With the holiday season around the corner, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is reminding all cross-border and online shoppers of their responsibilities when importing goods to Canada. Canadians traveling south for Black Friday should be aware of the possibility for border lineups upon their return, and should plan their crossing accordingly. Take the stress out of shopping by following these top five border tips:
1. Road trip? Be at the right place, at the right time
We recommend the Emerson port of entry for Manitoba-bound travelers because it is open 24-7 and has the greatest processing capacity during peak travel times. Travelers can also monitor border wait times for Emerson prior to arrival by downloading the CanBorder app. Border-savvy travelers choose to cross in the morning, as weekend lineups tend to build during the afternoon and evening.
2. Know what you owe
There are no personal exemptions for same-day travelers, and your purchases will be subject to applicable duty and taxes. Travelers who have been out-of-country for at least 24 hours are entitled to a CAN$200 exemption, and this increases to CAN$800 once you have been away for 48 hours. Make sure to have the total of your purchases added up, and all your receipts readily available.
3. Save the surprise
When traveling with gifts, wrap them after you re-enter Canada. Otherwise, our officers may need to unwrap them when verifying your declaration at the border.
4. Be a smart online shopper
All international mail coming into Canada is subject to review by the CBSA, so order online gifts early to make sure they arrive in time for the holidays. Also be prepared to pay duty on items worth more than CAN$20. Travelers picking up parcels from the U.S. need to make sure they know the contents and value of each one. Open parcels before arriving at the border and bring an extra copy of the purchase invoice along, as some shippers may not include one in the package. Finally, make sure the goods you want to import are in fact allowed in Canada.
5. Be ready
Just like any other time of the year, and whether you’re driving or flying, have your passport ready, make a full and accurate declaration, and when in doubt, ask the CBSA officer for help. You can also contact our Border Information Service in advance of your crossing if you have any questions.
