Electronic toll collection systems have made paying toll fees easier and more convenient for motorists in the Philippines. Two of the most popular systems in the Philippines are Easytrip and Autosweep. But what’s the difference between the two? Let’s take a closer look. Easytrip and Autosweep are radio frequency identification (RFID) systems allowing motorists to pay toll fees electronically. However, significant differences in their coverage areas, toll fees, and customer service can affect your overall experience. In this blog post, we’ll compare the two systems and help you decide the best fit for your needs.
Easytrip vs Autosweep: What is Easytrip?
Easytrip RFID is an electronic toll collection system the Metro Pacific Tollway company provides that enables cashless toll payments. Easytrip uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to automatically deduct toll fees from motorists’ accounts as they pass through toll plazas on major expressways.
Easytrip supports the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) with designated Easytrip lanes for faster and more convenient travel. Motorists simply place an Easytrip RFID tag or sticker on their windshield, and the toll is deducted electronically way as they pass through the gate. This eliminates the need to stop and pay cash, reducing traffic and wait times.
Easytrip offers motorists a choice of three RFID payment options:
• Easytrip RFID tag: Can be used nationwide on NLEX, SCTEX, and CAVITEX. It Provides the most flexibility and coverage.
• Easytrip RFID sticker: Also usable on NLEX, SCTEX, and CAVITEX. Convenient but may not adhere as strongly to the windshield.
• EasyDrive RFID sticker: Exclusively for CAVITEX expressway. Limited to that route but functions similarly to the other RFID options.
To start using Easytrip, simply register an account on their website, receive your RFID tag/sticker at no cost, and affix it to your vehicle’s windshield. Your account will be automatically debited when passing through Easytrip lanes. With Easytrip, driving on toll roads is seamless, affordable, and cashless. Sign up today for faster and more budget-friendly travel!
Easytrip vs Autosweep RFID: What is Autosweep?
Autosweep RFID is another major electronic toll collection system used in the Philippines. Owned and operated by San Miguel Corporation, Autosweep supports tollways including the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway, and Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR).
Like Easytrip, Autosweep uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to automatically deduct toll fees from motorists’ accounts as they pass through toll plazas. This results in faster, more convenient transactions without stopping and paying cash. Autosweep also offers prepaid discounted rates and reloading options to help save on frequent use of toll roads.
Some key benefits of using Autosweep include:
- Faster tolling with less waiting – RFID tags allow seamless passage through dedicated Autosweep lanes.
- Convenient reloading – Fund your account online, via mobile apps, in-lane cash reloads, or partner store reloading.
- Discounted rates – Lower rates are applicable if you drive frequently on connected Autosweep tollways.
- Use on many vehicles – Affix one RFID tag to different vehicles for added flexibility.
While Autosweep provides advantages over cash payments, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Rare system downtime possible – As with any technology, occasional issues could affect operations.
- Low balance alerts – Receive alerts when your balance reaches a preset minimum threshold. Must maintain some funds to continue using tollways.
- Varies by route and vehicle class – Exact fees will depend on the specific tollway and type of vehicle. Initial fees cover the RFID tag and account setup.
- User dashboard – Websites and mobile apps offer full visibility and management of your Autosweep account, including balance checks, reloads, transaction history, and settings.
To start using Autosweep, register an account on their website or mobile app and get a free RFID tag at select installation centers by providing vehicle and personal details. It supports affixing the tag to your windshield for cashless driving on Autosweep toll roads!
Difference between Easytrip and Autosweep
Easytrip and Autosweep are major electronic toll collection systems in the Philippines that use RFID technology for automated payment deduction at toll plazas. Both offer advantages over cash, like faster transactions, electronic reloading, account management, and savings through discounts and prepaid packages.
However, there are some key differences between Autosweep and Easytrip to consider:
- Coverage and Accepted Tolls
- Easytrip: NLEX, SCTEX, CAVITEX. It covers major expressways in Luzon and southern Luzon.
- Autosweep: SLEX, Skyway, STAR. It Covers major expressways in southern Luzon and southern Philippines.
- Payment Methods
- Easytrip: RFID tags, stickers, and prepaid accounts. Use the same tag for many vehicles.
- Autosweep: RFID tags and prepaid accounts. Can use the same tag for different vehicles.
- Discounts and Savings
- Easytrip: Discounted toll rates for frequent usage and prepaid packages.
- Autosweep: Discounted rates apply if you frequently drive on connected Autosweep toll roads. Prepaid options are also available.
- Reloading Options
- Easytrip: Online reloading, partner store reloading, and over-the-counter reloading.
- Autosweep: Online reloading, mobile app reloading, in-lane cash reloads, and partner store reloading.
- Minimum Balance
- Easytrip: None specified. Accounts can have zero balance.
- Autosweep: Requires minimum balance to continue using toll roads. Receives alerts when the balance reaches a preset minimum threshold.
- Registration and Account Management
- Easytrip: Register online or at select locations. Website and mobile app allow account access.
