REVscene - Vancouver Automotive Forum

Gamed · 09-02-2014, 09:53 AM

One of my plans is the propose to my gf is to propose at Mt Baker Heliotrope Ridge (She has been wanting to go for quite sometimes now)

The question is can I bring the engagement ring ($6000) across the US Border, and then back to Canada?

I guess I have to declare it when crossing US Border, then again, my girlfriend will hear it so its not a surprise anymore?

So is that plan not gonna happen?

Thanks

m3thods · 09-02-2014, 10:18 AM

I brought a ring (not quite that much) with me to propose to my now-fiancee in Oahu. I didn't declare it. I think 10k is the limit. I had it in my camera/computer bag (I'm sure they saw the ring in the xray).

I can't speak for most of humanity, but if I saw some guy travelling with what appeared to be a significant other and I needed to verify that it was a ring, I would bring the guy in for a personal chat away from the SO. But since we're talking TSA, all bets are off.

You can take your chances- I know 3 people personally (including myself) that have done it without issue. With the ring being only 6k, I don't think you need to declare anything unless you have more than 4k in cash as well.

Oh- bring any proof of payment with you. That's a given.

bcrdukes · 09-02-2014, 10:22 AM

I don't know if there is a better way to do this, but what I have done with big ticket items (i.e. electronics / bicycles / cameras etc.) is head to your nearest CBSA office (I usually go to the one at YVR at the International Arrivals terminal) and show them the item with any documents. They will provide you with a green card/ticket with a stamp that indicates it came from Canada.

Having said that, on your way home, it doesn't guarantee a free entry home. CBSA officers may or may not question the validity of the item again so have all your ducks in a row including any paper work. I once brought a bicycle home but they were unsure if my bike was modified so I showed them my original invoice (photocopy) and the bike itself, parts, and serial number etc. and away I went.

Again, there may be a better way and someone with more knowledge an experience - please correct me if I am wrong but I am simply speaking from my own personal and recent experience within the past 2 years.

Oh, and good luck and congrats!

4444 · 09-02-2014, 10:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by m3thods

I brought a ring (not quite that much) with me to propose to my now-fiancee in Oahu. I didn't declare it. I think 10k is the limit. I had it in my camera/computer bag (I'm sure they saw the ring in the xray).

I can't speak for most of humanity, but if I saw some guy travelling with what appeared to be a significant other and I needed to verify that it was a ring, I would bring the guy in for a personal chat away from the SO. But since we're talking TSA, all bets are off.

You can take your chances- I know 3 people personally (including myself) that have done it without issue. With the ring being only 6k, I don't think you need to declare anything unless you have more than 4k in cash as well.

Oh- bring any proof of payment with you. That's a given.

10k is the cash / cash equivalent declaration threshold. a ring is a ring, not cash

m3thods · 09-04-2014, 06:18 AM

Hence the "I think".

Thanks for clarifying.

bcrdukes · 09-04-2014, 01:07 PM

It's safe to say that m3thods perhaps misunderstood the question, or got it confused between bringing an item to/from the Canada/US and the amount of currency allowed while going to/from either countries. I'm sure it was an honest mistake.

finbar · 09-04-2014, 07:51 PM

My wife has an engagement ring on her finger. Crossed the border frequently.
Not a word said.

If you will not be leaving the ring in the US you are not obliged to declare it. That goes for the rest of your chattel, car included.
Bring receipts with you.

Have a fun trip to Mt Baker and a long and happy marriage.