Tips for crossing the border during the holiday weekend

NEWS RELEASE

CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION

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DETROIT - U.S. Customs and Border Protection is reminding travelers planning trips across Michigan border crossings with Canada that there are a number of steps that can be taken to facilitate their arrival into the United States during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Travelers should prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth by having their crossing documents out and available for inspection and by being prepared to declare all items acquired outside the U.S.

“We are anticipating heavy holiday traffic starting Thursday” said Christopher Perry, Director, Field Operations. “During these high volume traffic periods, it is important to have your documents ready in order to save time.”

In compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative all travelers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, need to present documentary proof of citizenship.

These documents include a Passport, U.S. Passport Card, trusted traveler card (NEXUS, Global Entry, SENTRI or FAST), Permanent Resident Card or an Enhanced Drivers License.

Children under the age of 16 can present an original or copy of their birth certificate.

Please visit the WHTI website (getyouhome.gov ) for additional information.

Frequent 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.

Both NEXUS and Ready Lanes will be open to facilitate travelers with Radio Frequency ID (RFID) cards.

With the holiday weekend, travelers should expect increased traffic at border crossings and are reminded of a few simple steps they can employ when crossing the border.

Tip #1 – Travelers should familiarize themselves with the “Know Before You Go” section of the CBP website to avoid fines and penalties associated with the importation of prohibited items.

Tip #2 – Travelers should prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth. Travelers should have their crossing documents available for inspection and should be prepared to declare all items acquired abroad.

Tip #3 – Members of the traveling public should consult the CBP website, http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt/ to monitor border wait times at ports of entry. Information is updated hourly and is useful in planning trips and identifying periods of light traffic/short waits.

Tip #4 – During periods of heavy travel, border crossers may wish to consider alternative, less heavily traveled entry routes.

Tip #5 – Travelers should plan to build extra time into their trips in the event they cross during periods of exceptionally heavy traffic like holiday weekends.

Tip #6 – Know the difference between goods for personal use vs. commercial use.

Tip #7 –Do not attempt to bring fruits, meats, dairy/poultry products and firewood into the United States from Canada without first checking whether they are permitted.

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