Avoiding Holiday Border Delays: VEP Tips for Peak Periods

Public holidays and long weekends are some of the busiest times for the Singapore–Malaysia border. During these peak periods, crossing delays can stretch for hours, especially if your Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) isn’t in order.

At MyMechanic, we’ve helped thousands of drivers prepare for stress-free trips during festive rushes. Here are our best VEP tips to help you avoid unnecessary hold-ups this holiday season.

1. Check Your VEP Status Early

Before any holiday trip, log in to the VEP portal to ensure your:

• Application is approved
• RFID tag is active and linked to your vehicle
• Records are updated with the latest plate number and COE validity

2. Inspect Your RFID Tag

A damaged or improperly placed RFID tag can cause detection issues at the border. Make sure:

• The tag is clean and firmly attached
• It’s placed exactly where required by the installation guide
• It hasn’t faded or peeled off

3. Clear All Outstanding Fines

Malaysia’s enforcement system can flag your vehicle for unpaid summonses, preventing entry. Check for fines before the trip and settle them online or through MyMechanic’s service.

4. Travel During Off-Peak Hours

If possible, plan your trip:

• Early in the morning
• Late at night
• On weekdays before the holiday rush

This can significantly reduce waiting times.

5. Carry Backup Documents

Even with an RFID tag, keep soft or hard copies of your:

• VEP approval email
• COE document
• Vehicle registration card

They can be useful if there’s a system error at the border.

How MyMechanic Makes Peak-Period Travel Easier

• Verifying VEP status before travel
• Replacing damaged RFID tags quickly
• Checking and clearing fines to avoid enforcement flags
• Providing same-day VEP updates for urgent trips

Final Thoughts

Holiday border delays can be frustrating, but many can be avoided with proper VEP preparation. By checking your status, keeping your RFID in good shape, and clearing fines before travel, you’ll save hours at the border. With MyMechanic, your holiday trip starts smoothly — before you even leave Singapore.