see also: in December 2005 Press Releases:   New SENTRI/Dedicated Commuter Lane to Open at Calexico/Mexicali Port of Entry Thursday   CBP Border Patrol Agents Arrest Homicide Suspect   CBP Border Patrol Agent Saves Two Mexican Nationals From Drowning   U.S. Joins Revised World Customs Organization Convention   One Ton of Marijuana Seized at Nogales Port of Entry   Another Child Smuggling Arrest at Hidalgo Port   CBP Border Patrol Seizes Over a Ton of Marijuana ...more on cbp.gov:   CBP News Releases   Press Officers   Know Before You Go

contacts for this news release

New York, NY— Today, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) launched the “Know Before You Go, Know Before You Buy” campaign aimed at preparing United States travelers and International visitors for the holiday travel season. Camille Polimeni, CBP Area Director, launched a traveler awareness campaign to kick-off the holiday travel season. She was joined by NYC Department of Consumer Affairs Acting Commissioner Jonathan Mintz who shared holiday shopping tips for consumers.

"Americans traveling abroad this holiday season can make their trips a lot easier by taking just a few extra minutes to 'Know Before You Go,’” said CBP Area Director Polimeni. “CBP’s mission is to facilitate legitimate travel by preventing terrorists and their weapons, as well as other illegal items, from gaining entry to the United States. Educated travelers are our best allies in this cause.”

During the holiday travel season, U.S. citizens are reminded to make sure that all their travel documents are in order, and that they know the rules for bringing back items from their trip before they leave the country. “CBP is here to process your re-entry to the country quickly and efficiently,” said CBP Area Director Camille Polimeni. “Being aware of the rules can help avoid unnecessary lines and delays.”

Travelers should also be aware that CBP officers could seize goods that pose a risk to the consumer or that violate intellectual property rights. Unsuspecting consumers may risk their health and lives or the health and lives of their children when they use fake products. Even something innocuous like toys can pose a risk if they are counterfeit. Fake merchandise may look the same but it is not made to adhere to any standard and lacks quality control.

“Visitors from all over the world come to New York for great shopping, especially for great deals on electronics and other items. While the shopping is great this time of year, we urge travelers to shop smart - know what to look for, know what to avoid, and know your rights. Especially with electronics, what you think may be a good buy could actually be refurbished or a ‘gray market good’ lacking a warranty or functional features.” said Jonathan Mintz, Acting Commissioner of the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs.

By knowing the regulations and what to expect, travelers can help CBP facilitate their travel safely and securely.

Here are a few tips for Americans traveling abroad:

• Your duty-free exemption is $800 if you are a returning U.S. resident and the items you acquired abroad accompany you. There are some exceptions, please check our website for additional information at www.cbp.gov.
• Some food, medical, craftwork and miscellaneous items may be prohibited from entry, have to meet certain requirements, or require a license or permit. If you would like to bring in such items, make sure you find out the rules and regulations concerning them, by checking out www.cbp.gov.
• This holiday season, many travelers may be looking for good deals on items from electronics to toys and apparel. However, keep in mind that items bought from street vendors may not only be counterfeit but could also pose safety risks.

For more information on the latest travel tips, travelers should read the booklet, Know Before You Go, available in the Travel section. ( Know Before You Go )

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) 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.