Traffic Jams at the Border: Thousands of Trucks Between Russia and Kazakhstan. The Situation Is Worsening

October 15, 2025.

Trucks continue to pile up on the Kazakhstan–Russia border—industry sources estimate queues of two to five thousand vehicles. The most strained crossings remain Bugristoye, Karasu, and Mashtakovo.

Causes of the Transport Gridlock

The problem is multifaceted.

First, new migration rules took effect in Russia this fall, limiting foreign nationals’ stay to 90 days per year. Carriers report an acute shortage of drivers with valid entry permissions, especially on cross-border routes.

Second, controls have tightened on the origin of goods and so-called “grey imports.”

The Federal Customs Service has deployed mobile teams along the border to conduct spot inspections of vehicles. The agency says the measures target illegal schemes, but businesses report widespread delays and bureaucratic holdups.

Kazakhstan: A Barrier to Trade

Kazakhstan describes the situation as a barrier to mutual trade and has already appealed to the Eurasian Economic Commission. The issue is on the EEC agenda for October 13 and November 7.

Despite efforts by the authorities, trucks are idling for up to seven days at certain checkpoints, and logistics companies warn of missed delivery deadlines and rising costs.

The China–Kazakhstan Border Is Jammed Too

Backups are also observed on the Kazakhstan–China border.

Around 10,000 trucks are reportedly waiting for processing at the Dostyk–Alashankou section. Authorities are negotiating to increase the number of transport permits, which could ease pressure on the route.

Industry Commentary

Ivan Savushkin, Commercial Director, “Naviniya Rus”:

“Wherever possible, we use direct routes into Russia. Alternatives involve rail transport. We try to track such risks in advance so clients don’t get caught in unpredictable queues.

Complications at crossings immediately affect rates—there’s already a 10–20% increase for shipments transiting Kazakhstan. Overall, road transport remains the market’s most dynamic and volatile segment.

To our knowledge, the issue is being addressed at the ministerial level, but there are no clear timelines yet. In the long term, electronic queuing systems and advance route planning could help.”

Pavel Salkovsky, Senior Specialist, Commercial Department, ACEX:

“The situation on the border with Kazakhstan is indeed deteriorating. We recommend using alternative crossings—Manzhouli, Zabaikalsk, or Erenhot—as well as considering sea and air as more predictable and faster options.

Route flexibility and timely communication with partners help avoid downtime and keep logistics under control.”

Bottom Line

Experts note the problem is systemic.

Whenever controls tighten, the border “locks up.” The issue can only be solved by striking a balance between security and speed.

ACEX Alliance continues to monitor the situation and helps partners build routes that ensure reliable, on-time delivery.