[MG1]

I cross into the US often. At least once a week, on average twice a week, and sometimes every two days, LOL.

I've noticed a sharp increase in cars heading down south the last few months, and since the media started to tell people that Canadian border guards weren't charging duties and taxes, it has gotten even worse.

I thought a thread to discuss border crossing would be a good idea.

Tips and tricks on when and where to go......

bargains, places to visit, shipping, laws of the land, speed traps, making the most of your trip, etc.

[jeedee]

Tips and tricks on when and where to go......

bargains, places to visit, shipping, laws of the land, speed traps, making the most of your trip, etc.

...Well...I'm waiting MG1 for your tips and tricks on when and where to go, bargains, places to visit, shipping, laws of the land, speed traps, making the most of your trip tips :troll:

[MG1]

I'll start off.

Cheapest place for a quick bite, if you're headed out to the Outlet Mall, Seattle, or beyond, is Angel of the Winds Casino. Gas prices there are pretty decent there too. My favourite is the strawberry shortcake for 99¢ and the shrimp cocktail for $1.49. Another favourite is the chilli and cheese fries for 99¢. Then there's the free pop and coffee throughout the casino and free milk at the same place you get the 99¢ deals (Katie's Kitchen).

Angel of the Winds - Foods and Beverages (http://www.angelofthewinds.com/dining/katies)

You sign up for their card (Totem Card, LOL), you get $5 free slot play (pretty much standard at all casinos) and free coffee mug, 7 cents off per gallon at their 24/7 gas station.

The gas prices at the casino are about the same as that of Costco the next exit over, but being 24/7, it's a good alternative. Here's what kind of killed it for me, though.......... you cannot pay for your gas until you input your zip code. And no, 90210 doesn't work. Neither does 98295 (Sumas) or 98230 (Blaine), because it links with your credit card. Here's what I found out on a recent visit to their gas station. All you do is take the numbers in your postal code and add two zero's.

If your postal code is V4Y 2J6, your zip code would be 42600. Kind of cool. I wAnder if this works at other gas stations down south.

Angels of the Wind is about 3kms off the beaten path (north of I5 exit 210), but if you like cheap food and casinos like I do, it's worth it. Another reason I went to Angel of the Winds last time was, I thought only the Bellingham Costco checked for jerry can size. Apparently, all Costco gas stations check, including the one in Burlington. I took two 25 litre jerry cans with me. Washington law only permits vehicles to carry cans with capacity up to 22.7 litres. They will not allow you to fill up with that amount in a larger can. It has to do with the capacity of the can itself. So, Angel of the Winds gas station is Self Serve..... problem solved.

[MG1]

...Well...I'm waiting MG1 for your tips and tricks on when and where to go, bargains, places to visit, shipping, laws of the land, speed traps, making the most of your trip tips :troll:

I'm working on it.........

thanks

[finbar]

Here's what I found out on a recent visit to their gas station. All you do is take the numbers in your postal code and add two zero's.

If your postal code is V4Y 2J6, your zip code would be 42600. Kind of cool. I wonder if this works at other gas stations down south.
I'm trying this, thanks :)

I'm off to Whidby island Tuesday, Swinomish (http://www.gaspricewatch.com/WA-washington/Anacortes/gas-prices/page-1/2.htm) Chevron is about the same as Costco. No zip code required at the pump.



I've noticed a sharp increase in cars heading down south the last few months, and since the media started to tell people that Canadian border guards weren't charging duties and taxes, it has gotten even worse.
Not sure CBSA (http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/help-aide/faq1-eng.html#_s1) is aware of this as of my return last Monday.

[SoulCrusher]

Tip: Nexus is a great investment
Posted via RS Mobile

[jeedee]

Any recommendations for US sim cards?

Or should I just prepare for the roaming charges :fuckthatshit:

[Kaolinite]

The Canadian border only waive the duty fees during peak hours

Seattle Premium Outlets has a sale IIRC...was there last week and pretty much every store was 40-50% off or BOGO

[XplicitLuder]

cool ^ took the 4th off to head down with le gf, guess im bringing like 1k cash :lawl:

[racerman88]

Nexus has definitely paid itself off many times over

[!SG]

nexus...

went down to JUST pick up a ypipe,

the regular line up was 50mins long.

took me 5mins to get across the border, and 3mins to cross back. this was last long weekend!

[murd0c]

a good trick is hitting up duty free on the way down if theres a big line up. Buy some water and chips and you can bypass a lot of cars.

As well Mi Mexico in Bellingham has killer Mexican food!!

[VrrM604]

a good trick is hitting up duty free on the way down if theres a big line up. Buy some water and chips and you can bypass a lot of cars.

As well Mi Mexico in Bellingham has killer Mexican food!!
I did that about a week and a half ago on a Thursday and still ended up waiting over an hour and 15 mins, probably saved about 15 mins. I guess many people are catching on to this

[6o4__boi]

a good trick is hitting up duty free on the way down if theres a big line up. Buy some water and chips and you can bypass a lot of cars

As well Mi Mexico in Bellingham has killer Mexican food!!

Nah, not so good anymore since everyone knows about it.
Nexus all the way.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Gh0stRider]

nexus ftw.

i went down on the long weekend when the line up at 7am was 3 hrs. i got through in 5-10 mins.

[urban.boi]

Any recommendations for US sim cards?

Or should I just prepare for the roaming charges :fuckthatshit:

T-Mobile, prepaid card with data. just as for the $3 a day plan. data+voice for $3 a day only when u use it.
Unlt nationwide voice, unlt nationwide texting, unlt web (first 200MB / day at 4G speed then 3G after)

[MG1]

Any recommendations for US sim cards?

Or should I just prepare for the roaming charges :fuckthatshit:

I have a Roam Mobility phone that I paid 50 bucks for. Anytime I go for more than a day in the States, I activate the phone. $3.00 a day unlimited calling to anywhere in US and Canada. I've used it a few times and it has been good. You can top off on line, which is convenient in case I decide to stay a little longer.

Some people have had issues, but for me, it has been very good. I guess the issue has been with people trying to use their iPhones. I just bought one of their no frills, el cheapo phones. No headaches, they set it up. It's not for everybody, but for guys like me who rarely call except for emergencies, it's good.

Travel Free from USA Roaming Fees - Roam Mobility (http://www.roammobility.com/)

[Gh0stRider]

Any recommendations for US sim cards?

Or should I just prepare for the roaming charges :fuckthatshit:

ROAM mobility

[MG1]

I still have the Nexus application sitting on my desk. I really should send it off.

I go across early in the morning, so there is no issue of line ups. There are times I'm stuck coming back. I usually listen to traffic radio 730 AM and cross where ever the line up is shortest.

264th is usually not bad, although it is not open 24 hours. Gives me an excuse to go get ice cream at Edaleen Dairy, LOL.

BTW, any of you guys been to the location in Lynden? Their official "Ice Cream Shoppe." Any place that spells shop, shoppe, has to be good, LOL.

On the topic of Lynden, Washington, it is a cute little town. Typical small town USA. Manicured lawns, white picket fences, majority white people - smiles and chuckles types with blonde hair, etc. Amercan flags in front of house. I love it. The town is obsessed with windmills. I think there are a lot of Dutch immigrants living there. Anyway, it's worth taking a side trip to Lynden, Washington......... about 10 minutes south of US/Canada border at the Aldergrove crossing (Guide Meridian).

[CT10]

T-Mobile is good too, $3 for unlimited data talk and text per day, but you'd have to buy your own sim card which I think is $20?

[jeedee]

Thanks for the help guys.

I'll probably end up using Roam Mobility.

[shenmecar]

ROAM mobility

this!!!!!!

Premium Outlets shoppers should sign up for this:

https://www.premiumoutlets.com/vip/index.asp

Its free and you can get coupons. Some stores will accept the coupon on top of their current in-store promotions. For example, Puma had a 40% off in store promo last week and I got to use a 20% off coupon on top of that. It came to 52% off the total. (Note that you should try to use it even if the coupon says "cannot combine with other promos")
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

^I've been a member for a couple of years and it's been good. The club membership is good for both outlets - Seattle Premium (Tulalip) and North Bend Premium.

Too bad I wear grandpa clothes, LOL.

................and only have 20 dollas in ma pocket.

[shenmecar]

^I've been a member for a couple of years and it's been good. The club membership is good for both outlets - Seattle Premium (Tulalip) and North Bend Premium.

Too bad I wear grandpa clothes, LOL.

................and only have 20 dollas in ma pocket.

Actually it's for all "Premium Outlets" in the States, you just choose the outlet you want coupons for.
I only learned of this membership last week but I've been going to the outlets for years lol

Posted via RS Mobile

[nma]

you nexus guys... do you fill out that form every time you cross the border with purchased good? or do you just declare what you bought to the dude sitting at the booth?

[Kaolinite]

^ i use a verbal declaration to the man/lady at the booth.. even coming over with $600 of goods and a bottle of wine they usually dgaf :D

[nma]

okay, thanks! I think you're supposed to be filling out that stupid ass form and dropping it off but I don't know how they react to that.. Now I know at least..

[tipy]

since the media started to tell people that Canadian border guards weren't charging duties and taxes, it has gotten even worse.



are you serious about no tax at the border?

[SoulCrusher]

It was a segment the media did last week. It was about long line ups due the long weekend and about how officers were being extra lenient on duties and taxes. The segment was specific to times of longer line ups than the norm. Don't expect not to be taxed otherwise.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Gh0stRider]

ya i went and brought back $400+, no tax

[Gh0stRider]

Canadian border: long waits, overtime and waived taxes | Globalnews.ca (http://globalnews.ca/news/761128/canadian-border-long-waits-overtime-and-waived-taxes/)

This holiday long weekend is Canada Border Services (CBS) second busiest time after Black Friday and for the province’s taxpayers, it’s an expensive weekend.

For Canadian border guards, Sunday and Monday will be long days when the exodus of thousands of holidaying British Columbians return home. And while some border guards will be paid overtime salaries, there are reports that many travelers will have their duty fees waived by guards.

This weekend last year almost 100,000 vehicles crossed into the U.S. and the Pacific Region border guards charged more than $11 million in overtime.

At the same time, CBS has been told to wave those same-day shoppers through and not collect taxes and duties to prevent the types of lineups that occurred into the U.S. on Friday. Wait times were nearing four hours to cross.

“Small business are impacted when these things happen when people are waved through the border and don’t have to pay duty,” says Mike Klassen, Canadian Federation of Independent Business. “Of course they are going to go where it’s cheaper and easier to get, but let’s make the playing field as fair as possible.”

Other critics say the real issue is the high tariffs and taxes we pay on goods on this side of the border; which is what ultimately creates such long lineups, and costly overtime for border guards.

“That’s the bigger problem that the politicians don’t want to talk about,” says Jordan Bateman from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. “There was a report done by the senate, that looked at billions of dollars more than Canadian consumers have to spend for identical products to what you can get in the United States – and it all comes down to taxes and tariffs.”

For now, most drivers Global BC talked to say the bargains in the U.S. are still worth the wait. But be warned, the CBS is saying the return traffic back into B.C. on Sunday and Monday could be even worse.

[XplicitLuder]

lol ive been going once a week for the last month, i get taxed EVERYTIME, even on 200$ worth of stuff.

[Gh0stRider]

lol ive been going once a week for the last month, i get taxed EVERYTIME, even on 200$ worth of stuff.

:lawl:

[nma]

came back from hawaii last weekend, had $1200 worth of stuff. Allowed to bring $800, got taxed on $400.. Not a big deal... Mind you that was in the airport..

