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Ogdensburg, Massena border crossings may be busy this weekend as border agents predict heavy traffic for long weekend

Posted 2/13/15

U.S. Customs and Border Protection says they expect an increase in border traffic this weekend for President’s Day and Canadian Family Day, which could mean longer than normal waits at Ogdensburg …

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Ogdensburg, Massena border crossings may be busy this weekend as border agents predict heavy traffic for long weekend

Posted

U.S. Customs and Border Protection says they expect an increase in border traffic this weekend for President’s Day and Canadian Family Day, which could mean longer than normal waits at Ogdensburg and Massena crossings.

They remind travelers planning cross-border trips to anticipate delays and prepare accordingly.

The law enforcement agency says they encourage travelers to be familiar with U.S. rules and regulations.

Travelers looking for ways to improve their travel experience should be sure to acquire the appropriate travel document, CBP said. They include passports, U.S. passport cards and enhanced driver’s licenses. A list of all approved travel documents is at www.getyouhome.gov.

Cross-border travelers have the option of joining NEXUS. The program allows pre-screened, low-risk travelers to proceed with little or no delay into the U.S. and Canada, CBP said. 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 1-866-639-8726.

CBP also suggests that people check border wait times, plan ahead and give extra time, CBP said. Travelers can download to their mobile devices CBP’s Border Wait Time app. It shows real-time border-crossing traffic conditions, CBP said. The app is available in both Google Play and Apple stores. Travelers can also get border conditions at www.cbp.gov/travel/advisories-wait-times

If possible travel, during non-peak travel times, CBP suggests. Peak travel times generally tend to be between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. If able, leave the night before to avoid peak traffic delays, CBP said.

Prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth, CBP said. The agency suggests having travel documents in hand, rolling down vehicle windows and removing hats and sunglasses before entering the inspection area.

CBP says travelers can visit the “Know Before You Go” section of their web site. They say becoming acquainted with the laws can avoid fines and penalties associated with the importation of restricted or prohibited items become educated prior to traveling, including agriculture products. The site is at http://www.cbp.gov/travel.

Travelers should declare all items being brought from abroad that will remain in the U.S., including gifts and duty-free purchases, CBP said.

There are numerous agricultural restrictions on fruits, meats, and plants, CBP said. Before bringing these items back, travelers can check the CBP website on bringing agricultural products into the U.S., CBP said.