Parking garages (parkeringshus) in Sweden can be confusing at first. Many are automated, with barriers or doors that open only when you drive close enough to a sensor. In some garages, you might see a sign like “Kör närmare så öppnas porten”, which means “Drive closer and the gate will open.” If there are no visible instructions, it’s usually still the same principle—simply approach the door slowly and it will open automatically.

Always check the displayed prices and time limits before parking, as garage rates can vary significantly between cities and even within the same area. Some garages charge by the hour, while others round up to the nearest half-hour or apply a flat daily fee.

If you forget to pay or leave without completing payment, you’ll usually receive an invoice by post or have the option to pay online using your vehicle registration number. Some shopping centre garages also double as public parking and may offer a limited free period (often 2–3 hours) for customers who register their vehicle or validate parking while shopping. However, these rules vary by location, so always check the posted instructions or the mall’s website before leaving your car. Exceeding the free period or missing payment deadlines can result in additional fees.