An independent stall is a parking space that allows the driver to access their vehicle directly. If another vehicle needs to be repositioned, the parking system handles that movement, so the driver does not need to move another vehicle themselves. In automated systems, stalls that are physically arranged in tandem can still be independently accessible because the system manages the vehicle movement. Independent stalls are well suited for residential, commercial, and self-park settings where direct access, convenience, and flexibility are important.

A dependent stall is a parking space where one vehicle may need to be moved before another vehicle can be accessed. This arrangement is commonly used to increase parking capacity within a limited footprint, especially where vehicles are managed by an attendant or valet. Dependent stalls are often best suited for valet-operated facilities or residential parking spaces assigned to the same unit, where vehicle access can be coordinated by the same user or household.