**40% Staff Shortage at Tijuana Customs**
Due to federal budget constraints, the Tijuana customs office is currently experiencing a personnel shortage of 40%. This challenge has led to sporadically opening the far-right lanes at the Chaparral border crossing, impacting the time it takes for vehicles to enter Mexico from the United States.
Lieutenant Colonel Alejandro Robles Segura acknowledged this staff shortfall, emphasizing the need for new hires, which he hopes to address by January. Despite this, he stressed that the use of non-intrusive x-ray inspection equipment generates a significant amount of work, and the flow of traffic should improve once staff are properly trained.
During a press meeting, Robles Segura mentioned another issue: drivers misjudging space and hitting bollards in the far-right lanes, which open randomly throughout the day. He noted this has led to punctured tires and lane obstructions.
Since assuming his role in Tijuana a year ago, the customs administrator has noted improvements in crossing times, although previously it took between 3 to 4 hours to cross from the United States into Mexico. Now, vehicles within the lock areas of both the Otay and Chaparral crossings can complete the process in about 4 to 5 minutes to exit into Tijuana’s streets. With 21 lanes now regularly operational, crossing times have notably improved.
Robles Segura further explained that delays can also occur when drivers ignore traffic lights and block lanes, leading to potential vehicle collisions. By strategically opening certain lanes while closing others, he believes it avoids traffic chaos and reduces accidents.
In efforts to enhance operations, modernization of the lanes at Tijuana Customs is underway, which promises to better the functioning of entry and exit gates. A study is also in progress with a partnered company to accurately determine the time taken in light lanes for imports and exports.
**Related News: Increase in Used Car Crossings to Mexico**
Recent reports have highlighted a growing issue at Tijuana customs with a surge in unauthorized used car entries. As of earlier this month, over 3,200 vehicles have piled up at the customs facility. This increase has complicated border operations, straining existing resources and highlighting the urgency of securing additional staff and improving processing efficiency.
Compounding the difficulties is the ongoing absence of Repuve holograms at Tijuana Customs, despite the continued $59 fee charged by Banjército for processing. This discrepancy has been a point of frustration for both customs officials and cross-border travelers, further emphasizing the need for modernization and procedural updates.
The need for improved infrastructure and security measures in Tijuana was also recently underscored by local transport associations, calling for restricted freight traffic to night hours—a proposal currently untenable due to the city’s infrastructural limitations.