Managing authorized parking access is a challenge for municipalities, universities, businesses, residential communities, and event organizers alike. The right parking permit format, either hang tags or decals, can make a big difference in security, convenience, and enforcement efficiency. Both options serve the same purpose, to visibly authorize access, but they differ in flexibility, durability, security features, and overall use suitability. Selecting the right solution for a property is a function of the overall access, and enforcement goals that are part of an organization’s parking plan.
Hang Tags
Hang tags are permits designed to hang from a vehicle’s rear-view mirror. They are highly visible, easy to remove, and in addition to being an annual or permanent solution – they can be used for temporary or transferable access.
Decals
Decals adhere to a vehicle’s windshield or another visible surface. Permit decals can be produced specifically for window applications inside a vehicle, or with the right weatherproof materials made for outside applications like on a vehicle’s bumper. Parking permit decals can be suitable for both long-term or short-term use and are an excellent option for vehicle specific applications.
Both formats can be customized with logos, color coding, and security features. However, features and security options depend on the material and printing method used.
Both hang tags and decals have their benefits, and limitations. Each use case can help determine the best solution for a particular permitting need. Considerations such as length of use, enforcement practices, specific vehicle restrictions (such as transferability) and security preferences, all come into play when choosing between parking permit hang tags and parking permit decals.
Duration of Permit; Both hang tags and decals can be used for either long term or short-term applications. For hang tag permits this, however, can depend on the material used. A temporary hang tag made from paper material is suitable for short term use, while a composite or synthetic material is often used on an annual basis.
Controlled Use Requirements: Both parking permit decals and parking permit hang tags allow for the controlled access of a facility. However, the unique needs and goals of a parking program should be taken into consideration.
Enforcement Process: Both hang tags and decals can allow for enforcement of an organization’s access and parking regulations. There are certain parking enforcement considerations that can help a decision be made.
Parking permit decals and hang tags are used by many different types of organizations, both public and private, for a variety of purposes. Often the main goal is to authorize parking and provide access as well as registration/identification. Permits are used for permission, as well as safety reasons.
Both hang tags and decals can include:
Variable data allows for unique to user permits to track registrations.
Hang Tag Specific Options
Choosing between hang tags and decals isn’t just about preference-it’s about program goals and user behavior. When developing a permitting program, and choosing between hang tag permits or decal permits, working with an expert can help make the process easier. The right vendor will provide guidance, help select the proper solution, and advise on the materials and security features that will ensure a parking permit or access permit program succeeds.
Ultimately, the decision should align with security requirements, user convenience, enforcement processes, and overall program objectives.
With that said, the natural next step is to select a print vendor and permit supplier that aligns with your organization’s goals. It’s even more important that the vendor be a partner that can help you develop your overall program and parking permit strategy. Rydin works with many different public and private organizations offering permitting expertise and aligning the right solutions and materials for the user’s unique situation. When using a highly qualified vendor such at Ryin, you can be assured of making the right choice. Another aspect to consider is complementary services. Does your organization’s permitting plan require permit distribution, or even a fully functional permit management software solution?. A vendor such as Rydin with a complete complement of services will help a program succeed.
Learn about Rydin’s variety of solutions, and the expert advice that can help you structure your program and select the correct parking permit hang tags, or parking permit decals to fit your needs. From ready-to- ship parking permits, to complete customized solutions, Rydin is your partner, helping you manage your parking facility effectively with the security and personal service you require. Visit Rydin.com to learn more and build your own customized solution. Rydin.com’s easy to use interface will help you order and learn about the options available. Need a personal touch and expert advice? Our permit experts are available to guide you through the process and work with you on an on-on-one basis to develop your perfect solution.
Paper hang tags are ideal low-cost solution for temporary or seasonal permits.
Use case, specific application, security needs, enforcement, and length of use all will help a user choose between hang tags and decals.
Absolutely. Hang tags can include holograms, barcodes, and color coding to reduce fraud.
Absolutely. Hang tags can include holograms, barcodes, and color coding to reduce fraud.
Parking permit hang tangs allow users to move a permit from vehicle to vehicle.
Decals typically cost less, while hang tags may have a higher per-unit cost when looking for a solution that will be used for up to 12 months. For shorter periods, such as daily, or up to 30 days, temporary/Paper hang tags are a great low-cost solution..
Adding your town’s logo or official seal is a good idea. It helps identify the permit and further increases security. Custom imagDecals are designed to withstand outdoor conditions year-round. Hang tags can also be durable but may require specific materials for outdoor use. Protection from fading is another consideration for long-term parking permit use. Hang tags produced on today’s full color presses are not protected against UV Rays and rely on the UV protection of a vehicle’s front windshield for protection from the sun. Decals can be produced on a white vinyl material with UV resistant inks and are often guaranteed to not fade for 12 months. In many cases the decals color can last as long as 5 years.es of special events, or village landmarks are also often added to permits to create a unique customer look.
Yes. With the proper materials, outside-adhesive decals can be affixed to bumpers or outside of windows.
Absolutely. Permits can be round, square, oval, octagon and even die cut to other shapes. Full color printing matching an organization’s identity and branding is possible.
Custom orders often start at 100 units with pricing varying as quantity increases. Production time varies depending on quantity, design, and optional features. Many ready to ship hang tag and decal parking permit options are also available and can ship as soon as the same day.
Use of anti-counterfeit features such as holograms, foils, destructible decals, void adhesives, sequential numbering, micro printing, and black light inks.
Hang tags can offer a quick visible check when properly affixed to a vehicle’s rear-view mirror. Parking Permit Hang Tags can even be updated seasonally, or on a per-event basis allowing for both flexibility and an easy to manage enforcement plan. Parking permit decals, especially those produced with tamper-evident materials, offer a high level of security as well as ease of enforcement. Decals can also reduce theft. Both hang tags and decals can feature anti-counterfeit options to aid in permit security.
Facilities that service users with multiple vehicles, or have the need to transfer a permit between users, look for flexibility in their permitting program. Hang tags can be transferred between vehicles and are reusable. Parking permit hang tags are ideal for households, fleet users, and other multiple vehicle situations. Decals once affixed remain with the vehicle unless physically removed. Depending on the material used, removing a parking permit decal can render the permit void/not useable. This makes decals not the ideal option for multiple vehicle use.
Hang tags are typically hung from a vehicles rear-view mirror, which makes them easy to spot. However, it is up to the user to both remember to install and properly install the hang tag. Facility considerations such as parking space regulations and sight lines also play a part in the visibility of a parking permit hang tag. Decals, when utilized in accordance with parking regulations, allow for ease of visibility and enforcement. Parking permit decals can be placed in specific locations on a vehicle’s windshield, side or back windows, or even outside on a vehicle’s bumper to match a facility’s specific circumstances.
