IMPORTANT!!!!! Nw customs check in procedure

[Frank Walsh]

https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/cbp-pilot-project-aims-make-us-entry-more-efficient-lake-woods-area


Please click on the above link and read the story. Looks like we are now at phase three where the OARS phones that you have been using to report into the U.S. are history, and have been replaced by the kiosks or smart phone app.
You may wish to download the app before your upcoming trip, and be allowed to check in without stopping. Otherwise expect a different experience.


Link to the APT. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.dhs.cbp.app.oars&hl=en_CA


Also available on Apple.

[Frank Walsh]

Additional info: https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/sports/outdoors/4540065-us-customs-and-border-protection-expands-roam-border-crossing-app

[Frank Walsh]

I would say my first experience with the kiosk at Jerry’s was a total failure. I met a guest there to help him through his first experience, and could not make it work. There must be various versions of the software floating around. I was told by the Jerry’s people that they have been using the “guest check in” feature to check in. It was not available on the screen although they said it was there an hour prior, and was on the instruction guide pasted to the wall. The normal sign in requires you submit, and receive an email to create an account. I am virtually certain than when I did the phone app, there was an option if you did not have access to email. Without it, we were dead in the water. I tried using my email, but would not work. I assume a safeguard to not set up two accounts on an email account. So, based on this you have to have access to your email right there. We ended up fighting for a phone check in, and eventually got it.

Looks like they still have a bunch of bugs to work out. Even thought you are not on location, you may want to get this thing debugged on your phone before you get here. And be sure to have email access here.

[Frank Walsh]

I stand corrected. A little bit anyway. The email did eventually show up on my phone after I got home. To be sure when I was at Jerry’s I verified that I was connected to their wi-fi.

[Frank Walsh]

Overall has been a disaster with customers using the kiosk. 100% failed, and ended up calling in. I'm sure they'll get the bugs out eventually. I would strongly suggest if you have the wherewithal, I would download and learn to use the app. Here's a helpful article sent to me by a friend. http://commutercruiser.com/step-by-step-how-to-use-the-cbp-roam-app-to-check-in-to-the-us/

[Frank Walsh]

Been posting updates to this on my "Frank Walsh" Facebook page.