see also: in July 2008:   CBP Discovers 2.7 Tons of Marijuana on Cargo Box Truck   Current, Former CBP Employees Assist in Arrest of Purse Snatchers   CBP Officers Arrest Man Wanted for Failure to Register as Sex Offender   California SENTRI Participant in Hot Water, CBP Finds Dope in Vehicle   CBP Officers Arrest Man Wanted for Aggravated Sexual Assault on Minor   CBP Revokes Trusted Traveler Privileges After Finding Prohibited Items During Inspection ...more on cbp.gov:   CBP News Releases   Press Officers   Know Before You Go

contacts for this news release

Blaine, Wash. - 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 heavy traffic during Canada’s “Civic Day” and British Columbia’s “BC Day” holiday weekend. The August long weekend is traditionally one of the most popular weekends for summer travel.

Identity Documents: All travelers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, are now asked to present proof of citizenship and identity when entering the United States at land and sea ports of entry. This requirement can be met with a passport, NEXUS frequent crosser card, an enhanced British Columbia or Washington State driver’s license, or a birth certificate with a driver’s license. Travelers 18 and under may present just a birth certificate.

Plan Your Trip: Allow extra time for crossing the border check, consult the CBP website site to monitor border wait times and review the "Know Before You Go" tip sheet for additional information concerning your trip into the United States. ( Know Before You Go )

Consider Alternate Ports of Entry: To avoid long delays during the reconstruction phase of the Peace Arch port of entry, border crossers may want to use the nearby and less heavily traveled Pacific Highway, Lynden or Sumas ports of entry.

Avoid Peak Travel Times: The heaviest traffic periods are typically between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and during the summer and holiday season.

Roll Down the Back Seat Windows: Especially if there are passengers in the rear seat compartment, this will assist officer’s inspection of additional travelers and goods.

Be Prepared to Answer Questions: CBP officers will inquire as to your place of residence, purpose of the trip, itinerary and items accompanying you. Answering these questions directly and fully can save you time.

Prohibited Items: Certain fruits, meats and dairy/poultry products are prohibited entry into the United States from Canada and due to harmful pests, firewood is best purchased at your destination. Civil penalties may result from fraudulent declarations.

Enforcement: CBP officers have the authority to conduct examinations without a warrant, ranging from a single luggage examination up to and possibly including a personal search. Even during the summer vacation season, international border crossers should continue to expect a thorough inspection process when they enter the U.S. from Canada.

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.