This latest episode at the border, just reaffirmed to me, exactly why I totally dislike having to go into Canada. We made it to Ferndale, WA on Thursday, and got the last parking space that was available. It was non stop slush coming down, and by the time we walked across the parking lot to the Denny's to enjoy a New Year's lunch, we were walking in at least 2 inches of water/slush on the ground.
We got up early this morning to start out at 5am, not knowing what the wait would be like at the border, and arrived there 15 minutes later, with no lines or waiting trucks. As is normally the case, if the paperwork is done correctly by the Broker, it is hassle free getting into Canada. This morning would prove no different. A quick run through Canadian scales and we were a short 14 miles away from delivering the orange juice we had on board.On snow and ice covered roads, we found the Receiver's address and saw no signs of life, no surprise there, we were 2 hours ahead of our appointment. As soon as we saw movement, a little before 7am, Craig checked in and was given a dock to back into. By 8:30am we were unloaded and had gone empty on the Qualcomm. We headed towards the border and that is where the fun began.
We were oh so careful to avoid taking the wrong road as we neared both the Peace Arch and Pacific border crossings. Making that mistake once was enough for the old ticker to take back in 2006. Carefully following the signs, we made our way to the checkpoint. Now, having had problems in the past, we are both so very diligent about checking all signs posted to make sure we are doing exactly what they want us to do. We pull around, see the green arrow for an open Border Agent and then hear this:
"What are you doing in my lane"? as one of the most surliest of agents addresses us.
"Uh, we saw the green arrow and thought you were open"?, says us in our most sincere and politest voices.
"This is the Fast Lane. I'll be keeping your passports and you just got yourself an inspection. Pull around to the dock and open your doors", he says.
Oh great. Why oh why does this happen? I swear there were no signs anywhere, but of course there must have been and we just missed them. Off around the corner we go, park the truck and go inside to admit our stupidity and sit and wait for them to inspect the truck. I, having a great need to use the restroom at that point, it took me awhile to finally understand the Border Agent with the thickest eastern block accent I have heard, that the key to the restroom is attached to a big blue hardhat sitting on the counter. So much for trying to sneak out with that key.About 20 minutes later, a very nice Agent calls out our truck number, and pleasantly hands us our passports and sends us on our way. We happily pull out and shut our doors and head south as quickly as we can. As Craig said, 'Let's get while the getting is good, I don't relish the thought of having a body cavity search"! I was quick to second that!
10 comments:
you would think that the US customs would treat the citizens of the USA just little bit nicer. when you are trying to go home. Its the same for me when I try to get back to Canada it is more nerve raking trying to get in to your home country.
We have NEVER gone or come back across the Canadian border and had it be a pleasant experience.....both ways. Really.
Seems like a lot of bother. Sounds like someone was needing to demonstrate his great power. the body cavity search would have been very upsetting.
Give someone a little authority and see what happens?
sorry for the experience, hopefully you won't have to do that again any time soon!
I've never crossed the border since I started driving a big truck but when I was driving tour buses it was a fairly regular thing. Going into Canada was always fairly easy. But coming out was ALWAYS!! a pain in the butt. The border guards were always as rude as they could be. I never enjoyed those return trips.
The only reason they made Canada is so we'll appreciate the good ol' USA. I'm serious.
Gimme Mexico any day.
I've have it with the US Customs - ANY of them who treat me with less than anything but respect will get reported. There are a whole host of web sites and e-mail addresses that can be used to report officers and, of course, a quick call or e-mail to your Congressperson does wonders. You should NEVER have to feel any stress about dealing with these folks. And I make sure of it.
Thanks V.Grumpy....... I will look up a website to voice our concerns along with an email to our Congresswoman.
You are right, it shouldn't be stressful at all. We were more than polite and the agent was just downright RUDE!
I hate to say it but crossing the border into Canada isn't the problem the problem is with your own people.
Anon -
If you read my post, I agree. I said crossing into Canada wasn't a problem. Our problems always come from when we have to cross back into the USA. The attitudes and procedures of the US Border Agents have much to be desired!
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