Over 300 trucks crossed Leușeni–Albița overnight as border traffic measures take effect
Over 300 trucks were processed last night at the Leușeni–Albița customs post, following the opening of an additional reversible lane for vehicles traveling without cargo. Traffic toward the European Union remains heavy, and the Customs Service said it is working with Romanian authorities to streamline traffic flow and reduce waiting times.
"The Customs Service is operating continuously at full capacity, with additional staff and in coordination with the authorities in Romania. After further operational discussions with the Romanian authorities, they agreed to open an additional reversible lane overnight at the Leușeni–Albița customs post. This lane was used for empty trucks, separate from those carrying cargo. In total, 308 trucks were processed through this customs post during the night," the institution stated on October 29.
The lane currently facilitates the flow of passenger cars; however, depending on how traffic volumes evolve, the customs authority noted it will be reopened to process empty trucks.
The Customs Service attributes the heavy traffic at the border to a seasonal increase in grain exports. Furthermore, attacks on infrastructure in Ukraine have intensified the transit of Ukrainian goods through the Republic of Moldova.
"Daily data reflect an increase in the volume of transport processed through border customs posts—in both directions—from approximately 2,000 trucks per 24-hour period a month ago to over 3,000. Even with the increase in the number of trucks being processed, the heightened volume continues to result in waiting times," the Customs Service informs. To streamline traffic, solutions are being identified—in coordination with Romanian authorities—to maximize the efficiency of existing infrastructure and accelerate the intake and processing of trucks on both sides of the border. Shipments of perishable goods continue to receive priority processing by utilizing a dedicated lane reserved for authorized economic operators.
"We appeal for understanding and cooperation from carriers and drivers. The Customs Service acknowledges the difficulties caused by wait times and, together with our partner authorities, is taking every available measure to facilitate the flow of traffic. Customs officers are working continuously to ensure the processing of as many trucks as possible while maintaining safety and adhering to all control procedures," informs the institution.
According to data from the monitoring platform Nakordoni.eu, updated on the morning of October 29, wait times at the Moldovan-Romanian border crossings range from 37 minutes to approximately two hours and 15 minutes.
