Buffalo, N.Y. - U.S. Customs and Border Protection is reminding travelers planning trips across the border into the United States to make sure they have the proper documents this weekend in conjunction with the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday. As a result, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials want to remind the traveling public that there are a number of steps that can be taken to facilitate their arrival into the United States.
Travelers are reminded to check traffic at all local border crossings within the Buffalo/Niagara region and select the crossing that is least congested. The most significant delays that occurred last Thanksgiving holiday weekend were on Sunday between the hours of 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. at all three Buffalo/Niagara region border crossing points.
Travelers can easily obtain current border traffic conditions by calling the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission’s toll free number at 1-800-715-6722 or by visiting any of the following Web sites. ( CBP HomePage ) , ( www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca ) , ( nittec.org ) , ( peacebridge.com ) and ( niagarafallsbridges.com ) .
Travelers should prepare for the inspection process before arriving at the inspection booth. Individuals should have their crossing documents available for inspection and they should be prepared to declare all items acquired outside the U.S. In compliance with full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, which commenced June 1, 2009, all travelers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, will need to present documentary proof of citizenship. These documents include a Passport, U.S. Passport Card, trusted traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST) or an Enhanced Drivers License. Children under the age of 16 can present an original or copy of their birth certificate. CBP will remain practical and flexible in its approach to full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and will continue to educate and inform the traveling public. Please visit the WHTI Web site for additional information. ( getyouhome.gov )
Frequent cross-border travelers are encouraged to participate in the NEXUS program, which allows pre-screened, low risk travelers to proceed with little or no delay into the United States and Canada. Application forms are available on the Canada Border Services Agency Web site at and travelers can apply on. Additionally, NEXUS information is available toll-free at 1-866-NEXUS 26 (1-866-639-8726). ( www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca )
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.
Contacts For This News Release
Gregory Bennett
CBP Public Affairs
Phone: (716) 626-0400 Ext: 204
CBP Headquarters
Office of Public Affairs
1300 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Room 3.4A
Washington, DC 20229 Phone: (202) 344-1780 or
(800) 826-1471
Fax: (202) 344-1393
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