Crossing the Canadian Border When You Life After Alaska

Documents for every traveler

U.S. citizens entering Canada by land need proof of identity and citizenship. A passport book or passport card is the most widely accepted. Re-entering the U.S. by land requires WHTI-compliant documents such as a passport, passport card or NEXUS card. Children have their own rules, so check both agencies.

Non-U.S. citizens traveling with you may need visas or an electronic travel authorization, depending on nationality and how they enter. Check well ahead, because processing takes time.

Also have vehicle registration, proof of insurance valid in Canada, and a rental contract if you're driving a rental truck.

Minors traveling with one parent or guardian

If a child is traveling with only one parent, or with someone other than a parent, border officers may ask for a consent letter signed by the absent parent or parents, with contact details. Custody documents can also help. Carry copies of birth certificates. The Government of Canada publishes a recommended consent letter template.

Firearms

This is where most Alaskans get caught off guard. Canada's firearms laws are far stricter than Alaska's. Firearms in Canada are classified as non-restricted, restricted or prohibited, and many handguns and some long guns that are legal in Alaska are restricted or prohibited in Canada.

• Prohibited firearms generally cannot be brought into Canada.
• Non-restricted firearms, such as many hunting rifles and shotguns, may be allowed if declared and with the required form and fee.
• Restricted firearms require advance authorization that is rarely granted for transit.
• Many magazines, ammunition limits, and items such as pepper spray, bear spray, stun guns and some knives have their own rules.

Always declare firearms and weapons at the border. Failing to declare can lead to seizure, fines and criminal charges. If your firearms aren't clearly allowed, the safest options are usually to ship them legally to yourself or through a licensed dealer in the U.S., or to fly with them following airline and TSA rules. Check the CBSA firearms page and the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program before you go.

Cannabis

It's illegal to bring cannabis into Canada or into the United States across the border, in any form, including edibles, oils and CBD products, even with a medical prescription. Leave it behind, and clean out the vehicle before you go.

Food, alcohol, cash and other goods

• Food: some meats, dairy, fresh fruits and vegetables are restricted. Wild game and fish have specific rules. Pack only what you'll eat on the road and keep it accessible for inspection.
• Alcohol and tobacco: personal exemptions are limited. Amounts above them may be taxed.
• Cash: you must report currency and monetary instruments over CAN$10,000 when entering Canada, and over US$10,000 when entering the U.S.
• Firewood: generally don't bring it. Pests travel in wood.

Pets

Dogs and cats from the U.S. usually need proof of current rabies vaccination to enter Canada. Re-entering the U.S. has its own requirements. See Moving pets from Alaska.

Household goods in transit

If you're carrying your household in a rental truck or trailer, tell the officer you're moving from Alaska to the Lower 48 and passing through. A typed inventory list with approximate values makes the conversation easier. Goods in transit may need specific documentation or a bond. Professional movers handle this paperwork for road freight shipments.

At the booth

• Turn off the radio, remove sunglasses, and have everyone's documents in hand.
• Answer questions directly and honestly.
• Declare everything you're unsure about. Officers can help you, but not if you hide items.
• Expect a possible secondary inspection with a fully loaded vehicle. Build time into your day.

Our upcoming Border Crossing Checklist generator will build a personalized list from your travelers, pets, firearms and vehicle.