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Border officials say crossing into Canada and back on Memorial Day Weekend can be easier if travelers are prepared

Posted 5/24/13

U.S. border authorities are again offering tips on how to clear customs in the North Country more quickly as the Memorial Day Weekend approaches. U.S. Customs and Border Protection says that people …

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Border officials say crossing into Canada and back on Memorial Day Weekend can be easier if travelers are prepared

Posted

U.S. border authorities are again offering tips on how to clear customs in the North Country more quickly as the Memorial Day Weekend approaches.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection says that people may prepare for the entry inspection before arriving at the booth. They suggest having your WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) enabled documents or other forms of identification in hand before reaching the booth.

Travelers should declare all items acquired abroad.

CBP thinks it’s a good idea to end cell phone conversations before arriving at the inspection booth. Travelers should also have their windows rolled down for inspection and remove any sunglasses and hats prior to entering the inspection area.

Travelers are encouraged to visit the “Know Before You Go” section of the CBP web site. To avoid fines and penalties associated with the importation of restricted or prohibited items, including agriculture products, you can become educated prior to traveling by visiting http://www.cbp.gov/travel.

They also suggest allowing for extra time and checking border wait times in case of exceptionally heavy traffic. Travelers can get online at www.cbp.gov and select the border crossings within the Alexandria Bay region, and then choose the crossing that is least congested.

Cross-border travelers are encouraged to participate in the NEXUS program, which allows pre-screened, low-risk travelers to proceed with little or no delay into the United States and Canada. Application forms are available on the Canada Border Services Agency website at www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca and travelers can apply online at www.cbp.gov. NEXUS information is available toll-free at 1-866-NEXUS 26 (1-866-639-8726).

For more information on what to expect at a port of entry, document requirements, and prohibited or restricted items, travelers can visit www.GetYouHome.gov