In a significant move, U.S. border officials have declared that intensified checks on vehicles bound for Canada are now a permanent measure. This change follows increased concerns over drug smuggling and human trafficking along the northern border.

During a recent exclusive tour of operations at the Blaine border crossing, officials shared insights into the ongoing efforts to secure the border. The port director, along with specialists from agriculture and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, outlined that the heightened security measures began on May 1.

While most Canadian travelers typically return with everyday items like gas and groceries, the necessity for thorough vehicle inspections was underscored by a recent incident involving the seizure of ammunition from a Nexus traveler. U.S. border officials emphasized that these searches, despite yielding limited finds so far, are crucial in combating the flow of illicit substances across the border.

Controversially, U.S. officials dismissed rumors that they are inspecting Canadians' personal messages or probing their political opinions about former President Donald Trump. Misconceptions aside, the debate surrounding Canada's role in U.S. drug issues continues, with federal narratives often pointing fingers at the north for the fentanyl epidemic—despite evidence showing that substances like MDMA and methamphetamine are more prevalent.

Recent seizures included alarming finds such as bags of herbal tea laced with cocaine, along with creative smuggling attempts—like over 48 grams of marijuana hidden within teddy bears just last month.

Yet, despite these security measures and alarming scoops, a notable trend is emerging: border crossings are seeing a sharp decline. Data from the Whatcom Council of Governments revealed that crossings dropped dramatically from 213,714 in May 2024 to just 113,997 in May 2025, marking a staggering 47 percent decrease.