U.S. Customs and Border Protection is offering guidance on how to ease border crossings for travelers returning through the Massena and Ogdensburg ports of entry this Memorial Day weekend.

People can prepare for inspection before arriving at the inspection booth. They can have their identification documents in hand before reaching primary inspection. Travelers should declare all items acquired abroad. People should end cellular phone conversations before arriving at the inspection booth. Travelers should also have their windows rolled down for inspection and remove 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 agricultural products, people can become educated prior to traveling.

Travelers should check traffic conditions at the border crossings, allow for extra time in case of exceptionally heavy traffic, and maybe even chose another crossing if one is crowded.

Travelers can easily obtain border traffic conditions at the Advisories and Wait Times section on CBP.gov.

CBP encourages cross-border travelers 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 the travel section of the CBP.gov website.