US/Canada border crossing links/guidance

[ajg617]

Thinking about a 'short-cut' through Ontario from Buffalo to Michigan and trying to collect information on what we can/can't should/shouldn't bring either direction. From what I've read so far, when crossing into Canada, leave refrig empty in the RV. Haven't found anything on the US CBP site that references restricted items yet - still looking. Start of a long trip from NH to ID so refrig was going to be pretty stocked, but doesn't look like vegetables/fruits/meats are a good idea? Plan was to stay at a HH winery in Ontario and head to Michigan but assuming limited alcoholic beverages to/from US/Canada?

If you have any good links or guidance, please let me know. Haven't been to Canada since 1990s and only needed a drivers license then. For such a short trip (prep for a longer Canadian venture later) may be worth an extra travel day to stay in the US?

Thanks,
John

[NB Canada]

Best to check the list on the CBSA website for a current list
Citrus fruits are a Nono both ways I believe and chicken products was recently added
Of course zero weapons including mace are allowed
I don’t know about the alcohol
And of course all passengers must pass a criminal record check including dui

[trailrydr]

We've heard its hit and miss on what type of inspection one with an RV recieves at the Canadian border. We are heading thru Canada this Spring and will do it with a car only due to the testimonials we have read or heard about on the US/Canadian border dealing with RVs.

[Castlerock]

@ajg617

Do you have a Nexus card? Or at least enough time to get one?

Makes crossing the boarder (both ways) quick and easy.

Best $50 US every 5 years I've ever spent.

As stated earlier, check the CBSA website for the latest requirements.

[trailrydr]

@ajg617

Do you have a Nexus card? Or at least enough time to get one?

Makes crossing the boarder (both ways) quick and easy.

Best $50 US every 5 years I've ever spent.

As stated earlier, check the CBSA website for the latest requirements.

We have heard of long Nexus approval wait times and lists due to COVID, is this still true?

Also, is it worth the cash, process and wait time if only traveling once or twice to Canada?

[Castlerock]

The waits for Canadians seeking Nexus cards have been long due to COVID and a diplomatic dispute involving protections for US CBA officers working outside of Canadian airports. Not sure if it is the same for American citizens.

I think it is wort it.

We travel to the US once or twice a year, and it is also a benefit for Canadians returning from countries other than the US.

Prior to Nexus, I've done the 'drive thru' from Sault Ste Marie to Port Huron/Sarnia. Told the border agents on both sides what I was doing and proceeded without any problems.

If planning to spend any time in Canada, CBSA might give you a more vigorous questioning.

Another benefit is when traveling by air it gives you TSA pre clearance and priority screening in Canada.

[ajg617]

@ajg617

Do you have a Nexus card? Or at least enough time to get one?

Makes crossing the boarder (both ways) quick and easy.

Best $50 US every 5 years I've ever spent.

As stated earlier, check the CBSA website for the latest requirements.

Even with an RV in tow?

[orbsah]

Of course zero weapons including mace are allowed

Thought I read bear spray is OK if you declare it. I haven’t tried so I can’t confirm.

[Castlerock]

Even with an RV in tow?

I haven't done it personally, but I do have friends with Nexus cards who have taken their RV's into the US using the dedicated Nexus lanes at the land crossing in Idaho.

I was going to do it a couple of years ago but COVID cancelled that trip.

Once again, check the CBSA website or see if you can directly contact the border crossing you intend to use. From your initial post I assume you would be crossing at Fort Erie, Ontario.

[Castlerock]

Check the following for entrance requirements.

https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-v...c-rnc-eng.html