November 24, 2008
Pembina N.D. - U.S. Customs and Border Protection is reminding travelers planning trips across the border into the United States to make sure they have their proper documents and to anticipate times of heavy traffic during Thanksgiving and the upcoming holiday season.
Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November at the end of the harvest season, and it is an annual American Federal holiday to give thanks for one's material and spiritual possessions. Thanksgiving is the start of the holiday season that ends after New Year's Day. Border traffic volumes are expected to greatly increase during this holiday season and all travelers are reminded of a few simple steps they can employ to cross the border.
Plan your trip and allow extra time for crossing the border. Consult the CBP web site to monitor border wait times and review the "Know Before You Go" tip sheet.(Know Before You Go )
Avoid peak travel times when at all possible. The heaviest traffic periods are typically between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Be prepared to show proof of citizenship and identity to enter the United States. This can include a passport, trusted traveler program card (NEXUS), an enhanced driver's license or a birth certificate with a conventional driver's license. Travelers 18 and under can present just a birth certificate.
Travelers are advised to declare all agriculture products including firewood and kindling. Those individuals who are transporting agricultural products (including firewood and kindling) are subject to additional inspection by CBP agriculture specialists. Most firewood and kindling from Canada is prohibited and will be refused at the border. If firewood and kindling is brought across the border, travelers may be required to return it to Canada. Failure to properly declare agriculture products may result in delays and civil penalties (fines) for violations.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
