As the long-feared sequestration becomes a painful reality for the country, the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol assures the nation that it will deal with budget cuts in a way that minimizes the impact on operations according to the new sequester-focused pages on its website.
In an effort to prevent major disruptions as a result of the budget cuts, the CBP says it will be improving automated systems that receive advance information on cargo and passengers, working more closely with other government agencies to make its risk-based strategy more efficient and working with other countries to create a more unified approach to supply-chain security.
Due to the furloughs, land border crossings will be delayed several hours, passenger processing times may increase by 50 percent, and ocean port cargo inspections could take up to an additional five days. CBP will have no special procedures for conveyance diversions, but Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism members will continue to get front-of-the-line service for examinations.
CPB advises importers to pre-fill entry information so any issues can be resolved before the cargo reaches the U.S.
