SURREY, B.C. — The first phase in a joint cross-border pre-inspection program for truck cargo is already underway on the west coast.

Phase I will see U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers assigned to Canadian border crossings to pre-inspect southbound trucks before they arrive in the States. It will also test newly developed joint technology and procedures between the U.S. and Canada to allow CBP primary truck processing in Canada. The first phase is designed as a “proof of concept.” 

To use the CBP pre-inspection stations, traders must be a part of CBP’s Fast and Secure Trade (FAST) program. If you’re a part of FAST, participation is not mandatory.

In Canada, the pre-inspection will include radiation screening and basic primary processing. South of the border, secondary inspections will happen only if needed.

This pilot project will last for up to six months, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phase II will look at the ability to reduce cargo wait times.

The pilot project, taking place at the Pacific Highway crossing near Surrey, B.C., is a joint effort between CBP, Canada Border Services Agency (CBPA) and Public Safety Canada as a part of the “Beyond the Border” initiative between the two countries.