The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) is reminding travellers to plan ahead during their travels this Canada Day long weekend.
The CBSA is predicting an increase in the amount of traffic at ports of entry in Eastern and Northern Ontario. One way to beat the border rush is by crossing during non-peak hours. The CBSA suggest that no matter what is on the agenda you plan to cross the border in the morning, especially if you cross on Sunday or Monday when peak hours are between 3:00pm and 9:00pm.
The CBSA want travellers crossing at Lansdowne in Thousand Islands to be aware that there is currently construction taking place for a new facility. As a result reduced processing lanes may cause travellers and commercial vehicles to be delayed. During peak hours travellers may choose to enter Canada through the Prescott port of entry.
Some of the tips the CBSA would like to remind travellers of include:
Plan your border crossing – Check border wait times using the CanBorder App and cross at the least busy port of entry in the area.
Know your purchases and keep travel documents handy – Know your personal exemptions and restrictions and make sure that each passenger has the correct travel document. Have your travel documents and receipts in hand when you arrive at the border.
Be sure to declare all purchases or acquisitions when returning to Canada – You can refer to the I Declare publication on the CBSA website for more information.
Know the contents of your vehicle – Travellers can consult the CBSA’s website for information on firearms, firewood, and fireworks.
Pre-registration of travel information for private boaters – Boaters can take advantage of the new pre-registration feature by emailing information to the CBSA prior to their trip. It will speed up processing when they call in to report their entry to Canada.
Not sure? Ask the CBSA officer – The single best thing you can do to save time returning to Canada is to simply be open and honest with the CBSA officer. If you are not sure about what to declare, don’t hesitate to ask. The officers are there to help you.
If you would like more information about border-crossing you can visit the CBSA website at www.cbsa.gc.ca or contact Border Information Services at 1‑800‑461-9999.