- Autosweep: Register online, via mobile app, or at select locations. The website and mobile app provide account management and transaction visibility.
Here is a more detailed table comparing the services of Easytrip and Autosweep:
Feature | Easytrip | Autosweep |
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Tollways covered | NLEX, SCTEX, CAVITEX, CALAX, C5 Link, NAIAX, SLEX, Skyway, STAR Tollway, MCX, and TR4 | SLEX, Skyway, STAR Tollway, MCX, and TR4 |
Initial cost | PHP 500 for RFID sticker and PHP 200 for card load | PHP 200 for RFID sticker and PHP 100 for card load |
Reload options | Online, via bank deposit or transfer, via Easytrip reloading stations, and partner merchants | Online, via bank deposit or transfer, via Autosweep reloading stations, and partner merchants |
Maximum load amount | PHP 10,000 | PHP 5,000 |
RFID tag replacement cost | PHP 200 | PHP 200 |
Discounts and promos | Offers various discounts and promos, such as free first trip, free parking, and cashback. Also offers rewards program for frequent users | Offers various discounts and promos, such as free first trip, cashback, and discounts for frequent users |
Customer support | Offers customer support via phone, email, and social media. Also has a mobile app for account management and balance inquiries | Offers customer support via phone, email, and social media. Also has a mobile app for account management and balance inquiries |
Accessibility | Can be used on multiple tollways, but requires separate accounts for Easytrip and Autosweep. Can also be used for parking in some locations | Can only be used on SLEX, Skyway, STAR Tollway, MCX, and TR4, but can be used with a single Autosweep account. Can also be used for parking in some locations |
Choose Easytrip and Autosweep RFID Tips and Tricks
You can choose between Easytrip and Autosweep by comparing the coverage of the highways you visit most often. The best system choice yields the greatest benefit while avoiding spending too much money on rarely traveled roads.
Once your preferred service is selected, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
- Check expressway coverage before choosing a system. Ensure Easytrip and Autosweep service the roads you frequent most to optimize your selections.
- Compare discount rates and reload offers. Look for the most affordable options if you drive regularly during peak hours or weekends. Prepaid or premium packages could save you money in the long run.
- Register additional RFID tags if needed. One tag per vehicle provides the most flexibility between Easytrip and Autosweep systems. Only pay for extra tags if truly essential.
- Reload via the cheapest available method. Choose between online banking, mobile apps, partner stores, or over-the-counter reloading based on associated fees. Every peso counts!
- Set least balance alerts. Receive reminders in advance once your account balance approaches a preset spending limit. This avoids overspending and provides time to top up funds before toll transactions are rejected.
- Check account balances regularly. Monitor your balances at least weekly through the Easytrip/Autosweep website or mobile app. See where your money is going and look for expenses you can reduce or eliminate.
- Dispute questionable charges immediately. Carefully review your transaction history and dispute any irregular fees, passed-through charges from other vehicles, or incorrect debits within the allowed number of days. Provide supporting evidence for faster refunds.
- Ask about promotional deals and COLA. Look into current promotions, discounts, and cost of living adjustments that can help lower your overall spending. Every bit of savings helps, especially during pricey commutes.
- Provide constructive feedback and suggestions. Contact Easytrip/Autosweep directly with system issues, ideas to improve services, or requests for new features to enhance your overall experience as a valued customer. Thoughtful feedback shapes better products and quality service over time.
The decision to use Easytrip vs. Autosweep depends on personal preference and which system is more suitable for your travel needs. Both systems offer advantages such as faster transaction times and convenient reloading options. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this blog, you can ensure a seamless and efficient experience when using electronic toll collection systems in the Philippines.
Other Uses of RFID:
More about Easytrip vs Autosweep FAQs
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Can you reuse the same Easytrip RFID tag for many vehicles? Can you do the same with Autosweep?
You can reuse the same Easytrip and Autosweep RFID tags for many vehicles.
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How does Easytrip allow reloading funds? How about reloading with Autosweep?
Easytrip allows reloading online, at partner stores, or over-counter. Autosweep enables reloading online, via mobile app, in-lane, or at partner stores.
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Is there a minimum balance requirement to continue using Easytrip tolls? Is there a similar requirement with Autosweep?
Easytrip has no least balance requirement. Autosweep requires a least balance to continue using tolls and sends alerts when the balance reaches a preset threshold.
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Where can you register for an Easytrip account? Where does Autosweep allow account registration?
You can register for an Easytrip account online, via mobile app, or at locations. Autosweep allows registration online, via mobile app, at locations or partner stores.
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Does Easytrip offer a mobile app for managing your account? Does Autosweep also have a mobile app?
Easytrip and Autosweep have mobile apps and websites for account access and management.
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Can you file a dispute with Easytrip if there are any erroneous charges? Is Autosweep also open to disputes or complaints?
Easytrip and Autosweep will review disputes about incorrect debits or fees if you provide evidence to support any claims.