I crossed into Canada and returned to the U.S. in May of this year. Four of us took firearms and ammunition into Canada and returned with bear meat and hides. Crossing the border in both directions was not a problem but there are strict laws both sides enforce, without humor!
It would be foolish for me to try to explain the requirements because if I miss stated the rules or you misunderstood me, you could find yourself in a mess at the border and screw up your trip.
Read through the following web page and assume the most restrictive interpretation if something doesn’t make sense. They follow their rules unapologetically…… so don’t assume it will be okay if something isn’t just right on your part.
They will help you fill out the paper work, if you ask them “politely and patiently” for help. Usually……….. it takes about 15 to 20 minutes, per person, with firearms, to get through the paper work, on both sides. However, that is after it’s your turn at the counter. If they are busy, and they can be very busy, you can be there waiting for your turn for an hour or more.
Going from the U.S. into Canada, you’ll stop at the American side first, to get paper work done, so you can bring your firearms back into the US, on your way home. While you’re there, after you get your paper work on the US side done, ask the US agent what is required to bring your big game animals back into the US after your hunt in Alaska. Do the same thing on the Canadian side, because you’ll need to enter Canada at the Akaska/Canadian border as well.
It looks and sounds overwhelming…….. it’s not. Thousand of Americans do it year round without any problem.
Two things to know to start. You will need a PassPort and DO NOT even try to take a handgun or pepper spray.
Have a great trip. It’s a great drive and everybody should do it at least once in your lifetime.
List of prohibited weapons, firearms classification and information to import and export weapons.
www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca