see also: in June 2008:   CBP in New Orleans Offers Tips for International Air Travelers for Summer Season   CBP Offers Tips for International Air Travelers in Memphis for Summer Season   U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Host San Diego Hiring Event   Baltimore CBP Recovers Stolen Vehicle Being Shipped Overseas   Border Patrol Agents Seize Cocaine, Methamphetamines and Marijuana   Canada, U.S. Sign Arrangement to Align Security Standards for Cross-Border Business   CBP, Texas Strengthen Partnership to Ensure Border Security ...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 both Americans and Canadians planning their summer holiday season travels that there are several simple steps they can employ to cross the border quickly.

"Consider alternate ports of entry as your best bet to avoid long delays," said Assistant Port Director Jamie Rector. "Don’t rely on your GPS (global positioning system) to choose your point of entry."

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 crossing, Lynden or Sumas ports of entry. The Pacific Highway Crossing is located one mile east of the Peace Arch crossing and offers a viable nearby alternative to the Peace Arch.

Southbound travelers from the Vancouver, B.C., metropolitan area can use Highway 1 and 1A for a short eastbound diversion to cross into the U.S. at the ports of Lynden or Sumas. Both ports offer direct access to the Bellingham, Wash., area and reconnect with Interstate 5 southbound in Bellingham.

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. and during the summer season there may be little distinction between a weekday and weekend.

Be prepared to show proof of citizenship and identity to enter the United States at land and sea ports of entry. 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.

Consult the US Customs and Border Protection tip sheet ‘Know Before You Go’ for questions concerning your trip into the United States. ( Know Before You Go )

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.