Best wording to regularly cross the USA border without incident?

Question

I am Canadian, and often cross the border, sometimes on Business, sometimes on Pleasure. They have decided to question me regularly now, and I am doing nothing wrong, but it takes a lot of time -- I now have to plan to arrive early.

I think it's because I don't answer in the way they expect.

What's the wording you use when crossing into the US border that works smoothly?

Answer 1

It seems they question people more closely when they cross frequently. I am a U.S. citizen living in Canada, and I cross the border weekly at least ... and even I get questioned and drilled about every fourth time. My Canadian husband gets questioned inside about 75% of the time, it has gotten to where I go more often without him just because of the hassle involved.

Other than being direct and honest, I don't know that there is anything in particular to say ... and certainly you wont want to sound rehearsed.

I agree with keeping your car clean and only having minimal items in it, as well as applying for a Nexus pass.

Answer 2

If you are crossing the border quite often you might check into getting a Nexus card. The background check is extensive, but it is a quick way to cross the border without delay.

Odds are you are being stopped because you have a name that is on the "watch" list. My son has a name that is on the list as it is a common name and one of a famous musician. He is not able to get a online boarding pass with Southwest because of his name. There really is no way to get your name off of the "watch list".

Answer 3

when they ask you "Where are you going" - tell them exactly where you're going and the purpose. keep it short and clear.

when they ask you "Are you bringing anything with you" - simply say "no" (unless you are)


also it depends on your movements and expressions while driving thru the tunnel/bridge. they got cameras and they have someone watching them all the time to notice if anyone in the cars driving thru is acting "strange" and therefore may be suspicious and/or bringing illegal stuff with them.

also, keep your vehicle CLEAN and EMPTY. they have mirrors so when they can see what's in your car without having to get up and look inside of it. if it's always empty and spotless, they tend to like that.

lastly, you can always get a NEXUS pass but those often have longer waiting times than the regular lanes, for some odd reason.