The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has narrowed down five tips to make Manitoban’s return trip to Canada as smooth as possible this Labour Day long weekend.
1. Consider crossing in the morning
The early bird gets the worm, and it’s true at the border, too. The reality is, most lineups start building in the afternoon and get even longer throughout the evening. If it suits your schedule, crossing in the a.m. can pay some big time-saving dividends. The Emerson border crossing has the greatest capacity to process traffic in southern Manitoba and you can check border wait times at Emerson on the CanBorder App. You can also visit the CBSA website to view U.S.-bound or Canada-bound wait times.
2. Keep your ID handy
There’s nothing worse than the sinking feeling of not being able to find your passport. Here’s a tip: Have it out and ready well before you arrive at the border, and you’ll be well on your way to a smooth crossing. No passport? Check our website for a list of other valid travel documents.
3. Do your homework
Not sure whether an item is allowed into Canada? Save the hassle by checking before you buy it. Still not sure? Call our Border Information Service at 1-800-461-9999 (toll-free within Canada) and just ask. Keep your personal exemptions in mind, and remember to save and tally up all your receipts – an officer may ask to see them at the border.
4. Don’t sweat it
Making a full declaration is easy. We know that most of returning Manitobans want to follow the rules, and honesty truly is the best policy. When you declare any purchases or goods you’ve acquired while in the U.S. at the first opportunity, you eliminate the risk of penalties and charges. Say no to smuggling and make a full and accurate declaration.
5. Don’t take it personally
Being sent inside for further examination is no reason to panic. In fact, it’s a completely normal part of the border-crossing experience, and does not mean you have done anything wrong. You could be referred for further examination for any number of reasons, even for a random check.
