Community Forums

Randall55 · 08-08-2022, 08:09 AM

I am planning a short trip to Ohio and was wondering what I can bring regarding food. I have checked the US CBP website and for the most part the only thing I am restricted on is fresh fruits and veggies which is no big deal. I am wondering though if I can bring PB with me. Any help is appreciated.

Skip426 · 08-08-2022, 03:42 PM

" PB " ?

I've found that it all comes down to the particular border agent and his interpretation of the current rules .

Best I've found is to use up what you have on board , on the way to the border , cross with an empty fridge, and Google the closest Walmart on the US side of the border; on your route; and stock up there.

followingsea · 08-08-2022, 04:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skip426

" PB " ?

I've found that it all comes down to the particular border agent and his interpretation of the current rules .

Best I've found is to use up what you have on board , on the way to the border , cross with an empty fridge, and Google the closest Walmart on the US side of the border; on your route; and stock up there.

Sounds like good advice. Did the same thing when going to Canada.

Have a list of things I would like to say to border agents in response to expected questions that they have to ask.

Name? Bond, james Nond!

Jim.B1 · 08-08-2022, 09:33 PM

We cross annually from Ontario to Michigan at the Windsor/Detroit border.

Things we "never' carry onboard when entering the US, or on return to Canada include:
-eggs, produce of any kind, fruit, vegetables, mutton or lamb including cooked or as an ingredient.

Items we have never had any issue with in 10 years including:
Fresh/Frozen Beef, Pork, Poultry, Processed meats, Fish, Homemade Chili/Lasagna, Cheese, Condiments, Bread, Crackers, 1-2 bottles of wine, soft drinks, bottled water.

Suggestion:
Arrive prepared to discuss what you do have onboard, include how much cash you are carrying, arrive with "all" entry doors unlocked and if the guard boards your coach, remain seated and "no attitude".

Not really a big deal if you are honest.

CamperLifer · 08-09-2022, 02:32 AM

Why not mutton or lamb ? Is there some sort of religious persecution at the border ?

To the OP - PB is readily available everywhere in Ohio.

Griswald One · 08-09-2022, 02:41 AM

Outside of Covid years we cross 3-4 times a year. Generally we travel pretty light only bringing things like condiments, snack food and the PB. Always avoid the fruits and vegetables. We have had two Agriculture Inspectors come on board over the years and were given a clean pass both times following this plan.

If you love your PB... Bring it with you.. You can't get Kraft in America, at least not that we have ever found. And the stuff that passes for PB in the States is just not the same.

Be prepared for sticker shock too this year. We just came back from two weeks in Myrtle Beach and we found we were paying the same price or more for many of our groceries, before the exchange on the dollar.

Jkwilson1989 · 08-09-2022, 06:12 AM

Poultry and eggs are heavily restricted right now.

Country Road · 08-09-2022, 08:04 AM

PB is peanut butter. We don’t use it.

darnold9999 · 08-09-2022, 10:32 AM

We go once a year. If you carry groceries across be prepared for detailed questions and a significantly increased risk of being stopped and inspected. Prepared and processed food in original containers not generally a problem. Our rule of thumb is that any agricultural item grown in the US cannot be brought across fresh or in bulk from outside the US unless you can prove that it was actually grown in the US. Rice for example in its original container that says grown in the US is ok while the same rice in a ziplock bag is not. By and large we only bring items you can’t get in the US and shop in our first stop. Makes the border crossing much simpler.

tom92 · 08-09-2022, 11:00 AM

Be sure to declare any alcohol you may have. You can bring as much as you want, but may have to pay duty if it is over 1L of 80 proof alcohol or a case of beer. Duty is only about $3/liter so don't go emptying it into the sewer if you have extra. Chances are they will not bother to send you to pay for normal quantities. I actually recommend stocking up at duty free as it is usually much cheaper than US prices, at least at the Windsor border crossing.

RV_Lee · 08-10-2022, 02:33 PM

Lamb is often in dog food, pretty important if they make you toss fidos favorite food and now he's puking up the new stuff everywhere (as mine would). Transition your pet over long before hand lol