Port Angeles, WA – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reminds travelers planning trips across the border into the United States to make sure they have their proper documents and to anticipate possible heavy traffic during the observance of Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Canada on November 11.
Border traffic volumes are expected to be increased during this holiday weekend and all travelers are reminded of a few simple steps they can employ to cross the border more efficiently.
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), implemented on June 1, 2009 requires U.S. and Canadian citizens, age 16 and older to present a valid, acceptable document that denotes both identity and citizenship when entering the U.S. by land or sea. WHTI-approved travel documents include a passport, U. S. passport card, enhanced driver's licenses (EDLs) or a Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST).
Here are a few 'Travel Tips' that will assist travelers crossing the international border:
Tip #1 - Travelers should familiarize themselves with the "Know Before You Go" to avoid fines and penalties associated with the importation of prohibited items. "Know Before You Go" brochures are also available at border ports. For more information, please visit the "Know Before You Go" section of the CBP website.
Tip #2 - Travelers should prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth. Individuals should have their crossing documents available for the inspection and they should be prepared to declare all items acquired abroad. In addition, individuals should end cellular phone conversations before arriving at the inspection booth.
Tip #3 - Travelers should plan to build extra time into their trips in the event they cross during periods of exceptionally heavy traffic.
Tip # 4 - Understand that CBP officers have the authority to conduct enforcement examinations without a warrant, ranging from a single luggage examination up to and possibly including a personal search.
Tip #5 -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.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection want importers and the traveling public to know that mandarin oranges or "Christmas Oranges" are banned from import into the United States.
"Typically we see an influx of Christmas Oranges around the holiday season and when Canadian citizens' travel to southern states for the winter," said Port Angeles Port Director Daniel Horsman. "We just want to get the word out that these products are prohibited from being imported into the United States."