[ShadowBun]

lol ive been going once a week for the last month, i get taxed EVERYTIME, even on 200$ worth of stuff.

maybe you got flagged

[FN-2199]

lol ive been going once a week for the last month, i get taxed EVERYTIME, even on 200$ worth of stuff.

I'll remember to never cross or associate myself with you when crossing :lawl:

[Coren]

If you are crossing the border in a car with people carrying nexus card and people without, can the people without nexus get out of the car and walk through inside and rejoin the vehicle after crossing?

[matrixfwd]

Do the WA McD's still have the $4.99 for 20 McNuggets and the $1 value menu (which includes a full size McChicken)?

[ShadowBun]

Do the WA McD's still have the $4.99 for 20 McNuggets and the $1 value menu (which includes a full size McChicken)?
Yep. Can confirm they do.

If you are crossing the border in a car with people carrying nexus card and people without, can the people without nexus get out of the car and walk through inside and rejoin the vehicle after crossing?

lol interesting idea. Should be able to, but likely the person w/ nexus will have to wait a bit.

[hungryRR]

came back from hawaii last weekend, had $1200 worth of stuff. Allowed to bring $800, got taxed on $400.. Not a big deal... Mind you that was in the airport..

you're lucky they didn't tax you on the whole $1200. I remember I went over my limit and they said once you're over you forfeit your allowance and pay the full amount or maybe I was unlucky. This was crossing the border by car.

[46_valentinor]

If you are crossing the border in a car with people carrying nexus card and people without, can the people without nexus get out of the car and walk through inside and rejoin the vehicle after crossing?
make sure you drop them off WAYYYY back at the duty free shop. i tried dropping my friends off at the middle of the park and was told by the agent that if i do that again im going to get my nexus taken away, unless if i drop them off at the duty free shop area.

[TypeRNammer]

Got dinged bringing back 4 Jerry cans of gas

Declared value - $92
Tax - $15

:okay:

First time getting taxed on it too. Knew it was going to happen eventually.

[MeowMeow]

Whoa I didn't know you could get dinged for gas.
Every time I go to point Roberts they ask me what I did I tell them I got gas
Never asked me how much, just let me through.

I got searched a lot but never got taxed in the past.

[MG1]

Nexus lane driver, plus all passengers must have have card.

What I was planning on doing, once I get the card, is to drive across and make passengers walk across. Apparently if you are caught doing this, your card will be revoked and you will be in big time trouble.

[MG1]

I just wish people would be a little more discreet when getting gas across the border. Taking a can or two I can understand, but this one couple I saw yesterday at the Burlington Costco had 8 fricken gas cans. WTF? You gonna bring the heat down on us, buddy!

For now it's a good thing that most of us can bring a can or two across, but damn......... what if you get rear ended pretty hard?

[ShadowBun]

^ saw a dude that had a 10 gallon can and 4 of them last weekend
got rejected by costco
insane.

[Kaolinite]

Whoa I didn't know you could get dinged for gas.
Every time I go to point Roberts they ask me what I did I tell them I got gas
Never asked me how much, just let me through.

I got searched a lot but never got taxed in the past.

you dont need to report the gas you filled your car with, just the gas you are bringing over in a jerry can

[vitaminG]

washington state has a jerry can law, 25L i think max. my dad got denied at costco for one of his 3 jerry cans.

i regularly cross with 12-18 beers and very rarely have to pay. thinking of getting nexus but worried they might be stricter with that kind of thing

[MG1]

Guys, if any of you are bored of this "No Fun" city and have a day or two to kill, may I suggest heading down to Beaverton, Oregon this coming Saturday.

Reasons:

Tax free shopping in Oregon, of course.
Main reason: Uwajimaya's Polynesian/Hawaiian week starts this coming Saturday. I happened to be there last year and had so much fun. Hula dancers competition and Polynesian food. Damn good stuff. Anyway, Uwajimaya itself is a treat. If any of you guys are into Japanese anime, the Kinokuniya bookstore is a treat. There's one in Seattle too in the Uwajimaya Downtown Seattle location.

BTW, when I was in Seattle yesterday, I went into a Daiso which is located across the street from the Uwajimaya Downtown location. It's not 2 bucks an item like it is here, but 1.50. They had a few items they don't have in the Richmond store. Apparently, there are quite a few locations in Washington.

BOOKS KINOKUNIYA Home Page(Store Information) (http://www.kinokuniya.com/us/index.php/fho003)
Uwajimaya (http://www.uwajimaya.com/)

[MG1]

washington state has a jerry can law, 25L i think max. my dad got denied at costco for one of his 3 jerry cans.

i regularly cross with 12-18 beers and very rarely have to pay. thinking of getting nexus but worried they might be stricter with that kind of thing

Yup 6 gallons, which is 22.7 litres. I have two of those ghey Sceptor tanks with the single opening and they are OK (20 litres), but the 5 Wedco's I have are all 25 litres.

The USA Gas (Tesoro's) station at Sumas is self serve and the attendant rarely leaves her seat. I bring a Wedco with me everytime I cross into Sumas.


BTW, just to let you guys know, there is a difference between US Imperial Gallons and Imperial (British) gallons, the ones we are/were used to.

[JesseBlue]

i applied for a nexus like 2 months ago and got the confirmation just last week for an interview...earliest available interview slot for downtown and airport is dec 12...so i opted for the blaine one for october...

i'm go beaverton once a year at least...love that place...feels "homey"...

[PeanutButter]

Just a FYI. Taxes and duties are not the same thing.
The CBSA rarely charges duties on any item. If you get called into the offices to pay, you are generally being charged tax.

Therefore, even if the item is duty free, it is still subject to taxes. A lot of people think duty and taxes are the same thing. They are not.

Tax in Vancouver is 12%. So all items coming into Canada may be charged 12% tax. Duty is a totally independent and different tax, which in my experiences have never been charged.

[MG1]

US made items, albeit rare, are duty free, thanks to Free Trade Agreement.

For higher ticketed items, I wonder if you can claim back taxes paid. Wouldn't be worth it unless it was pretty expensive item.

[MG1]

i'm go beaverton once a year at least...love that place...feels "homey"...

Apparently lots of island people live there. So laid back. I don't even recall how I ended up in Beaverton, but glad I did.

[racerman88]

Any recommendations for US sim cards?

Or should I just prepare for the roaming charges :fuckthatshit:

Have you looked into ROAM? I saw the ad on this site and they have reasonable rates.

[wingies]

Got dinged bringing back 4 Jerry cans of gas

Declared value - $92
Tax - $15

:okay:

First time getting taxed on it too. Knew it was going to happen eventually.

Damn, was this at point roberts? And they charged you 12%?

[nah]

make sure you drop them off WAYYYY back at the duty free shop. i tried dropping my friends off at the middle of the park and was told by the agent that if i do that again im going to get my nexus taken away, unless if i drop them off at the duty free shop area.

Was this at the US or Canadian side?

[XplicitLuder]

maybe you got flagged

i never thought of it that way...it's possible. I wouldn't understand why though, i use nexus all the time and always declare my shit. =/ wonder if i can call in and ask about it

I'll remember to never cross or associate myself with you when crossing :lawl:

good, dont like your kind anyways :troll:

Was this at the US or Canadian side?

either way , people arent supposed to be doing that. As MG1 said, i was told if i get caught doing that, they take your card away.

[ruthless]

you're lucky they didn't tax you on the whole $1200. I remember I went over my limit and they said once you're over you forfeit your allowance and pay the full amount or maybe I was unlucky. This was crossing the border by car.

That is for the 24 hours or more but less than 48 hour exemption.

If you exceed to $200.00 allowance you get taxed on the entire amount...

[TypeRNammer]

Damn, was this at point roberts? And they charged you 12%?

This was at the peace arch actually.

Total tax was 15%:okay:

[Acura604]

so what about us 'non nexus mofos' who have to deal with the regular lineups. I go down during the late evening hours or super early morning hours to beat the rush so I can fill up the tank... but sometimes you screw yourself and pick the wrong lineup while the other line(s) move a lot quicker. there's really no way to predict which lineup will move fastest when approaching the gates.

[BBMme]

make sure you car is empty! I got my stuff seized and I got red flagged=( My fault for leaving all my belonging ie chanel wallet, lv wallets, blackberry etc in my car......my friend told me to put the stuff in her place that day too...... but I said it was fine, she wasn't happy haha. I learned a very expensive lesson.

[MG1]

so what about us 'non nexus mofos' who have to deal with the regular lineups. I go down during the late evening hours or super early morning hours to beat the rush so I can fill up the tank... but sometimes you screw yourself and pick the wrong lineup while the other line(s) move a lot quicker. there's really no way to predict which lineup will move fastest when approaching the gates.

I look out for campers, vans, and trucks. Avoid them as much as possible. At Peace Arch, and correct me if I'm wrong, the right lane is faster. At least if was yesterday. The right lane splits up into 4 or 5 lanes, while the left one splits up into 2, maybe 3. There's this heavy set, middle aged, caucasian dude who one should avoid if in a hurry. He's a talker. Won't stop talking. Real friendly guy, for sure, but man, when you're in a hurry.......... he has the slowest line always. The blonde at the Sumas crossing, now when I come across her, I just put the car into park, lean on the door and have a long conversation. She has the nicest hazel eyes. I even asked once how she got the job and how tough it was to pass firearms training, LOL. The drivers behind me were getting pretty upset.

make sure you car is empty! I got my stuff seized and I got red flagged=( My fault for leaving all my belonging ie chanel wallet, lv wallets, blackberry etc in my car......my friend told me to put the stuff in her place that day too...... but I said it was fine, she wasn't happy haha. I learned a very expensive lesson.

Yup, I leave as much stuff at home as I can. I only take booster cables and first aid kit. Coolers are OK. Oh yeah, bring lots of reusable bags. Businesses in Washington get fined if they use plastic bags. They sell paper bags for anywhere from 5 to 25 cents each to their customers.

[MG1]

Another neat place to go in Bellingham is Trader Joes. One had to go all the way into Seattle to shop at Trader Joes, but now that there's one in Bellingham, it's actually possible to bring back their frozen goodies still in a frozen state (their freezer bags are awesome, btw).

http://www.traderjoes.com/

[604778]

I'm crossing the border this coming weekend. Looking to use Roam Mobility when I go down there, has anyone used it on their iPhone ?

[Ikkaku]

:lol the CBSA agent kept telling us not to drop off non-nexus members, after our interview.

[sonick]

I'm crossing the border this coming weekend. Looking to use Roam Mobility when I go down there, has anyone used it on their iPhone ?

I've used it on my trip down to Oregon a few weeks back, not on my iPhone though. Worked well for the most part.

[CRS]

i applied for a nexus like 2 months ago and got the confirmation just last week for an interview...earliest available interview slot for downtown and airport is dec 12...so i opted for the blaine one for october...

i'm go beaverton once a year at least...love that place...feels "homey"...

Just got my conditional approval today.

:fuckyea:

Going to be constantly checking the goes website to find a better time.

[heleu]

When I used to go down often, I used a T-Mobile SIM. I haven't looked at ROAM, but T-Mobile is $2/day (unlimited voice, 2G data), or $3/day (unlimited voice, 4G (non LTE) data).

[sonick]

Good discussion re: Roam vs T-Mobile Roam Mobility?s latest SIM Swap promotion nets you a better deal for US roaming | MobileSyrup.com (http://mobilesyrup.com/2013/07/26/roam-mobilitys-latest-sim-swap-promotion-nets-you-a-better-deal-for-us-roaming/)

T-Mobile Pros: $1 cheaper per day, unlimited data
T-Mobile Cons: 60 day SIM expiry (if unused for more than 60 days SIM is useless)

Roam Pros: 365-day SIM expiry, free text/calling back to Canada
Roam Cons: $1 more expensive per day, only 100MB data per day

Personally the pros for Roam were better for myself (don't travel into US frequently, keep in contact with family/gf while travelling) vs T-Mobile.

