Singapore is known for its clean, efficient, and modern public transport system — but what happens to the buses once they reach the end of their operational life? The process of retiring and disposing of these large vehicles is more structured and environmentally conscious than many people realize.
Whether operated by public transport companies or private fleet owners, old buses in Singapore go through a systematic process that balances regulation, recycling, and environmental responsibility. Here’s what actually happens when you scrap a bus in Singapore.
1. De-registration with the LTA
The journey begins when a bus is de-registered with the Land Transport Authority (LTA). This is a legal requirement that officially removes the vehicle from Singapore’s registry of road-worthy vehicles.
Owners use the OneMotoring portal to initiate de-registration. Once completed, they receive a Deregistration Certificate, which must be submitted when the bus is scrapped, exported, or otherwise disposed of.
2. Assessment for Export or Scrap
Not all de-registered buses go straight to the scrapyard. Some are assessed for export, especially if they are still in reasonable working condition. Used buses from Singapore are often sold to neighboring countries where demand for second-hand commercial vehicles is high.
However, if the bus is too old or no longer meets basic safety or emissions standards, the owner will likely choose to scrap the bus in Singapore instead.
3. Scrapping at LTA-Approved Facilities
If scrapping is the chosen route, the bus must be taken to an LTA-approved scrapyard. These facilities are licensed to handle the dismantling and recycling of large vehicles and follow strict environmental and safety standards.
At the scrapyard:
- The bus is carefully dismantled.
- Usable parts (like engines, transmissions, or electrical components) may be salvaged.
- Fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid are safely extracted and disposed of.
- Metal, glass, and plastic parts are sorted for recycling.
This process ensures that scrapping is done responsibly and sustainably.
4. Rebates and Incentives
Depending on the bus’s age and COE status, owners may qualify for COE or PARF rebates after de-registration. These are financial incentives provided by LTA to encourage timely disposal or renewal of vehicles.
In some cases, owners who scrap a bus in Singapore under the Early Turnover Scheme (ETS) can also enjoy additional incentives if they replace the old bus with a cleaner, more environmentally friendly model.
5. Supporting Singapore’s Green Goals
The entire process of retiring and scrapping buses contributes to the country’s larger sustainability efforts. Removing older, higher-emission vehicles from the roads helps improve air quality and supports the transition toward electric and hybrid buses under Singapore’s Green Plan 2030.
Final Thoughts
So, what really happens to old buses in Singapore? Whether they’re exported, dismantled for parts, or fully scrapped, every step is guided by regulation and responsibility. When you scrap a bus in SG, it’s not just about getting rid of an old vehicle — it’s about contributing to a smarter, greener transport system for all.
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