Canadians like shopping. They used to go through the border to the Unites States to get more opportunities for shopping. They do it at least several times a year. Why not? It takes little time to cross Canadian territory and get to American shopping paradise. Where to go? The first recommended place to visit is Buffalo, New York and the rest of the Niagara Falls territory. You cannot find any other such a favorable place in search of bargains. So, here is a guide for successful cross-border shopping.
Learn how to shop in the USA?
Make a Plan of Your Trip
Don’t be surprised that your shopping needs a plan. If you want to get through the border in the fastest and easiest way and avoid wasting time for hot shopping hours, you need a plan. Late Friday and Monday are not good for making purchases. You have to stand a long line then. One more thing, there is a helpful website which is called Canada Border Services Agency. This is a place where you can find out the crossing rules, useful mobile apps and other important information for travelers.
Get Nexus Card
As it was said, your shopping tour starts from getting across the border. It usually takes much time. Do you want to forget about this unpleasant moment and get through the border in the fastest way? You are recommended to buy a Nexus card. It’s a kind of bonus to join the short line and get through the border fast. This is also your chance to join the program of US Customs&Border Protection. It’s really time-saving! Be attentive: every passenger that comes with you for shopping should have Nexus card also.
Money Value
Money question is always important. Check the dollar value before you start shopping tour. Thus, for a day-long trip, when you are going to stay in the country for 24 hours, you can buy goods tax-free for $200. Staying in the USA for 48 hours and more, you can buy goods for the sum of $900, including alcohol and cigarettes. Never forget to declare your purchases.
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Tax-Free Shopping
There is a happy rule for all shoppers. It says that you may not to pay tax for some purchases. Honestly, you shouldn’t pay tax for the most of products you take with you back to Canada, especially for those that are made in Canada, Mexico, and neighbor countries. It’s because Canada can boast special free-trade agreements with all these countries.
USA Credit Card
If you used to visit US frequently, you should ask for American credit card. Why do you need it then? It is not charged a foreign transaction fee on purchases that you’ve made in America. This card makes your shopping less problematic and more profitable. Where? Try to ask for such a card in the bank of Canada or US, no matter. It gives you benefits and even more.
USA Bank Account
If you already get the USA credit card, you may also ask for the American account. What to know more about it? You can pay from your bank account, without any currency exchange fees. Of course, the difference is not big, but shopping often, it’s really money saving. This is a way not to worry about the different values of Canadian and American money. You can pay your US bills from your American account. Of course, this is a profitable deal only if you are mad shopper, who used to cross the border every weekend.
Look for Canadian-Attractive Deals
You can find a lot of interesting deals that are made for Canadian shoppers specially. It can be discounts, promotions, super sales or week sales that definitely make their shoppers happy. How can you know about sales? It’s easy! You can check the websites of those shops and malls that you are going to visit this time. There are also special trade offers for Canadians in the local hotels and restaurants. Just visit their websites and ask for loyalty programs participation beforehand. You may get special coupons or try to visit US for holidays. State holidays such as American Thanksgiving day or Independence day, and Christmas holidays bring big sales.
Of course, shopping abroad is always cool! Being a shopaholic, you have a chance to cross the Canadian border and go for shopping to the US territory. Buffalo is the nearest and most favorable platform for shopping. Of course, you are supported by special US cards and bank accounts. Be attentive, remember about the difference in Canadian and US prices. Your deal looks great, but isn’t it still attractive considering the exchange rate, tax-free deals. Free-trade opportunities give you a unique chance to shop in the neighbor country without any problems. Just remember the information above and enjoy your shopping!