Families living close to the Canada- US border will know how relatively easy it is to cross to the other side for some shopping. This can be a good time to save up on weekly groceries or just spend some time with the family. Unfortunately, there are certain rules that must be followed in order to cross the border back to Canada safely. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be sure to enjoy your shopping experience.
If you haven’t shopped in the US for awhile, you might think that the dollar amount of your purchases is limited per visit. This is still true today. However, newer legislation has lifted the heavy restrictions of the past, allowing for more goods to flow through the other side.
You should also be aware of the exemptions allowed for Canadians. Typically, you are given 24 hours to shop for goods that are up to $ 50 in value. If you go beyond this limit, your exemptions are void. Thankfully, you can raise this limit by bringing along more people as this rule is on a per- person basis.
Don’t get carried away with all of the benefits however as you might end up spending more than you bargained for. Before you head over for the border, plan ahead and write down what you intend to buy. This will not only allow you to control your spending, it will also help you go through Customs with less hassles.