Scrap a Car, Step by Step: Your Singapore Guide
Nearly 40 percent of vehicles deregistered in Singapore end up at scrapyards each year. This highlights the importance of understanding the car scrapping process. Below we outline the steps, ensuring a smooth transition from paperwork to payment.
Learn the step-by-step scap/scrap process via LTA OneMotoring with Singpass 2FA. Learn about PARF and COE rebates and the timelines for submitting disposal proof with SGCarScrap. Our goal is to make the deregistration and scrapping process efficient and fair, helping you retain more of your car’s value.
This section covers the basics. Next, we detail legal duties after deregistration, the scrapping path, and prep for car/documents. You’ll also learn about choosing an LTA-approved scrapyard or EPZ and the on-site actions required. Expect practical, Singapore-based tips plus when scrapping makes sense.
If you wanted a stepwise car-building tutorial or you simply need to scrap a car, this guide helps. Our aim is clear, straightforward steps. Start here to craft a responsible and profitable exit plan.
Vehicle Deregistration & Legal Duties
First, understand what deregistration means. In Singapore, deregistration cancels your vehicle’s local registration. That means no road use unless it’s in an LTA-approved EPZ or properly re-registered.
What deregistration means in Singapore
Deregistering a vehicle removes it from LTA records. Disposal options are scrap (LTA-appointed yard), export, or EPZ storage before export. Based on age, COE balance, and matching engine/chassis numbers, you could get PARF/COE rebates.
Your legal duties post-deregistration
Deregister online using Singpass 2FA. If Singpass is not an option, book an appointment via LTA’s feedback page. Bring Form D01 and ID to the LTA Customer Service Centre. After deregistration, you must submit proof of disposal to LTA within one month. EPZ storage triggers a 14-day deadline.
Penalties for failing to submit disposal proof or keeping a deregistered vehicle
Failing to submit disposal proof can lead to prosecution. Initial offences may incur up to $2,000 fine or three months’ imprisonment. Repeat offenders face fines up to $5,000 and up to six months’ imprisonment. Keeping/using/driving a deregistered car is illegal. Expect fines up to $2,000 and potentially imprisonment.
Deregistered cars have no valid road tax/insurance. Using it can lead to separate penalties, such as mandatory driving disqualification for at least 12 months if uninsured.
You may wish to retain your number. Apply before/at deregistration at the yard, EPZ, or LTA. Retention can be completed within one month post-deregistration.
For practical guidance, refer to a straightforward construction-style tutorial. Or follow a trusted how to scrap a car step by step guide from an LTA-appointed operator. This keeps you compliant and safeguards rebates.
how to scap car step by step
Have a clear plan before acting. We outline the scrapping process. It helps you choose scrap, export, or EPZ storage with confidence.
Overview of the full scrapping pathway
Begin by choosing scrap/export/EPZ. Confirm any taxes/loans/encumbrances first.
Then use OneMotoring (SingPass 2FA) to deregister. If OneMotoring is not an option, visit an LTA service centre in person.
Within eight calendar days for PARF-eligible cars, transport the vehicle to an LTA-approved scrapyard or EPZ. Have it valued; payment is often on the spot.
Confirm LTA disposal upload by yard/EPZ or file personally. Apply for PARF and COE rebates when eligible and wait for LTA to process payouts.
Key deadlines to remember
Submit disposal proof to LTA within one month of deregistration to avoid penalties.
For EPZ storage then export, export docs must be filed within 14 days of exit or at 12-month storage end.
You have 12 months to claim PARF/COE. Cars under 10 years may get PARF. LTA usually releases rebates ~2–4 weeks post-processing.
When to choose scrapping over exporting or storing at an EPZ
Scrapping is best for cars that are too old, unsafe, or unpopular with exporters. Exporters may decline vehicles in poor condition.
With demand abroad and decent condition, export can pay more. Exporter offers may deduct about 1–2% for handling.
Choose EPZ storage if you plan to export but need time to arrange shipping. Storage can last up to 12 months for buffer.
Give yourself ~3 weeks pre-COE to reduce towing/stress. Balance costs, admin, and payout when choosing via SGCarScrap.
| Option | Best For | Time Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Scrapping | Very old/non-roadworthy cars | 1-month disposal proof; 12-month rebate claim |
| Export | Good-condition cars with overseas demand | EPZ export docs in 14 days; ship before 12 months |
| Storage for export | Owners who need time to export | Storage up to 12 months; EPZ must notify LTA on exit or after 12 months |
Prep your car & paperwork before an LTA-appointed yard
Before heading to an LTA-appointed scrapyard, prepare your car and gather necessary documents. Using a checklist helps prevent delays. Make sure processing is efficient and LTA accepts your proof.
Clearing outstanding road tax and loans
Confirm road tax status on OneMotoring. Settle arrears before deregistration. LTA will collect unpaid road tax or late fees at deregistration. Keep proof to speed processing.
Speak to your finance provider to clear loans. Loans must be cleared before deregistration. Carry the loan closure/lien release letter.
Documents to bring: original NRIC or long-term pass/Digital IC, deregistration form, proof of payments
Bring original ID. Singapore citizens and PRs can use their physical NRIC or the Digital IC via Singpass. Foreigners should present an Employment Pass or ICA pass card. Photocopies, screenshots, or videos are not accepted.
Have dereg confirmation or D01 if going in person. Include receipts for any paid road tax, late fees, or loan settlements. If an agent hands over, they need valid ID plus authorised digital confirmation per LTA.
PARF and COE: how to check
Use OneMotoring to view PARF/COE. Eligibility/amounts depend on age and lay-up history. COE rebate mirrors remaining tenure at deregistration.
Log in using Singpass to view estimates and encash. Expect payouts ~2–4 weeks after successful SGCarScrap submission. Without Singpass, schedule an LTA visit with ID/dereg papers.
Tips: match engine/chassis to LTA, clear personal items, notify insurer, and schedule on time. Think of these as reverse assembly steps to finish the car’s road life properly.
| Item | Where | Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Road tax check/payment | LTA OneMotoring | Receipt + reference |
| Clear loan | Bank/financier | Release letter |
| Identity verification | Singpass or ID | Physical NRIC/Long-Term Pass or Digital IC via Singpass |
| Dereg proof | LTA services | Confirmation or D01 |
| PARF/COE | OneMotoring | Estimate & login |
Preparing like this makes the scrapyard visit smoother. Understanding the steps reduces disposal-proof issues. To maximise value, collect multiple quotes and provide matching documents.
Selecting an LTA-approved scrapyard or EPZ
Choose a scrapyard/EPZ with your timing and paperwork in mind. Start with OneMotoring’s LTA operator lists. Notable options include Esun International (17 Tractor Road) and Kheng Keng Auto (56 Pandan Road). For EPZs, Boeki Auto & Marine at 39 Kranji Link and Cogent Automotive Logistics at 62 West Coast Ferry Road stand out.
Finding scrapyard EPZs
Use LTA contact lists to find EPZ details. The LTA pages list addresses, phone numbers, and operating hours for Kiat Lee Machinery at 213 Kranji Road and Hup Lee Leong Hardware at 26 Sungei Kadut St 3. Use these contacts to confirm services such as disposal submission and on-the-spot body value payment.
Scrapyard valuation: body value & parts demand
Valuation has two parts. The deregistration figures (PARF/COE) come from LTA. Body value depends on model, condition, and number matching.
High parts demand can improve body value. Popular Toyota/Honda/Mercedes models often get higher offers due to steady parts demand. The scrapyard normally pays the body value immediately once it accepts the vehicle.
Appointment tips and operating hours for common scrapyards and EPZs
Always book ahead. Most LTA-appointed scrapyard Singapore and EPZ operators work by appointment only. Try to book at least one week in advance if you plan to handle paperwork in person. Some routes require action within eight calendar days after deregistration.
Hours are typically Mon–Fri (morning to late afternoon) and shorter Sat hours. Public holidays tend to be closed. Confirm exact hours with operators like Boeki Auto & Marine or EPZ@Carros (60 Jalan Lam Huat).
| Company | Location | Hours | Core Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESUN International | 17 Tractor Road | Weekdays 9:00–17:30; Sat 9:00–13:00 | On-site body value payout, disposal submission |
| Kheng Keng Auto | No. 56 Pandan Road | Mon–Fri 8:30–17:00, Sat 9:00–12:00 | Parts-driven valuation; towing support |
| Boeki (EPZ) | No. 39 Kranji Link | Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 | Export processing, EPZ handling |
| Cogent Automotive Logistics (EPZ) | 62 West Coast Ferry Rd | Mon–Fri 8:30–17:30, Sat 9:00–12:30 | Logistics & disposal doc submission |
Once deregistered, anyone may tow it to the chosen yard/EPZ with original ID. Ask whether they submit disposal docs to LTA. Keep receipts and note how the car maps to assembly steps if you intend to recycle parts.