[syee]

If I'm not mistaken, Roam is just a TMobile MVNO so you're on the same network.
With an iPhone, you'll most likely get Edge (2G) speeds for data unless you happened to be in their refarmed 1900mhz areas.

[Hehe]

I remember when I was in BC, there is this place I ALWAYS go for breakfast when I head down: Little Cheerful in Bellingham. Until today, that's among things I truly miss of west coast.

As for non-nexus folks, if the layout didn't changed much, always stick to the lines to your left. The reason is that the highway is narrow before getting to the booth. And the left lanes usually have access to more lanes once near there, thus, line moves faster. But with the frequent construction, I'm not so sure now.

[Tim Budong]

used roam many times
never looked back

Nexus 4 ftmfw. iPhones work well for the most part along the i5 in WA

[SoulCrusher]

Monitoring the border wait site can help save some time for non-Ndxus travellers.

Border Wait Times (http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html)

There are also several free apps for border wait times
Posted via RS Mobile

[Kaolinite]

That is for the 24 hours or more but less than 48 hour exemption.

If you exceed to $200.00 allowance you get taxed on the entire amount...

Isin't the limit $0? the guards probably dont care if its a small amount but when I got my nexus card they were telling everyone if you are there for just the day you are allowed to bring $0 back.

[SoulCrusher]

That's true. There are no exemptions for same day trips. If you stay 24 he's you are entitled to $200 within your exemption. If you exceed $200 you lose it and everything you have is subject to taxes. This does not apply to the 48 hr $800 exemption.
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

Monitoring the border wait site can help save some time for non-Ndxus travellers.

Border Wait Times (http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html)

There are also several free apps for border wait times
Posted via RS Mobile

Also

Borderlineups.com (http://borderlineups.com/)

[MG1]

Well, I just got back from a trip to Blaine which then turned out to be a trip to Bellingham, LOL. I got an e-mail from 24/7 shipping that a package had come in. They hold parcels for up to 7 days. I cannot go for a few days, so today was the only day I could go. Lineups were pretty brutal all day today. It went down to 5/10 minutes heading south at around 7:30 pm. I didn't pay too much attention about getting back. The lineups were an hour and a half heading back into Canada at 8:00 pm. WTF? I hate line ups, so I decided to head down to Ferndale, Wa. Always wanted to go to a Sonic drive in, but never had a chance to. Well, it was a pretty good experience. Pretty good food for cheap. Half price mikshakes after 8 pm and a good dollar menu to boot. It's an old school drive in type of place. I even saw a chick on roller skates serving customers. You drive up to these stalls just like the old A&W drive ins used to be - press button on board and order your stuff.

After wife and I finished eating, we listened to AM 730 to find out the line ups were still over an hour. Fricken hell.......... I punch in casinos into the GPS and Silver Reef comes up. Only 7km away. Not bad, so I go there. It's not a bad casino at all. The first time I went there, the place looked pretty crappy, but this time it was a lot nicer (maybe because it was night time, hee hee). It just happened to be seniors day, LOL. Bonus points for slot play. I hung out till 10:30ish and checked Am 730 again. Still over an hour line up.

Ended up at Wal Mart in Bellingham since it's open 24 hours. At 12:30 border lineups were down to 5 minutes. By the time I got to Peace Arch, five lanes were open with one car in three of the lanes.

Note to self..........going down on a Monday = no damn good. Rainy Days and Mondays Always Get Me Down (Karen Carpenter, god bless her soul).

Anyway, yeah, if you've never been to a Sonic, there's one in Ferndale. Take Main Street Exit off I5 and turn right, you'll see it on the left hand side.

Sonic, America's Drive-In | This Is How You Sonic (http://www.sonicdrivein.com/)

[SiRV]

T-Mobile, prepaid card with data. just as for the $3 a day plan. data+voice for $3 a day only when u use it.
Unlt nationwide voice, unlt nationwide texting, unlt web (first 200MB / day at 4G speed then 3G after)

Does this work only when going to seattle? Or can we get something like this for a Vegas trip too?

[syee]

Does this work only when going to seattle? Or can we get something like this for a Vegas trip too?

T Mobile is nationwide (in the US) so it'll work anywhere in the US. You can buy the card at a TMobile booth at any mall (there's on in Bellis Fair near the Target).

[punkwax]

I have Nexus but my wife doesn't so when we go together we pretty much always use truck crossing. murd0c is right, grabbing a bottle of water at duty free can shave a lot of time - we went to the Jays game in Seattle last Monday (long wknd) and the border lineup was 80 mins. We were through in 40 including the 5 mins it took at the store.

Right lane is also the best lane is it splits into multiple lanes.

[Lomac]

Yup, try and figure out what feeder lanes end up splitting into multiple lanes. At the Truck Crossing, I believe it's the right lane heading south. North bound, both lanes split, I think. It's been a while since I've taken it. Usually I'd take the Aldergrove crossing. That one is always pretty dead. :fullofwin:

[i-VTEC]

Just a question for those who have nexus card. Let say if I do have one and I am taking one passenger who doesn't have nexus pass, I would need to cross at the normal line. But can I drop him off, so he crosses the border by walking in, while I go through with nexus line then pick him right up after we both have crossed?

The reason I asked because I saw someone did this at PR border, but I am not sure about peacearch.

[Lomac]

No.

You also realize this was also answered a few posts up, right? :p

[pingu81]

Just a question for those who have nexus card. Let say if I do have one and I am taking one passenger who doesn't have nexus pass, I would need to cross at the normal line. But can I drop him off, so he crosses the border by walking in, while I go through with nexus line then pick him right up after we both have crossed?

Don't do that. Both take the regular lane and stay in the vehicle.

[sonick]

How is the traffic in and out of the Point Roberts at the borders and on the highway back to Vancouver weekday early morning?

I need to pick up a package tomorrow morning before work when the shell opens at 6:30am, not sure if I should let work know I will be late.

Does this work only when going to seattle? Or can we get something like this for a Vegas trip too?

Anywhere in the US, so good for Vegas too.

[Lomac]

How is the traffic in and out of the Point Roberts at the borders and on the highway back to Vancouver weekday early morning?

I need to pick up a package tomorrow morning before work when the shell opens at 6:30am, not sure if I should let work know I will be late.

Good luck with that. :lol

Heading towards the tunnel from Richmond, you'll be hitting one lane through. Coming back wont be as bad as the counterflow lane will be working in your favour but it still backs up coming out of Tswassen.

[sonick]

Damnit, ok, guess I'll wake up even earlier than planned and give work a heads up. Thanks.

[heleu]

The other thing about Point Roberts is the nexus lane doesn't open south bound until 11am on weekdays. It sucks because one time I showed up early in the morning wanting to pick up a package, but the regular line was ~45 min to 1 hour.

[SoulCrusher]

^ Point Roberts Nexus headed southbound is 9am to 7pm.

CBSA - Boundary Bay Nexus headed North bound is 7am to 7pm but due to summer they close at 10 pm.
Posted via RS Mobile

[JordanLee]

Dont attempt the Nexus Drop Off shoop de woop. As everyone one here has said, they give you shit for it and threaten to confiscate it but it's actually happened to someone I know.

[CRS]

Trying to schedule an earlier appointment is hard. They go so fast.

*edit
Went from Dec to Nov. 1 month at a time.

:fullofwin:

*edit 2
Went from Nov to Sept. Nice!

I feel like I'm 17 again and waiting for ICBC openings. :lol

[heleu]

^ Point Roberts Nexus headed southbound is 9am to 7pm.

CBSA - Boundary Bay Nexus headed North bound is 7am to 7pm but due to summer they close at 10 pm.
Posted via RS Mobile

You're right, I stand corrected:
Cross often? Make it simple, use NEXUS (http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/nexus/land-terre-eng.html)

[anti_rice]

I'm crossing the border this coming weekend. Looking to use Roam Mobility when I go down there, has anyone used it on their iPhone ?

I've used Roam Mobility several times. On android and iOS. On an iPhone depending on where you are, you should get 3G service in major cities in the US. With Android phones you should get 4G service.
100mb/day is actually alot of data unless you plan on going on youtube all day. I used it for whatsapp, maps and browsing and haven't come close to reaching 100mb in a day. If you get multiple days then you get more MB which is rolled over.

Roam uses T-Mobile's network so essentially it will be the same as if you were to get a T-Mobile chip. As someone mentioned T-Mobile chips expire in 30days where as Roam is a year.
Roam charges in Canadian dollar because it's a Canadian company (for those nickle and diming exchange rates). Roam offers free text and calling back to Canada which is a bonus for us Canadians.

One thing I like about Roam which i'm not sure if T-mobile offers is you can choose when you want your plan to start. For example if your going to land in Vegas at 3pm you can tell Roam to start at 3pm so it goes from 3pm - 3pm the next day. So you don't waste half a day of service.

[nah]

Not a bad site and looks pretty accurate.

Border crossing wait times for Blaine (Peace Arch) - Graphs (http://traffic.calit2.net/border/border-wait-times.php?type=passenger&sub=standard&port=300402)

[604778]

I'm going to Long Beach, California. I looked up the coverage map, seems like they have a lot of coverage in California. Probably going to use my iPhone since I got it unlocked.

[finbar]

If your postal code is V4Y 2J6, your zip code would be 42600. Kind of cool. I wonder if this works at other gas stations down south.



Worked today at the West Seattle Safeway gas station. :thumbs:

[syee]

I'm going to Long Beach, California. I looked up the coverage map, seems like they have a lot of coverage in California. Probably going to use my iPhone since I got it unlocked.

Just be sure you're looking at the right coverage map. TMobile's 3G/4G network is largely on AWS which your iPhone won't support. You'll be getting EDGE (2G) speeds if you're in those areas with your iPhone.

Use this map to see if you'll get 3G speeds on their refarmed 1900Mhz band (which the iPhone does support)

Sightings of T-Mobile 3G/4G/HSPA+ coverage on 1900MHz (PCS/UMTS band II) (http://www.airportal.de/)

Mind you, this map is "crowdsourced" so take the info with a grain of salt. No guarantees you'll get 3G speeds in areas that the map says it does.

Worked today at the West Seattle Safeway gas station. :thumbs:

I believe 99999 works as a zip code too. I've used it on the MTA in NYC when it asked me for a ZIP code for my Canadian card.

[krazynuck]

What does everyone think the wait times will be on Sept 2 (The Monday of the long weekend) going into the states. I have a 11am flight and normally only use my nexus, but this time I will have to use my passport. I am thinking to be at the boarder by 8am...in everyone's opinion is that enough time??

[syee]

What does everyone think the wait times will be on Sept 2 (The Monday of the long weekend) going into the states. I have a 11am flight and normally only use my nexus, but this time I will have to use my passport. I am thinking to be at the boarder by 8am...in everyone's opinion is that enough time??

Don't forget it's a long weekend in the US as well. Not only will you have Canadians coming back up, you'll likely have Americans going back down as well. Being at the border 3 hours before your flight in my opinion isn't enough time. I'd budget at least 2 hours just in line at the border as a worst case scenario. If you're going to Bellingham, that's another 30 minutes from the border and if you're taking Allegiant, be prepared to spend an hour in line just to check in or check bags.

If you're going to Seattle, it's another 2 hours from the border. That's not including the time to park your car, then possibly shuttle it to the terminal. Give yourself more time. Worst case you get there early and just go grab some breakfast at wherever your destination is.

