Border crossing

Scope

Motor carriers that enter and exit the U.S. have to be aware of both safety and security requirements.

Regulatory citations

• None

Key definitions

• None

Summary of requirements

The driver and vehicle must meet all applicable U.S. laws and regulations upon entry into U.S. commerce, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The opposite is also true. Drivers entering Canadian or Mexican jurisdictions must comply with all requirements while involved in foreign commerce.

The commercial driver must present the appropriate identification to gain entry into the U.S. under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) . The cargo cannot enter the U.S. unless the shipment’s manifest information has been submitted in advance in accordance with the e-Manifest requirements. The e-Manifest information must coincide with what the importer and broker have submitted for their compliance efforts. Any discrepancy may result in a secondary inspection, delaying the shipment and eating up invaluable hours-of-service time.

Participation in CBP’s voluntary security programs such as Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) and Free and Secure Trade (FAST) may help to expedite the shipment through program benefits.