NEXUS Newbie - Returning to US Question

M

MikeR

New member
Can someone clarify the procedure for returning from the Gulf Islands into the San Juan Islands for a US Citizen, with a NEXUS card?

Do you call the 800-number as soon as you cross the boarder into the US (e.g., in the shipping lanes!)?

Or are you supposed to get your boat near one of the regular Customs offices (Roche, Friday Harbor, etc) before calling the Nexus number in case they want to inspect you? Can you call anytime 24/7, or do you have to call during normal business hours?

This site is about as clear as mud to me. The first paragraph indicates no in-person reporting is necessary, just call the 800-number. But then if you continue reading through, it says, "Arrivals may be made at any of the locations below. Call the phone number of the location nearest to your arrival location in advance of your arrival to report and receive specific instructions."

So now I'm not even sure what number I'm supposed to call.

On the other hand, the Canadian websites are excellent so I have no questions about the process going INTO Canada. Only confused about coming home.

Thinking about a quick excursion to Canada for Sunday night after the Stuart gathering to "try out" my new Nexus card...

Thanks
-Mike
 
Call the 800 number once you've crossed the border. No need to get near a port of entry unless they tell you to.

Normally they ask where you're coming from, where you're going, what your Canadian clearance number was, and if you have anything to declare. If you already have a BR number they'll ask for that. If not, they'll ask for boat registration, brand, etc.
 
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