American Thanksgiving Day has passed, but many people are enjoying an extended weekend to shop, attend sports events, and spend time with loved ones.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is expected to handle larger volumes of traffic than usual through Sunday evening. Long wait times are likely in Windsor at the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel and Ambassador Bridge, as well as the Blue Water Bridge in Sarnia. The CBSA has provided tips to ensure that crossing the border this weekend is as smooth as possible.
Whether you're planning to head to the States for Black Friday bargains, attend the Michigan-Ohio State football game in Ann Arbor, or something else, the CBSA suggests having multiple crossing options if possible. Traveling during non-peak times, such as early morning or late evening, may also be helpful. Traditionally, the Sunday after American Thanksgiving is the busiest day at the border.
Be sure to have all proper documentation ready before you approach the booth, such as passports and permanent residency cards. For Black Friday shoppers, have your receipts ready and declare anything purchased outside of Canada.
If you go shopping at a brick-and-mortar store or pick up an online purchase and bring it back to Canada, know your exemption limits.
Bringing cannabis products over the border is not allowed. Although recreational marijuana use is legal across Canada and the state of Michigan, it can not be brought over unless you have a valid exemption or permit issued by Health Canada. CBSA agents will not accept a prescription from a physician.
Products include those with or without the ingredient THC, which creates the "high". If you are caught smuggling cannabis, you could face legal penalties and even a permanent travel ban.
The CBSA has also encouraged travellers to be open and honest if there are questions about what can be brought in or what to do. Agents are there to help.
