Border Crossings & Customs
Cruising between Washington and British Columbia means crossing an international border. When you cross, you must report to customs. BoatRoutes flags routes and trip legs that cross the border so you know to plan for it.
Customs rules change, so this page stays high-level. For the steps you must follow, use the official sources linked below. They are the source of truth.
The Customs Required Badge
Section titled “The Customs Required Badge”Some routes and trip legs show a Customs Required badge. The badge means the path crosses the US–Canada border. You will need to clear customs on the side you are entering.
The badge is a heads-up, nothing more. It does not change the route or the timing. It is there so a border crossing never surprises you. When you see it, plan to stop at a port of entry and report.
What a Port of Entry Is
Section titled “What a Port of Entry Is”A port of entry is a place where you are allowed to arrive from another country and report to customs. Not every marina is one. You must enter the country at an approved port of entry, then report before anyone else leaves the boat.
Both countries publish their lists of marine ports of entry. Pick your entry point before you cross, and make sure it is on the list for the country you are entering.
Entering the United States
Section titled “Entering the United States”When you arrive in the US from Canada, you report to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
- CBP Pleasure Boats — the main CBP page for pleasure-boat reporting rules
- CBP ROAM — a free CBP app for reporting your arrival from the boat; it needs a free login.gov account
Entering Canada
Section titled “Entering Canada”When you arrive in Canada from the US, you report to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
- CBSA private boat reporting — the official page for reporting a private boat to Canada
- CBSA NEXUS program — a trusted-traveler program that can speed up clearance for pre-approved members
Before You Cross
Section titled “Before You Cross”A few things to line up ahead of time, in general terms:
- Read the current rules on the official pages above. They change.
- Have your boat’s papers, everyone’s travel documents, and a crew list ready.
- Know which port of entry you will use and that it is approved for the country you are entering.
- Report as soon as you arrive, before anyone other than the operator leaves the boat.
The official pages cover the exact steps, who must report, and how. Follow them, not a summary.