see also: in December 2008:   CBP Lists Top 10 Enforcement Events of 2008   CBP Seizes $200K in Undeclared Currency; Arrest 1 at Texas Port   Marfa Sector Agents Apprehend Murder Suspect   San Ysidro Port Modernization Deployment Temporarily Reduces Lanes   Border Patrol Agents Assist in Locating Distressed Individual   CBP Officers Stop Man at Michigan Border Crossing Wanted for Aggravated Sexual Assault   Holiday Surprise; CBP Unwraps 312 Pounds of Khat in December ...more on cbp.gov:   CBP News Releases   Press Officers   Know Before You Go

contacts for this news release

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 this year’s celebration of the Christmas holiday season. Travelers are reminded of a few simple steps they can employ to cross the border.

1. 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 )
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Consider alternate ports of entry to avoid long delays.
5. Be advised that if you are crossing at a port of entry that has a NEXUS lane, only those travelers that possess NEXUS cards and have the card in their possession may utilize the NEXUS lane when it is operational.
6. Do not attempt to bring unauthorized fruits, meats and dairy/poultry products into the United States from Canada without first checking whether they are permitted.
7. If bringing presents across the border, ensure that any festive wrappings do not obstruct inspection of the items. Simple alternatives are to leave one end open for inspection or wrap the gift item at your final destination.

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.