04-18-2005, 10:32 AM
In anticipation to a trip to Vancouver Island later this month, I spoke to US Customs today regarding the Small Boat Reporting System (SBRS). Here's what I was told:
Until further notice, the SBRS is still in place. The only thing that has changed is that the Personal ID Number (PIN) is no longer being used. This means that Customs will ask the boater for all the information (name, address, boat information, etc.), rather than just asking for the PIN. Just like in the past, a boater needs to have cleared customs once in person (i.e. the name and personal information are already in the Customs computer) in order to use the SBRS. In addition, Customs reserves the right to request that a boater clear Customs in person. At some time in the near future the procedure will be totally revised.
Raul
Until further notice, the SBRS is still in place. The only thing that has changed is that the Personal ID Number (PIN) is no longer being used. This means that Customs will ask the boater for all the information (name, address, boat information, etc.), rather than just asking for the PIN. Just like in the past, a boater needs to have cleared customs once in person (i.e. the name and personal information are already in the Customs computer) in order to use the SBRS. In addition, Customs reserves the right to request that a boater clear Customs in person. At some time in the near future the procedure will be totally revised.
Raul