From documents to duty-free goods, here’s what you need to know before hitting the border this long weekend
THUNDER BAY – LIVING NEWS – With the Canadian Thanksgiving long weekend just around the corner, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is reminding travellers — especially those heading south to Minnesota or Wisconsin from Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario — to plan ahead for a safe and smooth return to Canada.
The CBSA expects higher traffic volumes at ports of entry, including regional land crossings commonly used by Thunder Bay residents. Officers will be working around the clock to process travellers efficiently while continuing to protect Canadians from illegal drugs, weapons, and other prohibited goods.
In 2024, CBSA officers processed over 93.4 million travellers, seized over 34,400 kilograms of illegal drugs, and kept more than 17,200 weapons and 930 firearms off Canadian streets.
“Expect wait times — but know that our officers are doing critical behind-the-scenes work,” the agency says. That could include intercepting stolen vehicles, seizing dangerous goods, or stopping high-risk individuals from entering Canada.
Top Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Return
Whether you’re crossing at Pigeon River, Fort Frances, or flying back into Canada, these tips from the CBSA can save you time and stress:
🛂 Have Your Travel Documents Ready
Keep passports or travel IDs easily accessible to speed up processing at the border.
🦃 Declaring Poultry and Other Foods
Planning to bring back turkey or leftovers from a U.S. family gathering? Don’t — poultry and bird products from the U.S. may be restricted due to avian flu precautions. Homemade meals and leftovers with poultry are not allowed.
🛍️ Know What You’re Bringing Back
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Canadian residents can return with goods duty-free, up to certain limits, depending on time spent abroad.
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Keep receipts and know the value in Canadian dollars.
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Alcohol and tobacco exemptions apply — know your limits.
⚙️ Be Aware of U.S. Tariffs
As of September 1, 2025, a 25% surtax applies to U.S. imports of steel, aluminum, and autos. Check the full list if you’re buying goods south of the border.
🧭 Plan Your Route & Timing
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Early morning crossings tend to be faster.
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Monday of long weekends is usually the busiest.
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Use alternative ports of entry or check the CBSA wait times online.
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Confirm hours of operation and consult apps like Google Maps or Waze for route options.
✍️ Travelling with Children? Bring a Consent Letter
If you’re travelling with a child you don’t have full custody of, bring a letter of consent from the legal guardian. Officers may ask questions to ensure the child’s safety.
🎆 Bringing Fireworks or Firearms? Don’t
Only authorized fireworks are allowed. Firearms, weapons, narcotics, and cannabis are prohibited and should not be brought into Canada.
💬 Not Sure What to Declare? Just Ask
Be open and honest with CBSA officers. When in doubt, ask before you cross to avoid fines, seizures, or even criminal charges.
Resources for Travellers
For additional questions, call 1-800-461-9999 or visit www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca.