On-site steps & LTA disposal submission
Upon arrival at an LTA-approved scrapyard or an Export Processing Zone, a streamlined process awaits. Drive in or tow the car. The operator will verify your identity and deregistration status using Singpass or the documents you provide.
At the site
- Hand over keys and originals or authorisation letter if you cannot be present.
- The scrapyard assesses body value based on condition, parts demand and model popularity.
- Expect immediate payment of body value upon handover.
Submitting disposal proof to LTA
- You or the scrapyard/EPZ operator must submit disposal documents to LTA within one month from deregistration.
- For exports, EPZ operators must upload export documents within 14 calendar days after the vehicle leaves the EPZ or when 12 months of storage ends.
- Accepted docs include CCP + endorsed B/L (sea) or CCP + MY import + foreign registration (land).
- Double-check engine and chassis numbers match LTA records before you submit disposal proof LTA to avoid delays.
After disposal
- When LTA has the docs, apply for PARF/COE on OneMotoring.
- Expect ~2–4 weeks for rebate processing.
- Dealer/exporter use may mean paper value minus ~1–2% fees.
- If anything mismatches, LTA will contact the last registered owner to resolve.
Keep receipts, uploads, and operator contacts. This makes follow-up easier if you need to chase processing times or clarify rebate amounts.
Approach the scrapyard process in Singapore as a transactional checklist. For a hands-on guide, a step by step car building tutorial can help you understand what buyers value before handing over your car.
Alternatives & tips to improve value, plus pitfalls
When disposing of a vehicle in Singapore, you have several options. Condition/paperwork/urgency drive scrap vs export choice. LTA-approved scrap yards pay body value immediately. You also receive the paper value from LTA when you claim rebates for PARF or COE.
Exporting may pay more if there’s demand overseas. Most paperwork is handled by exporters, with a small fee deducted. Working with a CaseTrust-SVTA accredited motor dealer adds consumer protection. Check reputation and fees before engaging.
How to boost what you get:
Timing is crucial. Don’t wait for COE expiry—avoid towing costs and fewer options. Good condition of body/components increases value. Intact panels and functioning electronics are highly valued.
Get multiple quotes from yards/exporters. Offers vary with market/year demand. Always secure receipts and confirm the filer of disposal proof.
Quick wins to improve offers:
- Have matching IDs/docs ready.
- Fix small issues only if cost-effective.
- Consider plate retention before deregistration if you want to keep the plate.
Common mistakes owners make:
- Waiting until the last minute. Give yourself ~3 weeks to avoid towing and rush.
- Missing the disposal-proof deadline. This risks prosecution and fines.
- Letting a deregistered car be used. It’s illegal and penalised.
Ensure engine and chassis numbers match LTA records. Any discrepancies delay rebate payouts. Follow LTA ID requirements (NRIC/LTP/Digital IC).
Shop around to negotiate a stronger deal. Ask about towing costs, who files disposal documents, and what written proof you will receive. Confirm with your insurer about transfer/cancellation.
DIY-inclined? Basic car-building knowledge helps assess parts. It supports better discussions with buyers about condition.
Final Thoughts
Scrapping your car in Singapore is a straightforward process if you follow the LTA steps. Begin by deregistering through SingPass, then clear any outstanding road tax or loans. Then schedule an appointment with an LTA-approved yard or EPZ.
Bring original ID, dereg form, and payment proofs. They will value the car and pay immediately. After scrapping, submit disposal proof to LTA within a month. Claim PARF/COE within 12 months; processing is ~2–4 weeks.
Improve returns by comparing accredited dealer/exporter offers. Export may suit you if timing/demand improves pay. Always avoid fines by not keeping or using a deregistered vehicle. Ensure engine and chassis numbers, ID, and paperwork align with LTA records.
Give yourself ~3 weeks before COE to reduce stress and costs. You’ll move through disposal smoothly and legally. For step-by-step scrapping, you now have the steps. It helps you improve returns and avoid pitfalls, whether you’re into building or just freeing value.