Krefeld digitizes parking: Pay with your smartphone now!

Krefeld digitizes parking: Pay with your smartphone now!

From October 24, 2025, drivers in Krefeld will be able to use a new, convenient way of parking: paying parking fees via smartphone app will be introduced. So far, the city has been somewhat behind in this wave of digitalization, as [extra-tipp-am-sonntag] reports. Such digital payment methods have long been common practice in many German cities, and more and more consumers appreciate the flexibility and convenience they offer.

The decision to introduce app payment is the result of a cooperation between the Krefeld Municipal Corporation (KBK) and Smartparking. Five different providers are available to users: Easy-Park, Mobilet, Pay-By-Phone, Parkster and Parco. This not only makes paying in Königstrasse and other areas easier, but also more modern. Despite the introduction of new technologies, the existing parking ticket machines will not be dismantled; they will remain in operation and will be provided with instructions and notices for cell phone parking.

Flexible parking for everyone

One of the big goals behind this innovation is to give drivers more flexible parking. The apps not only allow you to purchase digital parking tickets, but also to stop or extend the parking time, without the hassle of searching for change or machines. This is intended to minimize overpayments and fines due to expired tickets, which benefits drivers.

But what about user behavior? According to [riverty], around 60% of drivers in Germany still prefer cash for parking. Habit, trust in coins and notes, and concerns about additional fees are common reasons. Nevertheless, 38% of drivers already use mobile payment methods. This means that the introduction of app payments in Krefeld will also appeal to an ever-growing group of consumers who prefer digital services.

The trend towards digitalization

With a growing mobile payment market expected to grow from $0.678 billion in 2024 to $1.405 billion by 2032, there is a clear trend towards digitalization. [WZ] adds that acceptance of such payment methods is already high in many major cities in Germany. Consumers are often behind the wheel and want a quick and uncomplicated solution. They rely on speed, transparency and flexibility, and that's exactly what the new app payments offer.

With this innovation, the city of Krefeld, which received the “Digital Award” in 2024, is taking a significant step towards a modern infrastructure. The connection between conventional parking and digital payment methods not only makes everyday life easier for drivers, but also significantly increases efficiency for the city administration. This change not only saves time, but is also an important building block in the context of smart city development, which is becoming increasingly important.

Krefeld is setting an example and showing that they don't want to lose touch even in the digital age. There is great anticipation for more innovation in the city and the benefits for citizens are obvious.