Tips for going through U.S. customs with peace of mind

Tips for going through U.S. customs with peace of mind
To get through customs easily by car, follow these tips from Desjardins Insurance.

Few people are Zen when crossing the American border by car. Smile, everything will be fine with these few tips.

Many Canadians cross the border from the United States to sunny destinations or visit major urban centers like Boston and New York. While some pass through US customs regularly, others do so infrequently or will soon be doing so for the first time. One thing is certain, this part of the journey is always a little stressful. Relax and follow these few tips to make your life easier and avoid worries.
1. Have the right documents on hand
Passport required
It is essential to have your passport in your possession when the day comes. This must be valid for at least the next four months. If you don't already have a passport, plan ahead to get it in time for your trip. For permanent residents of Canada, it is a good idea to contact the US embassy or consulate in your province of residence to determine whether or not you need a visa.
Consent letter
Children under the age of 18 who are traveling with only one parent or another adult must have a certified consent letter on hand stating that each parent has authorized the trip. Sample letters for parents to complete and sign can be found on the Government of Canada website, along with Frequently Asked Questions with lots of useful information on the subject.
Papers relating to your vehicle
As always, it is important to have all the documents relating to the vehicle you are driving in your possession. In addition to your driver's license, which is recognized throughout the United States, you should have your registration papers and vehicle insurance certificates handy. In fact, make sure you are covered outside the country in the event of an incident with your vehicle. And, since you can never be too careful, keep an Accident Report Document (PDF) Disclaimer: This PDF is for printing. It is not optimized for screen readers. If you have any questions about what information to exchange with the other driver in the event of an accident, contact us at 1 888 776-8343. , This link will open in a new window. in the car, just in case.
2. Answer questions with a smile
You can prepare to answer as best you can, in English, these few questions that the border services officer will ask you: Where do you live? Where are you going and for what reason (vacation, business, shopping, etc.)? How long will you be staying there? What is your profession? Do you have any food products with you, and if so, which ones? Stay calm and answer all of his questions bluntly, give him your best vacationer's smile and greet him as you leave, without overdoing it though.
3. Declare any food on board
It is common to travel with food, whether for a snack on the way or to feed the troops for a few days while camping.
Be aware that goat and lamb meat is not allowed to pass through US customs, whether raw or cooked.
Do you have fruits and vegetables from Canada or the United States? Keep the labels on the products that attest to this.
Also keep the various packages of meat that will attest to their content and origin. In short, it is best to leave your delicious lasagna at home.
4. Provide your pet's documents
You and your pet are inseparable, even when traveling? Be aware that if you choose to bring kitty or kitty with you on vacation to the United States, you will need to show your paw prints. Your dog or cat aged three months and over must have a certificate of vaccination against rabies dated and signed by a veterinarian. However, service dogs are not covered by this regulation when accompanying their owner.
5. Think about what you can bring back
Before setting off on the journey home, think about what you want to bring home. We recommend that you consult the Canadian government website where you will find all the information on what is allowed to report depending on the length of your stay in the United States. We also recommend that you keep the invoices and labels, which will facilitate the work of customs officials and save you time in the event of an inspection.