[jeedee]

Anyone ever bring their supplements to the US while crossing?

Planning to bring my preworkout but worried border patrol might seize it as it comes in powdered form :badpokerface:

If its sealed would it be fine? lol

[Kaolinite]

should be fine? I have brought over tons of supplements and have had no problems. I leave them in a open box in the front passenger seat so he/she can see them.

[Kaolinite]

What does everyone think the wait times will be on Sept 2 (The Monday of the long weekend) going into the states. I have a 11am flight and normally only use my nexus, but this time I will have to use my passport. I am thinking to be at the boarder by 8am...in everyone's opinion is that enough time??

I went the sunday on BC day long weekend at 7:30am and both pacific-x and peace arch were 1 hour waits.. but coming home the same day at around 6pm we waited probably only 5 minutes.

[tru_blue]

just a question you guys: my dad got a ticket in 1996 for speeding coming back to Vancouver from Seattle and didn't end up paying for it. If we go down to the U.S again soon, would we have any trouble crossing the border ?

The ticket was issued way back in 1996 and we might go down soon. What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance !

[willystyle]

just a question you guys: my dad got a ticket in 1996 for speeding coming back to Vancouver from Seattle and didn't end up paying for it. If we go down to the U.S again soon, would we have any trouble crossing the border ?

The ticket was issued way back in 1996 and we might go down soon. What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance !
Your dad will not be allowed entry into Washington State until he pays it off.

[tru_blue]

Your dad will not be allowed entry into Washington State until he pays it off.

would he still be denied entry if i was the one driving?

Its been ages already, how much do you think it will be if he pays the ticket off considering interest and all?

[godwin]

Well it depends if the US gov has digitized infractions so far back yet. There might be a warrant out for him too. He might get by if the border guard doesn't scan all the ids, but he does, be prepared your whole family to bend over. Your dad will be taken to lockup NOT denied entry (hint: don't try to cross on long weekends or after business hours when the court is closed, unless you want to stay at the "big house" for a few days). You guys will be stranded (the car get towed and impounded in Bellingham for state or which ever city the ticket was issued at your dime, imagine the taxi charge if it is Bellvue eg) and all that fun stuff. I think the worst bit is all of the travel party will be flagged.

Make sure the car you are crossing in is not in his name (or the name that was used to register the car back in 96).. or else the car will be marked by the cameras before the booth even if you are driving.

It depends on who caught him, ie highway patrol or state or police from the city / town in between. He can call the nearest court house and figure out and just pay it in full; before his entry. Some county will need you to go down to plead, some don't.. each county has their own rules.

These are one of those cases just to call those lawyers who advertise at late night American TV, let them look it up and settle on the figure, pay the fine and get it over with.

just a question you guys: my dad got a ticket in 1996 for speeding coming back to Vancouver from Seattle and didn't end up paying for it. If we go down to the U.S again soon, would we have any trouble crossing the border ?

The ticket was issued way back in 1996 and we might go down soon. What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance !

[jeedee]

would he still be denied entry if i was the one driving?

Its been ages already, how much do you think it will be if he pays the ticket off considering interest and all?

:suspicious:

How did HE get the ticket for speeding if YOU were the one driving.........

[tru_blue]

:suspicious:

How did HE get the ticket for speeding if YOU were the one driving.........

oops i meant if I was going to be driving next time we go to the U.S

in 1996, i was still a little kid

[jeedee]

Yeah just thought it was a bit odd :lol

Even if you were driving, everyone in your car would be denied entry/he would be locked up because of your dad not paying the ticket afaik.

To avoid all the trouble, just pay the ticket!

[tru_blue]

Well it depends if the US gov has digitized infraction so far back yet. There might be a warrant out for him too. He might get by if the border guard didn't scan all the ids, but he does, be prepared your whole family to bend over. He will be taken to lockup NOT denied entry (hint: don't try to cross on long weekends or after business hours when the court is closed, unless you want to stay at the "big house" for a few days). You guys will be stranded (the car get towed and impounded in Bellingham? or some bigger city at your dime) and all that fun stuff. I think the worst bit is all of the travel party will be flagged.

Make sure the cars you are crossing is not in his name (or the name that was used to register the car back in 96).. or else the car will be marked by the cameras right away even if you are driving.

It depends on who caught him, ie highway patrol or state or police from the city / town in between. He can call the nearest court and figure out and just pay it; before his entry. Some county will need you to go down, some don't.. each county has their own rules.

These are one of those cases just to call those lawyers who advertise at late night American TV, pay the fine and get it over with.

U.S takes unpaid speeding tickets so seriously eh?

would my dad also be denied entry from the U.S if he traveled by plane or is it just for driving across only?

[tru_blue]

Well it depends if the US gov has digitized infractions so far back yet. There might be a warrant out for him too. He might get by if the border guard doesn't scan all the ids, but he does, be prepared your whole family to bend over. Your dad will be taken to lockup NOT denied entry (hint: don't try to cross on long weekends or after business hours when the court is closed, unless you want to stay at the "big house" for a few days). You guys will be stranded (the car get towed and impounded in Bellingham? or some bigger city at your dime) and all that fun stuff. I think the worst bit is all of the travel party will be flagged.

Make sure the car you are crossing in is not in his name (or the name that was used to register the car back in 96).. or else the car will be marked by the cameras right away even if you are driving.

It depends on who caught him, ie highway patrol or state or police from the city / town in between. He can call the nearest court house and figure out and just pay it in full; before his entry. Some county will need you to go down, some don't.. each county has their own rules.

These are one of those cases just to call those lawyers who advertise at late night American TV, let them look it up and settle on the figure, pay the fine and get it over with.
is there any U.S sites to check if there is still a pending ticket under your drivers license? (I want to see if the ticket is still in their system for my dad)

anyone know?

thanks in advance !

[jeedee]

U.S takes unpaid speeding tickets so seriously eh?

would my dad also be denied entry from the U.S if he traveled by plane or is it just for driving across only?

They take EVERYTHING seriously and can refuse entry to anyone with an offense, sometimes a little as a traffic conviction. It really depends on the CBSA/border patrol person you get.

He would also be denied entry into the US by plane AND driving for that ticket. Speeding is not the "crime" its really just the unpaid ticket from 17 years ago

Its best to just pay the ticket off dude lol

[godwin]

That's what lawyers are for. Unless your dad still have the ticket, you have to look up at all the counties between Seattle to Van.

is there any U.S sites to check if there is still a pending ticket under your drivers license? (I want to see if the ticket is still in their system for my dad)

anyone know?

thanks in advance !

[godwin]

Things would be simple if it is just denied entry... if there is a warrant out .. He gets to enjoy the full Lindsay Lohan treatment! pictures, finger printing, jail, judge etc.



He would also be denied entry into the US by plane AND driving for that ticket.

[godwin]

It is their country, their rules.

If there wasn't 9/11, you would had been able to enter via Montana / Idaho etc, since it is a state warrant. But now since everything is connected, there is no more leeway.

Once you cross into the border zone, you have left Canada. Basically you belong to US. Your dad will be taken into custody once his name shows up with a warrant. He doesn't have a choice to head back to Canada (even if you are at YVR)!! They can denied entry to your dad, only after they are done with him. Also remember US has a huge deficit, these things add up especially since there is no lobbyists etc.

I think trying to fly out at YVR can end up more of an hassle, since you don't know where CBP clear people they arrested at foreign checkpoints, could be middle of Kansas for all you know.

U.S takes unpaid speeding tickets so seriously eh?

would my dad also be denied entry from the U.S if he traveled by plane or is it just for driving across only?

[MG1]

just a question you guys: my dad got a ticket in 1996 for speeding coming back to Vancouver from Seattle and didn't end up paying for it. If we go down to the U.S again soon, would we have any trouble crossing the border ?

The ticket was issued way back in 1996 and we might go down soon. What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance !

Exact same thing happened to me. I got a speeding ticket going through Everett, Wa. At the time I thought, WTF, I don't need to go to the US anymore. I never paid the ticket. Well, I got a warrant for my arrest through the mail. Bastards wanted my ass. I just refused to pay. I'm not sure how long ago this was. I'm thinking mid 90's, since I used to traveled down south quite often before that due to competing in IASCA events. I guess I can look it up, since I never throw anything out.

Long story short, I crossed into the US a few of years back to see if the warrant was still in effect. I was on vacation and had some time (in case I got arrested and raped in jail, LOL) on my hands. Border guard was like, "OK, you go into the building right now!" They checked my name for any outstanding tickets, warrants, whathaveyou. I was clean, so they sent me on my way. When I crossed back into Canada and told the CBSA agent about why I went across, she just shook her head and said you were lucky they didn't detain you and throw you in jail. BTW, this was just before passports were mandatory.

I will dig up my ticket and see how far back it was. I was told the warrant for speeding tickets had limits. In any case, times are different now. I wouldn't take a chance. Call whoever you have to to find out if pops is in the clear.

[finbar]

Is there a statute of limitations on that?

[tru_blue]

so i guess going to the Seattle premium outlets won't be a good idea for the family then eh :lawl:

good thing I read the posts of this thread early enough

[tru_blue]

It is their country, their rules.

If there wasn't 9/11, you would had been able to enter via Montana / Idaho etc, since it is a state warrant. But now since everything is connected, there is no more leeway.

Once you cross into the border zone, you have left Canada. Basically you belong to US. Your dad will be taken into custody once his name shows up with a warrant. He doesn't have a choice to head back to Canada (even if you are at YVR)!! They can denied entry to your dad, only after they are done with him. Also remember US has a huge deficit, these things add up especially since there is no lobbyists etc.

I think trying to fly out at YVR can end up more of an hassle, since you don't know where CBP clear people they arrested at foreign checkpoints, could be middle of Kansas for all you know.
thanks for the reply !

To add: My dad and I went to Vegas by plane back in 2003 and we didnt get hassled by the border security at all, so I am confused if it was the fact that we traveled by plane......

anyone else care to chime in?

even if he wanted to pay off the ticket now, how can he do it privately without going to the lawyers. He lost the ticket since it was from 1996

[jeedee]

Like I said....it really depends on the person you get while crossing the border. Some are more lenient than others.

You could take the risk of going to the Outlets while your dad has an unpaid ticket/possibly a warrant out for him.

Let us know how it goes :troll:

[yoall]

I had a speeding ticket back in 2002. ddint pay it either. Don't listen to your friends. LOL

2005 came along. My company wanted me to head south for a meeting. I called all the counties and police station in that area that got the ticket. They said my name is not in the system or file. You are good and ok to come to WA.

I thought it was a Tarp. LOL. So I just drove down there any ways. Nothing happened.

I have my nexus and i fly to USA and drive over to PR all the time now.

That's just me. Good luck to your dad.

[JesseBlue]

then boom ...when you don't expect it, they take your ass to jail....how would that feel?

[XplicitLuder]

I had a speeding ticket back in 2002. ddint pay it either. Don't listen to your friends. LOL

2005 came along. My company wanted me to head south for a meeting. I called all the counties and police station in that area that got the ticket. They said my name is not in the system or file. You are good and ok to come to WA.

I thought it was a Tarp. LOL. So I just drove down there any ways. Nothing happened.

I have my nexus and i fly to USA and drive over to PR all the time now.

That's just me. Good luck to your dad.

this. my uncle got one last year and he crosses at least 1-2 a month but usually his wife drives. Nothing has ever happened. Actually he's been driving down there lately..wonder if he just paid it off

[Eff-1]

Does anyone know the story with using NEXUS at the airport and paying taxes?

