That 72 hour requirement caused me a lot of stress. I'll tell you everything I took into account.
First, theres the website (
https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export/export-docs/motor-vehicle) which says:
Exportation at land border crossing points. For those vehicles exported by rail, highway, or under their own power.
The required documentation must be submitted to Customs at least 72 hours prior to export; and
- The vehicle must be presented to Customs at the time of exportation.
This seems cut and dry, documentation must be submitted 72 hours before and vehicle must be present at crossing. I planned around this and submitted my documents 72 hours ahead. When I submitted the documentation by email, I received a reply which contained the following:
Remember, the vehicle must remain in the United States until you have completed the export process. If it is discovered that the vehicle was taken to Canada prior to completing the export process, the exporter is subject to penalty and monetary fines, as well as seizure of the vehicle.
On one hand I though, whats the point of doing anything? The vehicle is already in Canada, I'm already breaking of their rules, but, just because you're breaking the rules doesn't mean you should flaunt them. I was frightened into driving my vehicle down to the US. I drove my vehicle down and left it before coming back for it 3 days later. I had it in the US for about 60 hours. I figured, if they ask, I want to be able to answer that I made a good faith effort to obey their rules.
What happened in the end? NOTHING! Nobody ever even asked how long it had been in the US or if it had been in Canada at all. It was smooth sailing at the border.
To answer your questions:
- Did I cross back and stay before my crossing? Sorta, I crossed back, for 60 hours.
- What did I say at the border? "I live there." They never asked, and I strongly doubt they will ask. You're a US citizen driving your US licensed vehicle into the US, you and one thousand more today. If your conversation goes like mine has gone many times: "What were you doing in Canada?" - "I live there" - "Have a nice day"
- What did I say about my vehicle? Nada, you WILL NOT be grilled at the border, again, US citizen entering the US. The default is entry, not denial. They aren't worried about you over staying your visa or moving in, the US is still your country.
- How would they know your vehicle has been in the US for 72 hours? First, they'll ask you. Answer how you please. Just know that they DEFINITELY have a database of border crossing and license plates. Whether or not they consult is a matter of how bored or busy they are, or if they even care. If they want to know when your vehicle crossed the border, they have the information in the computer.
In summary, I was going to just cross immediately before exporting until I received their reply. Maybe you play it by ear. When you submit your documents, if you don't hear you need have your vehicle across the border, don't. I found their reply very motivating. Or you could call them and see what they want
Good luck
