CHAMPLAIN, N.Y. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations is expecting an increase in border traffic throughout the next week which includes Victoria Day (Canada) this weekend and Memorial Day next weekend. CBP is reminding travelers who are planning trips across the border to anticipate delays and prepare accordingly.
Champlain Port Of Entry, N.Y.
The Ports of Cannons Corner and Churubusco have limited immigration processing capabilities. CBP suggests that travelers requiring immigration document processing use an alternate port of entry.
Border traffic volumes are expected to significantly increase from May 20 through May 30, especially on the weekends.
It’s not too late to get NEXUS for the upcoming busy summer months.
“Smart travelers enroll in the NEXUS program,” said Port Director Paul Mongillo. “NEXUS reduces wait times when crossing the border by land, and also allows members to cut airport wait times by using Global Entry kiosks and TSA Pre-Check."
All travelers are reminded of a few simple steps that can be taken to make their border crossing experience as efficient as possible.
- Acquire the appropriate travel document. Passports, U.S. Passport Cards, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses are just a few of the approved documents.
- Join NEXUS. NEXUS allows pre-screened, low-risk travelers to proceed with little or no delay into the U.S. and Canada. NEXUS is $50 for 5 years and children under 18 are free. NEXUS members who are U.S. citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, or Canadian citizens also receive the benefits of TSA Pre-Check. Apply for a NEXUS card today at GOES or visit the Trusted Traveler Programs section of the CBP website at www.CBP.gov.
- Check border wait times. Plan ahead. Give yourself extra time. Check traffic conditions at the border crossings within the region and select the crossing that is least congested. Travelers can download CBP’s Border Wait Time “APP” to their mobile devices for real time border crossing traffic conditions. The app is available in both Google Play and Apple stores. Travelers can also obtain current border traffic conditions at www.cbp.gov/travel/advisories-wait-times
- Beat the rush. Cross during off peak times which are generally before 7 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
- Be ready. Have your travel documents in hand, roll down vehicle windows and remove hats and sunglasses before 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 www.cbp.gov/travel.
- Declare your goods. Travelers should declare all items being brought from abroad that will remain in the U.S. This includes gifts and Duty Free purchases.
- Food and plants. There are numerous agricultural restrictions on fruits, meats, and plants. Before bringing these items back, check the CBP website on bringing agricultural products into the U.S. If you decide to take your chances and bring it with you, be certain to declare it, and be willing to surrender it if it turns out to be prohibited.
- Declare all firearms. Travelers are reminded that specific requirements must be met to import or export firearms and ammunition to/from the United States. For more information visit the ATF, State Dept., and Commerce Dept. websites.