Many people use the summer months to travel over the border to stay and shop in the United States, this time of year parents may cross over for deals on school supplies. Regardless of the reason, anyone returning to Canada with goods from the U.S should be aware of applicable exemption limits and what must be declared.
Corporate Chief for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Scott Kienlen says exemptions depend on the time spent outside Canada. After 24 hours, $200 CAD worth of general goods is allowed, after 48 hours it increases to $800. After the designated amount, duties and taxes will become applicable.
“Within the $800, there's a liquor and alcohol exemption as well. On alcohol, it would be 24 beer or 40 ounces of spirits or 1.5 liters of wine. And for the tobacco products, it's one carton of cigarettes and 7 ounces of cut tobacco would be allowed as part of your exemption.”
All purchases or items acquired in the U.S must be declared when crossing, regardless of if taxes or duties are applicable. Firearms or any other weapons must also be declared.
“You'll be questioned too, whether you have any currency over $10,000 Canadian or not coming into the country. You'll be asked a cannabis question. The rule of thumb is don't take it out of Canada and you can't bring it in.”
When declaring items acquired in the U.S, Kienlen suggests having all receipts tallied and ready when preparing to cross. A total should be calculated based on the value of all acquired items, including flea markets or similar purchases, and gifts received.
“If a declaration is not accurate, and we do secondary exams to confirm declarations, they may be subject to penalties. Depending on what it is, there could be criminal charges laid or whatever the circumstances would be. Goods can be seized, and penalties applied. It really depends on the situation."
Alongside having all receipts and tallies ready, other ways to ensure a smooth crossing is having all travel documents and I.D on hand, and checking border wait times to decide on the most efficient time to arrive.
“If you're not sure, ask the CBSA officer. [The] best thing you can do to save time is to be open and honest with our officers. Be sure to follow all instructions they provide to you. And if you're not sure about something, what to declare, don't hesitate to ask. Our officers are here to help to make your border crossing experience great.”