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Driving in Singapore is something more than just following traffic rules. Motorists need to understand Electronic Road Pricing (ERP), especially when travelling on busy roads and expressways.
The ERP timing determines when motorists need to pay road pricing charges at specific locations.
What is ERP in Singapore?
The ERP is a system introduced by Land Transport Authority in Singapore to control the traffic congestion the Singapore roads. The main purpose of this system is to regulate the traffic and encourage motorists to travel outside busy periods.
The ERP charges are not the same across Singapore. They may change based on various factors such road type, time and the vehicle category. For example, when a motorist travels through a busy road during peak hours in the morning may have to pay more than someone who travels in the same road in the afternoon.
What is ERP Timing?
ERP timing refers the specific hours during which the charges are collected from the motorists on the designated roads and expressways in Singapore.
The traffic condition is not going to be the same during a specific hour in different locations. So, this decides the ERP operating hours. For example, in a particular location the traffic congestion may be high in the morning. Whereas in other locations the traffic congestion may be high in the night or other periods. So, the ERP operating hours will be decided accordingly.
The motorists need to know about this ERP timings to plan their journeys accordingly and avoid unnecessary charges.
What are the ERP Rates in Singapore?
ERP rates refer to the amount that the motorists may have to pay while crossing an active ERP charging point.
The charges may vary based on timing, location, traffic condition and vehicle type. The ERP rates are adjusted every quarter, especially during June and December school holidays.
Which Roads Have ERP Charges?
ERP gantries are generally located in roads and expressways where traffic management is needed. Some major roads and expressways with ERP charges in Singapore include,
- Central Expressway (CTE)
- Pan Island Expressway (PIE)
- Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE)
- Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway (KPE)
- Marina Coastal Expressway (MCE)
- Selected roads in the Orchard area
The charges are always not applicable in these roads. We should check the specific gantry and its operating schedule before we choose our routes.
How To Check the ERP Timings and Rates?
Checking ERP rates before leaving home can help you avoid unnecessary charges. You can check it by following these simple steps.
- Visit the official LTA OneMotoring website
- Open the Electronic Road Pricing system
- Check the latest ERP rate table
- Find the gantry or road that you want to use
- Check the applicable time slot and rates
You can also use the navigation apps to find the alternative routes and estimated travel time. But it is better to check the official ERP schedule to get precise rate information.
How to Save Money on ERP Charges?
Your travel expenses can be managed using the following simple steps.
If your travel timing is flexible for you, consider travelling before or after the applicable ERP operating hours.
Before starting your travel, make sue to check the route and find out the ones that has active ERP charges and try to avoid them.
For your trips into busy areas, it is better to consider travelling by bus or any other public transports.
ERP timings and rates keep changing. So, reviewing the latest information will help you avoid last minute surprises on the charges.
If you are someone who travels to work every day, it is better to understand the ERP timing for your regular route. This can help you plan your monthly budget for transport.
How ERP Timing Affects Businesses in Singapore?
ERP Timing affects businesses in Singapore that majorly depend on road transportation. Companies that involve in activities like logistics, delivery and retail distribution incur ERP charges regularly. These charges become their operating expense.
For example, companies that operate multiple vehicles to deliver goods may incur several ERP charges throughout the day. Monitoring these expenses help the business plan the delivery schedules more efficiently.
Businesses can also use accounting software to manage these expenses, maintain records and increase visibility.
Read Also: Expense Reimbursement: Definition, Benefits, and Policy
ERP Timing – FAQs
What time does ERP start in Singapore?
ERP starting time in Singapore depends on the charging points. Some expressways charging points begin their operating time during the peak hours. While others may have different charging points.
Is ERP free after 8 PM in Singapore?
The ERP charging points generally do not operate late in the night. But always it is better to check the operating hours before travel rather assuming that the same applies to all operating points.
Is ERP free on Sundays?
Yes, there are no ERP charges collected on Sundays and public holidays in Singapore.
Where can I check the latest ERP timing in Singapore?
The motorists can check the latest ERP timings, charging location and rates in the official LTA OneMotoring website.
