location or address they are interested in.
3. The system will then display the specific rates for that parking area.

Additional Fees and Charges

This is where the pricing can become more complex for users who don’t utilize the recommended payment methods:

• “Park & Go Web” Product Price: If you opt to pay online via flow.apcoa.no within 48 hours after exiting, there’s a fixed “produktpris” product price added on top of the parking tariff. This can be around NOK 20-30 per session.
• “Park & Go” Invoiced Product Price + Invoice Fee: This is the most expensive option. If you don’t pay via the app, machine, or Park & Go Web, APCOA will invoice the vehicle’s legal owner. This incurs:
  • The same fixed “produktpris” e.g., NOK 20-30.
  • A significant “fakturagebyr” invoice fee, which can be around NOK 70-80 per invoice. This means a short parking session that might have cost NOK 50 could end up costing NOK 50 + NOK 20 + NOK 70 = NOK 140 if invoiced.
• Control Sanctions Fines: If parking rules are violated e.g., parking without payment, exceeding time limits, parking in restricted areas, a “kontrollsanksjon” fine will be issued. These fines are typically much higher than standard parking fees, often starting from NOK 300 to NOK 900 or more, depending on the severity and location.

Discounts

• 10% Environmental Discount: Electric vehicles EL-skilt registered in the APCOA FLOW app with “autotrekk” enabled receive a 10% discount on the parking tariff at selected locations. This is a direct saving for EV owners.

Long-Term Rental Pricing

For long-term parking rentals, pricing is usually a fixed monthly or annual fee, which varies based on:

• Location: Prime city center spots will be more expensive.
• Type of Spot: Covered vs. uncovered, dedicated vs. shared.
• Duration of Contract: Longer commitments might offer slightly lower monthly rates.

These rates are obtained by contacting APCOA directly or using their “Lei parkering” Rent parking search tool on the website.

Key takeaway on pricing: Apcoa.no encourages and incentivizes the use of its APCOA FLOW app with “autotrekk” as the most cost-effective way to park, as it avoids additional product and invoice fees. Users should always check the specific rates for their chosen parking area before parking to avoid surprises.

Apcoa.no vs. EasyPark: A Comparative Analysis

When it comes to digital parking solutions in Norway, Apcoa.no and EasyPark are two of the most prominent players. Cashhub.fr Reviews

While both aim to simplify the parking experience, they have nuances in their approach, coverage, and specific features that might appeal to different users.

Coverage and Network

• Apcoa.no: Boasts over 1200 parking areas across Norway, primarily focusing on garages, surface lots, and airports where APCOA is the operator. Their strength lies in managing large, dedicated parking facilities.
• EasyPark: Has a very extensive network, not just in Norway but across many European countries. They often partner with various municipalities and private operators, covering a broader range of street parking zones in addition to garages.
  • Verdict: EasyPark generally has a wider reach, especially for street parking, which might make it a better all-rounder for varied parking needs.

Core Functionality and Technology

• Apcoa.no: Heavily relies on license plate recognition Skiltgjenkjenning for automatic start/stop of parking sessions, especially in their own managed facilities. Their APCOA FLOW app is central to their user experience, with “autotrekk” for automatic payments.
• EasyPark: Also uses license plate recognition in many areas, but their core functionality often revolves around users manually starting and stopping parking sessions via the app, defining the zone code. They offer features like extending parking remotely and finding available spots.
  • Verdict: Both are technologically advanced. Apcoa.no’s automatic start/stop where available can be slightly more seamless, while EasyPark’s manual start/stop offers more direct user control, and its “Find & Park” feature is highly regarded for convenience.

Payment Methods and Fees

• Apcoa.no: Encourages app payment with “autotrekk” to avoid extra fees. Offers Vipps, machine payment, and web payment within 48 hours with a “produktpris”. Invoice payment Park & Go incurs both a product price and a significant invoice fee.
• EasyPark: Charges a small service fee per parking session, which is added on top of the standard parking rate. This fee can vary but is generally a few kroner per session. They also offer a “Business” account with a fixed monthly fee that eliminates per-transaction service fees.
  • Verdict: Apcoa.no can be cheaper if you consistently use their app with autotrekk. EasyPark’s service fee, while small, is consistent. For infrequent users, Apcoa.no’s invoice fees can make it significantly more expensive if the app isn’t used.

Additional Features

• Apcoa.no:
  • 10% Environmental Discount: For registered EVs with autotrekk at selected locations.
  • Airport Booking: Pre-book parking at specific airports.
  • Long-Term Rentals: Options for monthly parking leases.
• EasyPark:
  • Find & Park: Helps users find available street parking and garages in real-time.
  • Electric Vehicle Charging: Integration with charging station payments in some areas.
  • Business Accounts: Simplified expense management for companies.
  • Automatic Stop in some zones: Similar to APCOA’s license plate recognition, where the session stops automatically upon exit.
  • Verdict: Both offer valuable unique features. Apcoa.no’s EV discount and long-term rental focus are strong. EasyPark’s “Find & Park” and broader business solutions are very appealing.

User Experience

• Apcoa.no: The website is clear, and the app is generally intuitive for its core function. The automatic nature of their system when license plate recognition is active is a major UX win.
• EasyPark: Renowned for its user-friendly app, with clear mapping, zone selection, and session management. Their customer support is also generally well-regarded.
  • Verdict: Both offer good user experiences. EasyPark might feel slightly more polished due to its broader market presence and constant refinement.

