In anticipation of increased traffic at the Ogdensburg and Massena border crossings for the Columbus Day weekend, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is offering guidance on how to expedite border crossings for travelers returning through those ports of entry this holiday weekend.

People can prepare for inspection before arriving at the inspection booth by having your WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) enabled 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 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 at http://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/know-before-you-go, to give people the information they will need to avoid fines and penalties associated with the importation of restricted or prohibited items including agriculture products.

CBP advises people to allow for extra time and check border wait times in case of exceptionally heavy traffic. Travelers can check traffic conditions at the Advisories and Wait Times section at http://www.cbp.gov/travel/advisories-wait-times.

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. Additionally, 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 Travel section of the CBP.gov website.

A new downloadable checklist is also now available at http://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/kbyg_travel_smart_checklist.pdf that can be accessed on a smartphone or other device.