If you fly back and have a $1000 exemption and you talk to the guard and say you spent $1500, then they will use discretion whether to charge you anything. What about the kiosks? If you enter $1500 into the computer, does it automatically flag you for payment?

Of course you could risk entering $1000 only but if flagged for inspection, you risk losing the NEXUS card if discovered you are $500 over your exemption.

What do most people do in this situation?

[MG1]

then boom ...when you don't expect it, they take your ass to jail....how would that feel?

as long as the cellmate is not murd0c's avatar............

[MG1]

I'm surprised nobody has brought up the subject of fake US bills.

I was at the Safeway on Broadway and Commercial buying lottery tickets. Dude comes up and asks if Safeway takes US money. "If it's par, I'll take it," I said. I was thinking 10's or 20's, but this guy whips out a 100 dollar bill. At first I was like, :suspicious:, but upon closer inspection I knew it was good tender. Just in case, I took a snapshot of his licence. Dude looked decent and what the heck, I saved a few bucks. Actually, I have done research on fake US bills, so I was pretty confident.

First tell tale sign is the hidden strip of letters and numbers on the bill that can only be seen when the bill is held up to the light. Under normal light, the strip is not visible. This feature is on all bills, 100 dollar bill reads "US 100". The strip also has a colour when held under UV light.

The feel of the paper is another tell tale sign. Helps to have another US bill on hand for comparison. Then there's the watermark on the right side of the bill. The hundred has Ben Franklin on the front. The watermark should also be Ben Franklin. If it's anyone else, the fake bill was made from whatever low denomination bill that has been bleached and reprinted to be a higher denomination. 100 dolar bill with Abe Lincoln as watermark = :denied:

There's also a pen out there that you can buy that will react, or more like not react with the type of paper US bills are printed on. There's a shitload of info on the Internet. Pretty interesting stuff.

BTW, if you do have a legit 100 dollar bill and want to break it, because a lot of smaller businesses don't accept them due to influx of so many fakes, you can always go to a casino and put the bill into a bill breaker machine. I did this the other day at Silver Reef. Worked like a charm.

[tru_blue]

so far mixed reviews regarding unpaid speeding tickets and going back into the U.S

anyone else with more experience and knowledge care to chime in?

[MG1]

Found it! My speeding ticket was issued June of 1992. I was supposed to go to court in Issaquah, Wa. if I wanted to dispute the ticket. Never bothered showing up and received warrant for arrest a month and a half later.

[CRS]

so far mixed reviews regarding unpaid speeding tickets and going back into the U.S

anyone else with more experience and knowledge care to chime in?

No one can really answer such a case specific question. It would be ideal if you had the ticket and could call up the county and find out if there is a warrant issued for your dad's arrest. If you don't have the ticket anymore, good luck find the county and enjoy spending the time calling each and every single county until you reach seattle.

[MG1]

I just re-read tru_blue's post again. There's no mention of a warrant for arrest. It should be all good. Dude, tell your dad to go for it..... just tell him to go alone, first. It's not like he shot the sherrif, but did not shoot no deputay...... it was just a speeding ticket.

[MG1]

For those wondering about how much you can bring back, here's a link to CBSA website.

In there is something most people neglect. You can send gifts to whoever in Canada without duty. Cannot exceed 60 bucks for each gift, but that's 60 bucks less you have to account for when crossing back.


Residents Returning to Canada (http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/ifcrc-rpcrc-eng.html)

[MeowMeow]

I think the border guards got little bit more Anal after this whole media incident
The lady today was asking me shit tons of questions.
At the end of the day she let me go though after declaring $250 mainly groceries for two ppl, & bottle of wine

Bellis fair is having lot of good sale events going on right now btw!

[SoulCrusher]

^ that's not right.

Its specific for non-residents. If they have items that they will be gifting to someone in Canada, if the value exceeds $60 it is duty and taxable. For example, if a US citizen is bring across a $1000 camera with the intention of giving it to some one in Canada they will be paying applicable taxes. Canadian residents have 3 different exemption entitlements; 24 hour- $200; 48 hour- $800; 7 days - $800 which can include goods to follow at a later date. Don't confuse resident and non-res exemptions.
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

Huh? Did I miss something?

Travelling with gifts

While you are outside Canada, you can send gifts free of duty and taxes to friends in Canada under certain conditions. To qualify, each gift must not be worth more than CAN$60 and cannot be a tobacco product, an alcoholic beverage or advertising matter. If the gift is worth more than CAN$60, the recipient will have to pay regular duty and taxes on the excess amount. It is always a good idea to include a greeting card to avoid any misunderstanding.

While gifts you send from outside Canada do not count as part of your personal exemption, gifts you bring back in your personal baggage do.

If you are travelling with gifts, do not wrap them prior to crossing the border. If you do, we remind you that a border services officer may need to unwrap the gift to conduct an examination of the goods you are bringing into Canada.



Residents Returning to Canada

This section applies to Canadian citizens, to permanent residents, and to foreign nationals returning to Canada who are already working or studying here, or who have a temporary resident permit.

[LP700-4]

Any predictions on lineups tomorrow morning? Have a bit of a tight schedule driving to Portland and wondering if we should leave a bit earlier to accommodate the weekend line

[CorneringArtist]

Friday morning is almost guaranteed 45 minute to an hour wait regardless if its a holiday or not. Leave a bit early just in case.
Posted via RS Mobile

[syee]

Friday morning is almost guaranteed 45 minute to an hour wait regardless if its a holiday or not. Leave a bit early just in case.
Posted via RS Mobile

This. I drive past the sign on Hwy 91 just past 72nd Ave every day and every Friday it's reporting 45 minutes wait at both Peace Arch and the truck crossing at around 9am. Mon-Thu, it's usually around 30 minutes. Go in the late afternoon/evening and it's guaranteed minimum an hour.

[MG1]

Get to border before 7 am. Spend time traveling or chill at a restaurant rather than spend it in a line up. Nothing more unproductive than being stuck in a line up.

[Vansterdam]

are Americans allowed to bring alcohol as gifts or with them to their friends in Canada? Do they get duty or taxed? Is there a limit on how much alcohol they can bring?
Posted via RS Mobile

[CorneringArtist]

^ Alcohol is limited to one choice of 2 bottles of wine, a 40, or a 24 pack of beer.

[MG1]

Best way to get cheap tobacco and alcohol (not too sure on this one) is to have a friend who is Status Indian ( First Nations, aboriginal, indigenous, whatever is cool to say these days) and lives on a reserve. When I was a heavy smoker, I got cases of smokes from a friend who lived on a Reserve.

Alcohol = white man's gift to aboriginals. Tobacco = aboriginal's gift to white man. It all evens out, right?

We should have been a bit nicer to Native Russ...............


EDIT: Always wAndered what kind of "firewater" the Europeans first gave the aboriginals....... most likely rum, but hoping it was good stuff, like the best wines from France. The aboriginals in Cuba gave Columbus and his crew Cuban cigars..... Cuban Cigars :fullofwin:

[MG1]

are Americans allowed to bring alcohol as gifts or with them to their friends in Canada? Do they get duty or taxed? Is there a limit on how much alcohol they can bring?
Posted via RS Mobile

https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/list/kw/duty%20free/sno/1/search/1/session/L3NpZC9ZTGxyNld4bA%3D%3D#s=eyJzZiI6eyIxMTAyMzUiOns iZmlsdGVycyI6eyJub190cnVuY2F0ZSI6MCwicGFnZSI6MSwic 2VhcmNoVHlwZSI6eyJmaWx0ZXJzIjp7ImRhdGEiOjV9fSwia2V 5d29yZCI6eyJmaWx0ZXJzIjp7ImRhdGEiOiJkdXRpZXMifX0sI nAiOnsiZmlsdGVycyI6eyJkYXRhIjp7IjAiOm51bGx9fX0sImM iOnsiZmlsdGVycyI6eyJkYXRhIjp7IjAiOm51bGx9fX19fX0sI mMiOjV9


....and type in whatever in the search field.

[wingies]

thanks for the reply !

To add: My dad and I went to Vegas by plane back in 2003 and we didnt get hassled by the border security at all, so I am confused if it was the fact that we traveled by plane......

anyone else care to chime in?

even if he wanted to pay off the ticket now, how can he do it privately without going to the lawyers. He lost the ticket since it was from 1996

I had a speeding ticket back in 2002. ddint pay it either. Don't listen to your friends. LOL

2005 came along. My company wanted me to head south for a meeting. I called all the counties and police station in that area that got the ticket. They said my name is not in the system or file. You are good and ok to come to WA.

I thought it was a Tarp. LOL. So I just drove down there any ways. Nothing happened.

I have my nexus and i fly to USA and drive over to PR all the time now.

That's just me. Good luck to your dad.

Same situation, I got speeding ticket in 2010 and I wasnt even speeding. Never paid it and drive back and forth to Seattle and Portland a few times a year. I had absolutely no issues at the border whatever, I even got issued my nexus and use it regularly with no issues.

[finbar]

are Americans allowed to bring alcohol as gifts or with them to their friends in Canada? Do they get duty or taxed? Is there a limit on how much alcohol they can bring?
Posted via RS Mobile

Not according to the agent I dealt with a few years ago, it has to be for the traveller's personal consumption.

It got me an eyeroll wave through.

[Araaadi]

I got $2000 of car parts to pick up over the next couple weeks. Wish me luck lol.

What are the rules about getting services done in the states? Like installation of parts of car servicing?

[MG1]

If car parts are made in the US, no duties, just taxes. I'm not 100% sure on it, but IMHO, service or installation should not be taxed. You shouldn't be charged taxes on stuff done out of country. A Canadian did not do the work.

You will pay taxes on parts and most likely the duty as well if is is something made outside NA. BTW, Mexican parts are duty free, as well. NAFTA= North American Free Trade Agreement.

[MG1]

So, on Wednesday, I went to the Nooksack Northwood Casino (free slot play for seniors on Wed and Thurs, LOL). I crossed back into Canada via 264th/Guide Meridian (Aldergrove Crossing). Has anyone used East Boundary Road to beat the line up? I've seen some cars do it, but not many. It would be neat, because it's right at the Duty Free Store. Right turn and bam, you're in the lane that splits into two. Plus, I won't have to feel like a heal by going into the Duty Free. I ask because it looks like I can get to Casino using that route, too.

[ShadowBun]

Picking up half a year worth of supplements soon

Any tips? Is there a best day to do it at?

[wingies]

Best day? Friday Afternoon Saturday late morning, when its busy as fuck as they dont want to bother processing you.

I just go in with the mindset that I'm ready to pay taxes since you generally don't pay taxes on your online purchase anyway. If they let me go by, then lucky me that I get some extra money. If not, whatever its still cheaper then getting it locally I'm sure

[ruthless]

are Americans allowed to bring alcohol as gifts or with them to their friends in Canada? Do they get duty or taxed? Is there a limit on how much alcohol they can bring?
Posted via RS Mobile

^ Alcohol is limited to one choice of 2 bottles of wine, a 40, or a 24 pack of beer.

Not according to the agent I dealt with a few years ago, it has to be for the traveller's personal consumption.

It got me an eyeroll wave through.

Alcohol and Tobacco cannot be claimed as gifts by Americans or Canadians.

Americans can bring up to a certain amount of alcohol for personal consumption only
if they intend on staying in Canada for 48 hours or more.

They are entitled to 1.14ltrs of hard liquor or 1.5ltrs of wine or 24(12ounce) beers and 200 cigarettes/tobacco allowance.
Essentially the same exemptions as Canadians who have been outside the country for 48+hours
Per individual over 21. Also keep in mind exemptions cannot be combined, these are per traveller whether or not they meet the allotted quantities or not.
If they bring more than this then they will be charged on the overage and the taxes/duties/markups are really high

I got $2000 of car parts to pick up over the next couple weeks. Wish me luck lol.

