Opening Hours
Standard Hours: Open 24/7 year-round
Seasonal Adjustments: NEXUS lanes operate from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time
Holiday Closures: No closures for major holidays, though staffing may be reduced
Wait Time & Traffic
Average Wait: 5-15 minutes during off-peak hours; 30-45 minutes during peak periods
Peak Times: Weekday afternoons (3:00–7:00 PM PST); Weekend mornings (8:00 AM-12:00 PM)
Express Options: NEXUS lanes (10:00 AM to 6:00 PM) offer <10-minute processing for pre-approved travelers
Border Facilities
Immigration Processing: Available 24/7 on both sides; Canadian side features automated passport control (APC) kiosks
Customs Processing: Available 24/7; FAST-approved carriers enjoy dedicated lanes with expedited clearance
Health Screening: Periodic health screenings for avian flu; COVID protocols may be reinstated during outbreaks
Services: U.S. side has currency exchange via Travelex kiosks and 24/7 restrooms; Canadian side offers more comprehensive services including food options
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible lanes on both sides; Tactile guidance paths for visually impaired pedestrians; Service animal relief areas 100 meters north of Canadian booth
Official Resources
United States Border Authority: U.S. CBP Sumas Port | +1 (360) 988-0511 | Sumas Port Page
Canada Border Authority: CBSA Huntingdon Office | +1 (604) 504-3412 | CBSA Pacific Region
Travel Advisories: U.S. State Department Canada Page | Government of Canada Travel Advice
Overview
The Sumas-Huntingdon border crossing serves as a vital connection point between Sumas, Washington, and Abbotsford, British Columbia. This 24/7 operational port facilitates approximately 190,000 annual vehicle crossings, making it an important secondary route for travelers seeking to avoid congestion at larger ports like Peace Arch. The crossing features multiple lanes dedicated to different types of traffic: southbound movement from Canada utilizes two truck lanes and four auto lanes, while northbound traffic into Canada employs one truck lane and six auto lanes. NEXUS-approved travelers can benefit from expedited processing during designated hours, though these special lanes operate under restricted hours to align with peak commercial activities. Recent infrastructure improvements aim to enhance the crossing experience, with streamlined procedures for both personal and commercial traffic. The crossing also accommodates pedestrians, whose numbers have grown due to cross-border parcel pickup trends, with dedicated channels ensuring efficient processing times of under 15 minutes.
Document Requirements
- Valid passport (validity extending at least six months beyond planned departure)
- Appropriate visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Canada
- ESTA authorization for U.S. entry (for Visa Waiver Program countries)
- Proof of funds and return travel
- Detailed travel itinerary
- I-94 arrival/departure form (for U.S. entry)
- Valid Canadian passport
- NEXUS card (preferable for frequent crossers)
- Enhanced driver’s license (for BC residents)
- Certificate of Indian Status card (for indigenous peoples)
- Criminal rehabilitation approval documents for those with DUI convictions
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card
- Enhanced driver’s license (EDL) accepted at land borders
- NEXUS, FAST, or SENTRI cards for expedited processing
- Birth certificate with government-issued photo ID (less recommended but acceptable)
- For minors: Birth certificate and, if traveling with only one parent, notarized consent from the absent parent
Crossing Procedure
From USA Side
Approach dedicated exit lanes (trucks or passenger vehicles)
Prepare documentation for all vehicle occupants
Complete visual inspection by CBP officers who verify possession of valid entry credentials for Canada
Present passports or NEXUS cards at automated kiosks
Declare any firearms, alcohol, or tobacco products exceeding personal allowances
Undergo potential secondary inspection focusing on agricultural contraband if selected
From Canada Side
Proceed to primary inspection booth staffed by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) agents
Present travel documents and respond to questions about visit purpose, duration, and goods transported
Complete goods declaration for all items acquired abroad (personal exemptions capped at CAD$200 for 24-hour visits and CAD$800 for 48+ hour stays)
File FINTRAC reporting forms if carrying currency exceeding CAD$10,000
Proceed to secondary inspection if directed by CBSA officers
Clear health screening procedures if applicable during public health alerts
Special Considerations
Vehicle Imports/Exports: Temporary import permits required for non-resident vehicles staying over 30 days; Commercial imports require advance electronic filing
Goods Allowances: Personal exemptions of CAD$200 for 24-hour visits and CAD$800 for 48+ hour stays into Canada; Similar allowances for U.S. entry with specific limits on alcohol and tobacco
Prohibited Items: Cannabis products (both directions despite Canadian legalization); Pepper spray into Canada; Cuban tobacco into U.S.; Certain over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine into Canada
Currency Restrictions: Movements exceeding $10,000 USD/CAD require declaration to both CBSA and FinCEN; Undeclared funds subject to seizure
Known Issues: Winter weather conditions on connecting highways (SR 9 and BC Highway 11) may require chains for commercial vehicles; Summer construction occasionally reduces northbound lanes
Accommodations
Hotels and Restaurants in near Border United States
Sumas River Lodge: Budget motel (0.8 km south) with truck parking
Border Town Café: 24-hour diner offering USD/CAD cash exchange
Shell Station with convenience store (open 24/7)
Hotels and Restaurants in Near border Canada
Huntingdon Manor Hotel: Mid-range option (2.3 km north) with EV charging stations
Highway 11 Truck Stop: Includes restaurant and diesel fueling
Tim Hortons (2.5 km north): Popular Canadian coffee and light meals
Better Options Nearby
Abbotsford, BC (15 km north): Full range of accommodations and dining options
Bellingham, WA (40 km southwest): Larger city with extensive hotel choices and restaurants
Public Review Sentiments
Based on total reviews found online, the Sumas-Huntingdon border crossing generally receives positive feedback from travelers. Efficiency during off-peak hours is frequently highlighted, with many reviewers noting minimal wait times when crossing during early morning or late evening periods. Staff professionalism is commonly praised, with border agents described as courteous and thorough while maintaining necessary security protocols. NEXUS lane availability during daytime hours receives appreciation from frequent crossers who value the expedited processing. However, some travelers report inconsistent processing times during afternoon peak periods (3:00–7:00 PM), with waits occasionally extending to 45-60 minutes. Limited facilities on the U.S. side is another point of criticism, with reviewers noting fewer amenities compared to the Canadian side. Several reviews also mention communication challenges during periods of increased scrutiny or special security measures, suggesting improved signage could benefit first-time crossers.
Traveler Experiences
"I go across the border reasonably often to collect packages or visit the nearby parks. The Canadian border services agents are always polite and friendly considering the seriousness of their jobs. I try to help by making sure I have all necessary documentation ready." - Jeremy Wedel, March 2025
"Visited Canada for the first time in a number of years, travelling from Mt. Baker area and decided to cross at Sumas/Huntington. We arrived mid-morning and were the only car there. The border agent couldn't have been nicer, and after a few questions we were on our way." - Iain Brodie, February 2025
"I'm a dual citizen but have grown up and raised in Canada. I have had nearly no issues with the staff here, always pleasant and lets me through relatively quickly. Lanes are far better than on the counter side border crossing." - Jayne, February 2025
DISCLAIMER: This guide provides general information based on data available at time of publication. Border regulations, requirements, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current information with official government sources before travel. BorderRoute.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or outdated information. Travel decisions and border compliance remain the sole responsibility of the traveler.
