Customs and Border Protection expect heavy traffic at the U.S. and Canadian border crossings as the holiday weeks approach.

Agents are asking travelers to prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth by having their WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) enabled documents in hand before reaching inspection.

Travelers should declare all items acquired abroad. Additionally, individuals 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. To avoid fines and penalties associated with the importation of restricted or prohibited items become educated prior to traveling, this includes agriculture products. Please visit http://www.cbp.gov/travel.

Allow for extra time and check border wait times in case of exceptionally heavy traffic. Travelers should check traffic conditions at the border crossings within the Alexandria Bay region and select the crossing that is least congested.

Travelers can easily obtain current border traffic conditions at www.cbp.gov.

Cross-border travelers are encouraged to participate in the NEXUS program. NEXUS 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.

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.