What are the rules about getting services done in the states? Like installation of parts of car servicing?

If car parts are made in the US, no duties, just taxes. I'm not 100% sure on it, but IMHO, service or installation should not be taxed. You shouldn't be charged taxes on stuff done out of country. A Canadian did not do the work.

You will pay taxes on parts and most likely the duty as well if is is something made outside NA. BTW, Mexican parts are duty free, as well. NAFTA= North American Free Trade Agreement.

Any modifications/services done to a Canadian vehicle outside of Canada is subject to taxes(GST+PST) and possible duties.
For example an oil change done down south is subject to taxes.

Keep in mind you get taxed on top of the total amount it cost you to perform the service, including WA state tax, labour, environmental fees, warranties, everything except shipping & handling.

[heleu]

Has anyone parked at this place:
Bellingham Parking - Park & Fly from BLI! Airport parking, Bellingham WA (http://www.bellinghamparking.com/index.html)

when flying out of the Bellingham airport? They seem to be the cheapest lot, but their website is sketchy...

[tonyzoomzoom]

I've parked there for a week while on vacation earlier this year. No issues at all. They are just a couple of minutes from the airport.

[MG1]

I've parked there for a week while on vacation earlier this year. No issues at all. They are just a couple of minutes from the airport.

Cool, but do you drive an Acura..........

[nah]

Last Friday at 7 AM was a 45 minute wait...

[Speed2K]

Has anyone parked at this place:
Bellingham Parking - Park & Fly from BLI! Airport parking, Bellingham WA (http://www.bellinghamparking.com/index.html)

when flying out of the Bellingham airport? They seem to be the cheapest lot, but their website is sketchy...

how long are you gone for? It's only $1 cheaper than the cheapest airport lot.

[heleu]

I'm gone for a week. The cheapest airport lot is $2/day more expensive, but it's far enough away to require a shuttle.

But yeah, to save $14....probably not worth the hassle.

[MG1]

August 19, 2014.

Sumas border crossing at 9:42 am = 5 minutes heading south, gas $3.69/gal, 12 minutes to fill up car, one jerry can, check Powerball ticket (no win :okay:), 3 minute wait heading north.

Look across to check lineup going south -- 45 minutes long and growing........ talk about timing it right!

[mb_]

How long is the usual wait at night time (around 10-11)? Would like to fill up in Blaine when I'm up
Posted via RS Mobile

[kwy]

My sister crossed at Sumas a few days ago and went to Bellingham for shopping. On the way back, got pulled over for a search. They went through her car, made a mess, and went through her phone, including private messages. Apparently it's legal but it seems fucking ridiculous..

[MG1]

I've had my car searched. Nothing remotely as bad. Lady apologized and said it's a random thing, nothing personal, and that she had to do it. Basically opened the trunk, saw my one jerry can and said, "Don't bring gas in cans across." This was about a year ago. Stopped bringing cans across for about a month. Dumb, because everyone was bringing across two, three at a time.

For them to search the car like that, they must have suspected something. Something about your sister and her traveling companions must have set off some alarms.

What did she say? What did she bring back and who was she with? The info will help everyone here - what not to say/act/do.

I often see young travelers getting searched. About two weeks ago at Peace Arch, I saw this sedan with all its contents strewn across the ground. Camping gear, tent, backpacks, etc. I felt sorry for the couple. They must have said something....... either that or had items that had smell of weed/drugs.

When I go across, I take absolutely the bare minimum. Say only what i have to say and put on the charming/trusting smile I always have.

Sorry to hear your sister had to go through all that. I'm knocking on wood that it doesn't happen to me.

[Hondaracer]

I never bring anything with me except maybe a backpack with clothes if I'm staying over night

Scared when i drive my truck down though cause if they ever pull out my system it's never going back in the same :(
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

How long is the usual wait at night time (around 10-11)? Would like to fill up in Blaine when I'm up
Posted via RS Mobile

Going down to the US at that time is very light to minimal. Coming back is another story. That's when people come back with all their shopping and 10 cans of gas.

Keep listening to AM 730 Traffic Radio. It comes in pretty clear well into Bellingham, unless you have a crappy Alpine deck like I do, LOLOLOLOLOL.

[TypeRNammer]

Basically opened the trunk, saw my one jerry can and said, "Don't bring gas in cans across." This was about a year ago. Stopped bringing cans across for about a month. Dumb, because everyone was bringing across two, three at a time.


Last time I got dinged bringing back 4 cans.

I went a few days ago on a Saturday.

Filled up 3 jerry cans this time.

Declared groceries and gas, ready to declare total value.

Got waived through.

[Hondaracer]

I never bring anything with me except maybe a backpack with clothes if I'm staying over night

Scared when i drive my truck down though cause if they ever pull out my system it's never going back in the same :(
Posted via RS Mobile

[kwy]

I've had my car searched. Nothing remotely as bad. Lady apologized and said it's a random thing, nothing personal, and that she had to do it. Basically opened the trunk, saw my one jerry can and said, "Don't bring gas in cans across." This was about a year ago. Stopped bringing cans across for about a month. Dumb, because everyone was bringing across two, three at a time.

For them to search the car like that, they must have suspected something. Something about your sister and her traveling companions must have set off some alarms.

What did she say? What did she bring back and who was she with? The info will help everyone here - what not to say/act/do.

I often see young travelers getting searched. About two weeks ago at Peace Arch, I saw this sedan with all its contents strewn across the ground. Camping gear, tent, backpacks, etc. I felt sorry for the couple. They must have said something....... either that or had items that had smell of weed/drugs.

When I go across, I take absolutely the bare minimum. Say only what i have to say and put on the charming/trusting smile I always have.

Sorry to hear your sister had to go through all that. I'm knocking on wood that it doesn't happen to me.

Shes a teenager and went down to Bellingham with her friend. She told them she spent around $30(the truth), and they thought that it was suspicious that she went all the way down to Bellingham and only spent $30. Next time she's leaving her phone at home. She also mentioned that the border guard was very rude..maybe she just caught him on a bad day.

[jeedee]

She told them she spent around $30(the truth), and they thought that it was suspicious that she went all the way down to Bellingham and only spent $30.

Theres your problem right there.

No officer would believe anyone would drive all the way there and JUST spend $30 lol

[finbar]

Keep in mind you get taxed on top of the total amount it cost you to perform the service, including WA state tax, labour, environmental fees, warranties, everything except shipping & handling.

That tax on a tax used to do my head in when I first got here.

[godwin]

Only legal to search if you didn't lock the phone. So on laptops tell them to search on the guest account!

Oh always remember the officiers' badge number. Jot it down afterwards, you are well in your write to write an email etc.

My sister crossed at Sumas a few days ago and went to Bellingham for shopping. On the way back, got pulled over for a search. They went through her car, made a mess, and went through her phone, including private messages. Apparently it's legal but it seems fucking ridiculous..

[ruthless]

Only legal to search if you didn't lock the phone. So on laptops tell them to search on the guest account!

Oh always remember the officiers' badge number. Jot it down afterwards, you are well in your write to write an email etc.

Not true. Whether or not there is a password/lock a border services officer can search the phone/electronic device. A police officer is another story.

If you refuse to provide a password then they can keep your phone until they can get someone to unlock it(hack) and who knows how long that will take ;)

O and an email(complaint) about an officer wanting to go, or going through your phone/electronic device isn't going to do much since it is within the customs act that an officer can search you including your electronics, luggage, vehicle without having reasonable grounds or any suspicions what so ever.

[MG1]

Shes a teenager and went down to Bellingham with her friend. She told them she spent around $30(the truth), and they thought that it was suspicious that she went all the way down to Bellingham and only spent $30. Next time she's leaving her phone at home. She also mentioned that the border guard was very rude..maybe she just caught him on a bad day.

I've gone down for about the same or even less. I tell them I went to casino and did pre scouting for Christmas shopping. The casino thing works well. Sometimes you go down and there's nothing worth getting, except gas.

Last time I told them I had craving for Sonic Drive In food, LOL.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Volvo-brickster]

Only legal to search if you didn't lock the phone.


False.

I know . First hand experience.

[XplicitLuder]

oh i asked a border guard when they sent me in for taxes if its possible im flagged for always getting called in. she said not unless they found something i didn't declare. So i should be fine. Guess i just have shitty luck and get taxed for anything over 200$ :okay:

[ShadowBun]

o man
just came back after a 90 minutes wait at the border

went w/ family
brought back a HB suit w/o paying anything (score!)

[SoulCrusher]

For those interested, Border Security season 2 airs Aug 27 at 9pm on National Geographic channel.
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

Freaking exchange rate steadily dropping. About this time last year, the opposite was happening and our dollar peaked in September at 1.03 ish US.

Today it is below 0.95 and dropping.......

CADUSD=X Basic Chart | CAD/USD Stock - Yahoo! Canada Finance (http://ca.finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=CADUSD=X&t=5d&l=on&z=m&q=l&c=)

In 2007, CDN hit all time high of just over $1.10.

[tool001]

Freaking exchange rate steadily dropping. About this time last year, the opposite was happening and our dollar peaked in September at 1.03 ish US.

Today it is below 0.95 and dropping.......

CADUSD=X Basic Chart | CAD/USD Stock - Yahoo! Canada Finance (http://ca.finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=CADUSD=X&t=5d&l=on&z=m&q=l&c=)

In 2007, CDN hit all time high of just over $1.10.

wait till feds actually start trimming stimulus ,, it will drop down more.

[jeedee]

For those interested, Border Security season 2 airs Aug 27 at 9pm on National Geographic channel.
Posted via RS Mobile

Canada version right?

Season 1 was awesome

[dn53]

Not sure to post here or the 'where can i find this' thread since it isnt exactly local lol. Looking to buy automotive tools across the border that is pretty close as i hear its a lot cheaper. im looking to spend money on quality stuff as i use it for work.

also looking for these gearwrenches any retailers for them? KMS does not carry these otherwise i guess i have to ship them to the border
GearWrench 85988 12 Piece Set Metric XL GearBox Ratcheting Wrench - Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/GearWrench-85988-Metric-GearBox-Ratcheting/dp/B000T8WFBU/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top)

[jing]

Harbour freight... Picked up a low profile 2ton jack for 109 yesterday. 34" reach ftw!
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

Harbour freight... Picked up a low profile 2ton jack for 109 yesterday. 34" reach ftw!
Posted via RS Mobile

Yup, it's their 3 day Parking Lot Sale.

It seems they have one every month, just like KMS Tools and Summit.

Has anyone purchased from them on-line? They have free shipping if you buy X dollars worth. I'm just wondering if they tax you on the items. Save the gas, save the tax, save the time, etc.

[Acura604]

I'm finding that 'regular lineup' gas fillup trips to Blaine between 9pm and 11pm every weekday/weekend to be insanely busy.

usually 5mins to 20mins to ENTER the USA at Peace Arch..

but..

40 mins + to go back into Canada.

I assume its because the USA malls close at 9pm and so the rush of Canadians head back north.

[saveth]

Its bad because of summer holidays. Once kids are back in school it will be back to normal.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Durrann]

I hear nexus lines are getting a bit busier
Posted via RS Mobile

[Kaolinite]

^ not really.. or im just going at the right time lol. Yesterday I went to the states at 12pm? and the wait was only 5min for nexus and the regular line up was way pass the duty free (peace arch)..came back at 4pm and it was still 5min for nexus

[MG1]

I'm surprised nobody has put together a database of wait times and charted it. Location to location, day by day, hour to hour, etc.

