The invention relates to a process for the production of vinyl chloride by thermal cracking, in which the energy balance, the operating time of the cracking furnace and/or the yield of the reaction are distinctly enhanced in comparison with the prior art. A pressure of from 1.4 to 2.5 MPa is established in the cracking coil at a temperature of from 450 to 550° C. and, for pre-heating the EDC (=1,2-dichloroethane) introduced, inter alia the waste heat of the gas stream leaving the top of the quench column is utilized.