Overview

If the Parkable app shows no spaces available, it means all spaces are currently allocated. Even if a space looks empty, it may already be reserved by someone who hasn't arrived yet. Do not park in a space without an active session — this could lead to conflicts or penalties.

A parking facility may show as full because:

All spaces are allocated to other users who are yet to arrive
The parking facility is temporarily closed for maintenance or an event
Some spaces are temporarily unavailable due to restrictions

What you can do

If no spaces are available, you have two options:

Use auto-start session — join a queue and have your session started automatically when a space becomes available. Tap the No space available card on the car park details screen to get started
Find another parking facility — see How do I find a car park in the app? for how to browse nearby parking facilities

Auto-start session

Instead of constantly checking the app for availability, you can join a queue and get notified when a space becomes available.

How to enable auto-start

Open the parking facility in the Parkable app
Tap the No space available card if no spaces are currently available
On the next screen, turn on the Start a session automatically option
Set your preferences:
- Choose your desired end time for the parking session (default is 2 hours)
- Adjust the latest time you want your session to auto-start. If no space becomes available by this time, you'll be removed from the queue
Save your selection and close the app — you don't need to keep it open

When a space becomes available, your session starts automatically and you receive a push notification. Head to the parking facility to use your space.

Tip: Set your time limit based on when you no longer need the space. For example, if you need to leave home by 8am, set the limit to 8am. The default is 2 hours, rounded to the nearest 15 minutes.

How the queue works

Spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis
You're only charged when your session actually starts — joining the queue is free
If your time limit passes before a space becomes available, you're automatically removed from the queue (no notification is sent)
You can enable auto-start at multiple parking facilities at the same time. When a session starts at one, all other queue positions are cancelled
Make sure your app notifications are enabled so you don't miss the alert when your session starts

FAQs

Why did someone join the queue after me but get a space first?

Some spaces have access restrictions. For example, if an EV charging space becomes available, only users with EV access will be matched — even if other users are ahead in the queue.

Do I get charged for joining the queue?

No. You're only charged when your session actually starts.

Can I cancel auto-start?

Yes. Open the parking facility in the app and turn off auto-start at any time. You'll be removed from the queue.

Can I see my queue position?

Not currently. The app doesn't show queue position — you just wait for the notification that your session has started.

What happens if I start parking somewhere else while I'm in the queue?

If you manually start a session at another parking facility, your auto-start is automatically cancelled and you're removed from the queue. You can only have one active session at a time.