It changes too often, I guess. Border services probably has all that info. Perhaps it's on a website somewhere already and we don't know of it yet.

[vixroar]

I'm surprised nobody has put together a database of wait times and charted it. Location to location, day by day, hour to hour, etc.

It changes too often, I guess. Border services probably has all that info. Perhaps it's on a website somewhere already and we don't know of it yet.

There's an app for that: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.calit2.ports&hl=en

This is for Blaine:
https://photos-5.dropbox.com/t/0/AADuuRR3xgVaf34u-NTAGMDpO6ZBRAIZ8U020YvHYupMbw/12/3806093/png/32x32/3/_/1/2/Screenshot_2013-08-24-20-50-51.png/bELaBuD9zbbCUhoJZsY8vjFYUIPbMBYJMNnEUnVwnIw?size=1 600x1200

[MG1]

Thanks......... that is so cool.

[syee]

I'm just wondering if they tax you on the items. Save the gas, save the tax, save the time, etc.

They sure do. It's becuase they have physical stores in WA. (they have a store in Bellingham) Either way, I usually just buy their stuff online and have it shipped. It's only $6.99 for shipping and takes the guesswork of wondering if what you want is in stock at the store.

[MG1]

Got bored, so took off for the border. I'm at Southcenter Mall. Seafood City to be exact. Wife's shopping while I'm chillin in this library that's set up like an Internet cafe. Totally Asian place. Even has a Daiso, LOL. Might check out Museum of Flight/Boeing.
Posted via RS Mobile

[matrixfwd]

I was at the Boeing in Everett a few years back on the tour, it is definitely well worth it. They will take you into the actual factory assembly line to see how they build the planes.


Got bored, so took off for the border. I'm at Southcenter Mall. Seafood City to be exact. Wife's shopping while I'm chillin in this library that's set up like an Internet cafe. Totally Asian place. Even has a Daiso, LOL. Might check out Museum of Flight/Boeing.
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

Sadly, could not convince the rest of my clan to go. I guess I'll have to take Tos'd with me one day.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Skittlez160]

If your postal code is V4Y 2J6, your zip code would be 42600. Kind of cool. I wAnder if this works at other gas stations down south.


This worked like a charm for us today at Sonic. Thanks for the tip!

[sonick]

This worked like a charm for us today at Sonic. Thanks for the tip!

Thanks for the bump, missed this the first time it was posted. Great info, no more having to go inside to pump gas!

[Speed2K]

I was at the Boeing in Everett a few years back on the tour, it is definitely well worth it. They will take you into the actual factory assembly line to see how they build the planes.

I was there last year, and concur it's worth visiting!

[Vansterdam]

can someone give me directions to the nearest Trader Joes from the Border?
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

https://maps.google.ca/maps?client=safari&q=trader+joes+bellingham&oe=UTF-8&ie=UTF-8&ei=tvkdUt6SOsbKiwLWrYHIBA&ved=0CAoQ_AUoAg

Click on the "Directions" button and fill in your home address. Google will list all turns and street names. Just print out the list and you're done.

[saucywoman]

I start a new job tomorrow and was debating about heading to Seattle to go shopping on Sat. (yes I know it's the long weekend :p) What time would be the latest I'd want to arrive at the border to avoid a huge wait time? I'm good with 30 or less. I'd be taking Peach Arch as I live in E Van

tia :)

[dachinesedude]

^ get to peach arch before 8am is usually ok, after that GL

[lilaznviper]

i usually start heading out to peace arch at around 6am, live in east van. by the time i get there line up is about 30-40 minutes.

[smoothie.]

LOL DON'T LISTEN TO THIS GUY ^

It'll be at least an hour wait from 7am and on
Posted via RS Mobile


...of course it puts me on the next page

[dachinesedude]

or go buy something at duty free lol doesnt matter what time then

[Araaadi]

or go buy something at duty free lol doesnt matter what time then

Don't bother with this, last time I went there was a huge line, I went on the shoulder and to the duty free bought some snacks thinking I was a genius. Too bad every other guy did the same thing and I ended up waiting 2 hours to get out of the duty free lot.

[wingies]

Or you'll get ppl like me in the nexus lane honking the shit out of you for trying to squeeze in a blocking the whole lane

[iamon]

Or you'll get ppl like me in the nexus lane honking the shit out of you for trying to squeeze in a blocking the whole lane

They moved the nexus lane at the truck crossing over to the left, no more duty free congestion for us nexus people.

[saucywoman]

Thanks guys for the info. Maybe ill just shop locally instead of heading stateside; it might work out to be the same monetary wise anyhow lol

Smoothie you're so special you have to be on top of the page ;) :thumbsup:
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

I start a new job tomorrow and was debating about heading to Seattle to go shopping on Sat. (yes I know it's the long weekend :p) What time would be the latest I'd want to arrive at the border to avoid a huge wait time? I'm good with 30 or less. I'd be taking Peach Arch as I live in E Van

tia :)

6:00 am and you'll be in a 15 minute lineup or less. This means you will get to Seattle with lots of time to spare. Rest or sleep at rest area once across border.

It's worth going early. Head back early, too. Early bird gets the worm on this one.

[syee]

They moved the nexus lane at the truck crossing over to the left, no more duty free congestion for us nexus people.

I noticed that last time. The shitty thing was I wanted to get something from the duty free too but couldn't get over. However, I didn't want it that bad that I'd wait an hour in the regular lane. Is there a way to get across and back to the Nexus lane to the duty free at the Truck Crossing?

[hiGh_RollA]

didn't think it was necessary to start a new thread for this but my question isn't about border crossing and this seemed like the best thread to ask

Im thinking of going down to seattle next monday and will be staying 1 night in the downtown core (near pikes place market). Since street parking is free on holidays, what time do I have to move my car in the morning (tuesday) to avoid a ticket?

[SSM_DC5]

I noticed that last time. The shitty thing was I wanted to get something from the duty free too but couldn't get over. However, I didn't want it that bad that I'd wait an hour in the regular lane. Is there a way to get across and back to the Nexus lane to the duty free at the Truck Crossing?

I saw someone get their passengers to go up to people's window and ask them to let the car through. got honked by others the whole time, but they made it.

[syee]

didn't think it was necessary to start a new thread for this but my question isn't about border crossing and this seemed like the best thread to ask

Im thinking of going down to seattle next monday and will be staying 1 night in the downtown core (near pikes place market). Since street parking is free on holidays, what time do I have to move my car in the morning (tuesday) to avoid a ticket?

If I remember correctly (and it was about a year ago since I last checked), it was 8am.

I saw someone get their passengers to go up to people's window and ask them to let the car through. got honked by others the whole time, but they made it.

Ah, OK. So that sounds like there isn't a way for NEXUS people to get to the duty free without having to cut across all the regular lane traffic. That's a shame. I'll just have to remember to buy my booze elsewhere.

[MG1]

I'll just have to remember to buy my booze elsewhere.

Perhaps buy before you cross........... seen people do this. Not sure how it works, though.

Perhpas someone who has done this can chime in.

[saucywoman]

6:00 am and you'll be in a 15 minute lineup or less. This means you will get to Seattle with lots of time to spare. Rest or sleep at rest area once across border.

It's worth going early. Head back early, too. Early bird gets the worm on this one.

I started my new job today and have been getting up at 530 all this week in preparation so I am definitely taking advantage of my first real long weekend and sleeping in lol. Also, I don't know if the cost savings will be worth the gas used or travel time spent
Posted via RS Mobile

[ForbiddenX]

How bad do you guys think Friday afternoon will be?

[syee]

How bad do you guys think Friday afternoon will be?

I'd expect probably 2 hour wait time. I went down this afternoon at around 4:30. Line went all the way back to the duty free. NEXUS lane was the same (although it did move faster than the regular lane). Non long weekend Friday mornings are usually close to 45-60 minutes according to the sign on Hwy 91/99 so use that to gauge the amount of traffic to expect.

[MG1]

I'm crossing at 6:00 am Friday........ probably a fair line up even at that time. We'll see.

[MG1]

Planned on leaving house at 5:30 am, but no matter what I try, I cannot get anyone else in family to leave on time, LOL.
Anyway, got to Peace Arch at 6:26 am. All lanes were open and three were empty of cars. I just filled up at Costco. Nobody there, either. $3.499/gal. At McD's right now having 2 $1 sausage burrito and dollar coffee (any size) free wifi, FTW. Heading out to Trader Joe's, Terra Organics, Ross Dress for Less, Kohl's, Michael's, etc. Gonna head back before lunch. This is called no nonsense, no hassles, in and out US shopping.
Posted via RS Mobile

[dink]

This happened last Saturday at Point Roberts. Was coming back after picking up cycling helmet and cycling shoes. It was rather sunny and warm, but me and my buddy had our jackets on. Thin layered jackets and it was zipped up cause I had AC blasting. Canadian border guard's first question was "Are you cold?". I told them yes, I have my AC on max.
long story short, we were asked to go inside and take off our jackets, empty our pockets and put everything on the table. After searching my car, gave back our passports and we left. Didn't even tax me on my items. My buddy and I was talking and we think our jackets made us look suspicious. Then again, he was a new guy on training...

[heleu]

MG1, I'm so surprised you don't have Nexus with the frequency you cross.

I used to go down every 3-4 weeks, and it's nice to not have to "pre-plan" your crossing time.

[ruthless]

Good site to check border wait times coming north

WSDOT - I-5 @ Peace Arch - Canadian Border Area Traffic (http://wsdot.com/traffic/border/default.aspx?cam=1057)

Currently 70 minutes at Peace Arch
15 at Pac Hwy

[melloman]

MG1, I'm so surprised you don't have Nexus with the frequency you cross.

I used to go down every 3-4 weeks, and it's nice to not have to "pre-plan" your crossing time.

Doesn't matter if your crossing before 7am to be honest.
Whenever I would go, I'd make sure I cross prior to 7am, so I can be down by Premium by 8:30, have breakfast and am one of the first people there just before 10am.

[heleu]

Doesn't matter if your crossing before 7am to be honest.
Whenever I would go, I'd make sure I cross prior to 7am, so I can be down by Premium by 8:30, have breakfast and am one of the first people there just before 10am.

That would work for me...but with the wife and kid, it's next to impossible to get to the border by 7am. Heck, I think they're not even rolling out of bed at 7am...:speechless:

[m3thods]

That would work for me...but with the wife and kid, it's next to impossible to get to the border by 7am. Heck, I think they're not even rolling out of bed at 7am...:speechless:

I know that feel.

The trick is to carry them into your car while they're sleeping, then drive to the border! :)

[JesseBlue]

thats not a trick...thats extra work..do what i do and just don't go across especially on a long weekend

[MG1]

MG1, I'm so surprised you don't have Nexus with the frequency you cross.

I used to go down every 3-4 weeks, and it's nice to not have to "pre-plan" your crossing time.

I wake up early. All seniors do. It's like an unwritten rule.

When I go to work, I get there before 7, so on the days I need gas, I go a little earlier. Nexus isn't open at that time in Sumas.

[MG1]

I know that feel.

The trick is to carry them into your car while they're sleeping, then drive to the border! :)

The trick is to leave without them if they aren't at the car by a certain time, LOLOLOLOLOL.


Oh wait.... my kids are like adults, hee hee. Too heavy to carry.

[V4NCITYRIDER]

got to the line up heading to the states around 715 yesterday morning. waited around 1 hr 15 mins to cross. came back to the border at around 10pm. waited 15 mins to cross.

declared 200 dollars worth of clothes, no taxes :)

expecting the worst since it's a long weekend. ended up not being so bad.

