Finding a parking space can be a challenge, especially when you don't have the time to do so. It'll help if you have a spot reserved in advance, but not everyone has that kind of luxury, especially the average Joe.
Fortunately, Lyft has something that will do just that.
The popular ride-hailing app has recently announced it had partnered with SpotHero to launch a new service that would allow users to reserve a parking slot for themselves before heading out.
SpotHero is a Chicago-based parking company established to help find, reserve, and pay for parking, per the company's About Us page.
Lyft Parking Details - What To Know And How To Use It
Lyft mentioned on its official website that Lyft Parking would work similarly to creating a hotel reservation online, wherein people can see the closest available parking spots to them along with their respective prices for them to decide which to book before heading out, per The Verge.
Additionally, the service will provide users with transparent pricing, which will be based on their entry and exit time. The price of a parking spot will be displayed before users book it.
To use the newly launched service, open the Lyft app and look for the steering wheel icon in the bottom right corner of the screen. From there, add your license plate number and other car details, including how long you'll be taking up the spot to reserve it to your name.
Afterward, use the in-app instructions and QR code to park. Once you do, you can enter your reserved park space anytime after your start time and leave before your reservation is over.
Lyft assures users it will inform them if their reservation time is almost over and offer an extension should they wish to have their reservation extended.
Although Lyft didn't specifically mention how the pricing of its parking reservation service works on its FAQ, its official website says that the service charges users by the hour.
Lyft Parking Availability - How To Check If You Can Use It
As of the publication of this article, Lyft Parking is only available in select US markets, and as such, not every state or city will have access to the new feature.
This limited selection is in contrast to SpotHero's service coverage, which is available in over 300 cities in the US and Canada. As such, the feature is likely in its pilot testing phase to see if there is a market for such a service among the Lyft community.
To check if your area is part of the select few, tap the steering wheel icon in Lyft's app. Should a "Parking" button be present, you can start using the new feature immediately.
Lyft didn't mention what to provide authorized personnel to prove their reservation, but should something go wrong with a parking reservation, users are advised to call +1 (844) 387-7684 or email Lyft Parking at lyftparking@spothero.com.