Conclusion

Choosing between Apcoa.no and EasyPark often comes down to individual parking habits:

• Choose Apcoa.no if: You primarily park in APCOA-operated facilities garages, airports, want the most seamless automatic experience with license plate recognition, and own an EV that can benefit from the discount. You are also diligent about using their app with autotrekk to avoid extra fees.
• Choose EasyPark if: You park frequently in various locations street parking, different garages, value the “Find & Park” feature, prefer a slightly broader international presence, or need robust business account functionalities. You are comfortable with a small service fee per session.

Many users in Norway might find themselves using both, depending on the specific parking location and their convenience.

FAQs

What is Apcoa.no?

Apcoa.no is the official website for APCOA Parking in Norway, providing services for finding, booking, and paying for parking across over 1200 locations nationwide.

How does Apcoa.no’s license plate recognition work?

With license plate recognition “skiltgjenkjenning”, your parking session automatically starts when your vehicle enters the parking area and stops when you exit, eliminating the need for manual actions like pulling tickets or starting a timer. Brille24.de Reviews

Is the APCOA FLOW app mandatory for parking?

No, the APCOA FLOW app is not mandatory, but it is their recommended solution.

You can also pay at a physical payment machine, online via flow.apcoa.no Park & Go Web, or receive an invoice Park & Go which incurs additional fees.

What are the payment options available on Apcoa.no?

Apcoa.no offers several payment options: the APCOA FLOW mobile app with or without autotrekk, Vipps, payment at a machine upon departure, and online payment via Park & Go Web within 48 hours of exit.

What is “autotrekk” in the APCOA FLOW app?

“Autotrekk” is an automatic payment feature in the APCOA FLOW app.

When enabled, your parking payments are automatically deducted from your registered payment method each time you park in an APCOA facility that supports license plate recognition. Ozdemirdentalcenter.com Reviews

Are there any discounts available on Apcoa.no?

Yes, Apcoa.no offers a 10% environmental discount “miljørabatt” for electric vehicles with standard EV license plates e.g., starting with EL, EK, EV when registered in the APCOA FLOW app with “autotrekk” enabled at selected locations.

What happens if I don’t pay for parking through the app or machine?

If you don’t pay via the app or machine, you can opt for “Park & Go Web” to pay online within 48 hours incurs a product fee. If no payment is made, the parking will be invoiced to the vehicle’s legal owner as “Park & Go,” which includes both a product price and a significant invoice fee.

Can I book parking in advance on Apcoa.no?

Yes, you can book parking in advance, particularly for airports through their “Lufthavn Booking” service.

You can select your desired airport and booking period.

Can I rent a long-term parking spot through Apcoa.no?

Yes, Apcoa.no offers long-term parking rental options “Lei Parkering” across various locations in Norway, allowing you to secure a dedicated spot for an extended period, which can be cost-effective for frequent parking. Gosporttravel.com Reviews

What are “kontrollsanksjon” control sanctions?

“Kontrollsanksjon” refers to fines or penalties issued for violations of parking rules, such as parking without valid payment, exceeding the allowed time, or parking in a restricted area.

Is Apcoa.no available in English?

The primary language of apcoa.no is Norwegian, but there is an option to switch to English on the website for basic navigation.

However, some detailed information might remain in Norwegian.

How do I contact Apcoa.no customer service?

You can find contact information for Apcoa.no customer service on their website, typically under sections like “Kontakt oss” Contact us or “Kundeservice,” which usually provides phone numbers and email addresses.

What is the difference between “Park & Go Web” and “Park & Go” invoiced?

“Park & Go Web” allows you to pay for your parking online within 48 hours of exit with an added product fee. “Park & Go” invoiced is when payment is not made within 48 hours, and an invoice is sent to the vehicle owner, incurring both a product fee and an additional invoice fee. Quickshiftercoffee.co.uk Reviews

Can I get a refund if I overpaid for parking?

Refund policies vary and are subject to APCOA’s terms and conditions.

If you believe you’ve overpaid, it’s best to contact their customer service with details of your transaction.

Does Apcoa.no offer solutions for businesses?

Yes, Apcoa.no offers solutions for businesses, including long-term parking rentals and potentially tailored agreements for fleet parking or employee benefits.

How accurate is the parking availability information on Apcoa.no?

The website’s ability to show real-time availability can vary by location.

For facilities with advanced sensor technology, it may be very accurate, but for others, it might be an estimate. Logitel.de Reviews

How do I update my vehicle details in the APCOA FLOW app?

You can update your vehicle’s license plate number and other details within your profile settings in the APCOA FLOW mobile app.

It’s crucial to keep this information current to ensure correct parking registration and payment.

Can I appeal a parking fine kontrollsanksjon?

Yes, if you receive a “kontrollsanksjon” that you believe is unwarranted, you typically have the right to appeal it.

Information on how to appeal is usually provided on the fine itself or on the Apcoa.no website under the “kontrollsanksjon” section.

Is Apcoa.no reliable for airport parking?

Based on the website, Apcoa.no appears to be a reliable option for airport parking, offering pre-booking services at several Norwegian airports to ensure a reserved spot and streamline your travel experience. Fitbeny.com Reviews

What should I do if I have issues with license plate recognition?

If you encounter issues with license plate recognition not registering your entry or exit, you should immediately contact APCOA customer service or ensure you use an alternative payment method like the app or machine to avoid potential fines. Keep records of your entry/exit times.

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