[MG1]

For those who shop at Michael's, there are bargains to be had south of the border. First of all, the US Michael's prices are generally lower. I was looking for display cases and on average they are 20 dollars cheaper in the US. I also looked for a Fiskars heavy duty paper trimmer. In Canada, they are $159.00. In the US, $99.00!

Here's the real kicker......... Michael's US rarely (more like once a year, if that) have 50% off coupons, but Michael's Canada has them quite often (5 or 6 times a year). Guess what? The US Michael's stores take Canadian coupons, even though it says right on the coupon, "Canada Only." Something about them having to take competitors coupons.

And yeah, I print out a few coupons. Michael's in Bellingham is right next to Costco, so I get stuff at Michael's first, fill up gas, do some Costco shopping, then go back to Michael's.

[racerman88]

Went yesterday at 10:30am and there was a 2hr wait for the regular line that was almost to the off ramp to get to the truck border. I drove onto the shoulder to get past the back of the line to access the nexus lane. As we made our way down the nexus lane we saw a cop checking the cars right where the nexus lane sign is making sure you were legit.
Took us 5 mins to get over the border.
As we got to Burlington, the traffic at the bridge to go farther south was stopped on the highway so we decided to stay and shop in Burlington instead.

[Graeme S]

Went down this morning at around 6,crossed at Blaine in about five minutes, came back around noon via Sumas. Another 5 minute wait, and $220 worth of declarations got me no tax or duties. A day of shopping well done.

[MG1]

Early bird gets the worm. I don't get why some people cannot get up early. Not that I want them to, LOLOLOLOLOL.

As for Burlington, isn't there another bridge/overpass not that far away? I recall going that way out of curiosity. I guess people aren't adventurous enough to risk it. You cross it and get back on I5 further down.

Burlington is a cool place... always go by the See's chocolate place for free sample.

[racerman88]

I believe it is the road east of the outlets that you have to take to get there.

[l2_narain]

Early bird gets the worm. I don't get why some people cannot get up early. Not that I want them to, LOLOLOLOLOL.

As for Burlington, isn't there another bridge/overpass not that far away? I recall going that way out of curiosity. I guess people aren't adventurous enough to risk it. You cross it and get back on I5 further down.

Burlington is a cool place... always go by the See's chocolate place for free sample.

We went down for a day this weekend and we left at 7am Saturday. One of my friends lost his nexus so he was stuck in line for 1 hour while I cruised through and had breakfast on the other side waiting for him. I couldn't believe it was a hour wait from 7am but then again it was the long weekend.

[Kilinim]

How are wait times this morning?

[MG1]

10 minutes southbound at Peace Arch at 7 am. It's the last day of a long weekend. It's not so much about going south, but rather coming back. The northbound lineups are going to be insane starting at aorund noon, maybe earlier.

Borderlineups.com Webcams - Traffic Lane Scenic Camera (http://borderlineups.com/cam.php?CamID=2)


http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt/index.asp

http://www.wsdot.com/traffic/border/default.aspx

[MG1]

So, I've been using this US shipping company called 24/7 for almost a month now. It's a fully automated place. Kind of cool, actually. I went with these guys because they have locations in Sumas, as well as, Blaine. The place is manned during normal hours, so if I need to talk to someone, they are there.

When I go across to get gas in Sumas, it's always before 7 am, so it's very convenient to pick up the parcel while I'm in Sumas. The cost is $3.00 per parcel within a certain size. That's what I pay at the other shipping places, so to me, it's a no brainer.

I had a parcel sent to Blaine a few weeks ago and I picked it up very late. No lineups at the border. Can't beat 24/7 convenience.

[syee]

So, I've been using this US shipping company called 24/7 for almost a month now. It's a fully automated place. Kind of cool, actually. I went with these guys because they have locations in Sumas, as well as, Blaine. The place is manned during normal hours, so if I need to talk to someone, they are there.

When I go across to get gas in Sumas, it's always before 7 am, so it's very convenient to pick up the parcel while I'm in Sumas. The cost is $3.00 per parcel within a certain size. That's what I pay at the other shipping places, so to me, it's a no brainer.

I had a parcel sent to Blaine a few weeks ago and I picked it up very late. No lineups at the border. Can't beat 24/7 convenience.

Do they charge an annual fee? I think most of the parcel receiving shops do now. (around $10/year) If they don't, that's a pretty good price. I think the only gotcha would be oversized packages (ones that don't fit in the automated boxes) need to be picked up during regular business hours from what I remember reading.

[MG1]

Do they charge an annual fee? I think most of the parcel receiving shops do now. (around $10/year) If they don't, that's a pretty good price. I think the only gotcha would be oversized packages (ones that don't fit in the automated boxes) need to be picked up during regular business hours from what I remember reading.

You have to start an account. I put in 20 bucks via Pay Pal. The money is taken out of the account each time you use their service. So, no fee.

It's really cool. They e-mail you whenever a parcel comes in. In the e-mail is a PIN code. You punch in the code at the front door. Once inside, there is another keypad. You simply punch in the same code. You then hear the door of the box your parcel is in open (lock and actuator to push open the door). I've picked up 4 things now and it is so convenient. Nobody there to bother you, small talk, chit chat, whathaveyou. Just go there and get your shit. I guess large items like car body kits and stuff might be a problem. I guess you'll have to call them about that. Probably cost a bit more due to size and whatnot.

My last item was a set of 3D floor mats. It fit in one of the larger boxes, no problem. Still three bucks.

[Simplex123]

They have a locked room accessed by pin for large items that can be accessed 24 hours. On top of that if you have letter size parcels, they only charge $1 for them, but you'll have to go in during their operating hours.
Also they are very honest about the prices. They actually charge by the weight as opposed to TSB at Point Roberts they sometimes charge more when the box is slightly larger.
Posted via RS Mobile

[Gh0stRider]

ya i crossed at midnight and went to 24/7 parcel. Pretty easy to use them. When whenever i want, dont have to fight border traffic and enter my pin.
Posted via RS Mobile

[MG1]

I think the company was started by a Canadian...... not 100% sure. The guy manning the Sumas location told me the other day they are expanding to other border crossings, like Ontario.

[Gh0stRider]

damn...

Surrey woman alleges U.S. border guards 'vandalized' car during inspection

Trying to make a quick trip across the U.S. border for a good deal on a vacuum cleaner turned out to be a bad idea for Surrey resident Helen Louvris.

The 23-year-old Vancouver Community College student borrowed her roommate's car for the trip and she alleges it was damaged during an inspection by U.S. Customs officials.

Repairs to the cover on an airbag will cost her an ICBC deductible of $300.

The other problem is with a piece of the dashboard near the windshield of the 2003 Pontiac Aztek that will be another $300 deductible, which she is going to put off repairing because she simply can't afford it at the moment.

"There was no suspicion whatsoever," said Louvris, who is studying hair design at VCC. "There was no reason to damage the car and vandalize it.

"I did nothing wrong except borrow my friend's car," she said.

"I'm pretty mad and shaken up," she said. "I like the States. It's a great place. I wanted to go for a bargain. It ended up costing me more than a bargain.

"People shouldn't have to go through this."

Louvris even had her record checked before the inspection and she said they found it to be "clean as a whistle."

There is a form to claim damages for the inspection but Louvris said she was told it could take as long as six months to a year and there are no guarantees the claim will be upheld.

Mike Milne of U.S. Customs and Border Protection could not speak directly to Louvris' case but said border guards have the authority to search any person, vehicle or bag.

"If an inspection takes place and there is some inadvertent damage done to the vehicle, there is a process available to the traveller for redress," said Milne.

"Normally, several months is the time frame for it (compensation)," he said.

But it's not surprising accidents happen.

"We get about a million people a day applying for entry (to the U.S.) through our ports of entry," said Milne, who was not immediately able to say how many claims are received or approved and how much was paid out on those claims.

The incident took place the evening of Aug. 24. Her roommate was not interested in the evening trip to Wal-Mart in Bellingham, where Louvris had seen the vacuum available at a better price than in Canada.

He agreed to lend her the car and because she didn't want to go alone, she set out with her sister.

Louvris said she was told that because she was not in her own car she was going to be checked. Inside, she was told borrowing a car was not wrong but since the inspection process had begun it had to be completed. "Later on that night when I was dropping off my sister, I noticed that he had pried off the cover of the airbag and had broken the cover," she said.

There was also damage, alleges Louvris, to a part of the dashboard

[Acura604]

^^^ I don't get these stories lately... and of course, we never hear the border guards side of the story... has anyone on REVSCENE been subjected to these types of searches?

[l2_narain]

^^^ I don't get these stories lately... and of course, we never hear the border guards side of the story... has anyone on REVSCENE been subjected to these types of searches?

Before I got my nexus I got pulled in a couple of times for random inspection heading into states with my van and my car. I have a first-aid and breakdown kits in each vehicle but that's it. They checked both vehicle for anything and had a dog sniff around the van one time but nothing was found. I also got my car checked in Canada years ago but that was because I forgot to take off my sunglasses and the guy didn't like that..

My advice: Keep in interior of the car clean and tidy. Also if your going to borrow someone car, it's good to have written permission. They would like to have some type of notary but if you have something signed stating from the owner you allowed to borrow the vehicle (with your full legal name; whatever is on your passport/Enhanced DL) with date of travel, signature(s), and owner's contact then it should be fine.

BTW - ever since I have nexus I still got pulled in but for tax purposes. I heard you can get your nexus revoked for not declaring everything and I don't want to wait in line again. Plus I got away more then enough times with over the limit by being legit. Honestly is the best policy.

[MG1]

^ Or keep the car so fricken messy, they don't want to go anywhere near it in fear of catching some disease or becoming infestated by insects.

My car is pretty bare whenever I cross. And, I take no more than one jerry can. I do, however, have no less than 6 US casino cards hanging from the rearview mirror, LOLOLOLOL. They know where I'm going.

[604STIG]

I got pulled in years back for an inspection. As I waited inside and was questioned, couple guards went through my car top to bottom. When they let me leave I went back to my car and both A-pillars were hanging down being held by the bottom tab, another minute and they most likely would have snapped right off. Took me about 15 minutes to properly re-install them which I did before leaving. I knew complaining about it wouldn't make anything happen anyways.

[melloman]

Been pulled in afew times.. Had the car searched afew times.

But I know not to keep ANYTHING other then the necessary shit in the car. Or else they might claim I'm trying to bring stuff in to sell (if it looks new). I also vacuum the car the day before just to make sure its extra clean.

I've had friends who got questioned why they kept so much shit in the trunk before.. :fulloffuck: maybe because they're messy fucking people. Want to go to their house and see their room too?

[StylinRed]

i seem to recall a few members having horror stories when crossing the border (like being threatened to be sent to guantanomo) would have to search some threads for it i guess

[Skittlez160]

My advice: Keep in interior of the car clean and tidy. Also if your going to borrow someone car, it's good to have written permission. They would like to have some type of notary but if you have something signed stating from the owner you allowed to borrow the vehicle (with your full legal name; whatever is on your passport/Enhanced DL) with date of travel, signature(s), and owner's contact then it should be fine.



Yes that's correct. I borrowed my mom's car as recent as 2 years ago and I had her write me a note. The one time the officer never bothered to read it or ask for it. The second time around he saw me holding it and asked, "what do you have there?". I replied with, "it's a note from my mom stating that she's given me permission to borrow her car" and he left it at that.

[MG1]

Canadian dollar has been quietly making a comeback from dipping well below 95 cents. It's at 96.6 and rising steadily. Probably won't get to par anytime soon, but a helluva lot better than those 65 cents days, not that long ago. Go, go funny money