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New Small Boat Reporting Procedures Now In Effect

Release Date
Mon, 07/02/2018

CBP Introduces a New Application for Small Boat Reporting in the Great Lakes

DETROIT –As part of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) comprehensive effort to improve the security of our nation's borders while enhancing legitimate travel, CBP has launched the Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile (ROAM) app and added Michigan to the list of available locations. 

Screenshot of CBP ROAM app
CBP ROAM app

The ROAM app offers a convenient, quick, and efficient alternative to the number currently used to report small vessel entry into Michigan by providing:

  • A streamlined reporting process with reusable traveler and mode of travel profiles
  • Shorter wait times by reporting from a smartphone instead of calling in
  • Remote inspections by CBP Officers (CBPO) using video chat as necessary

To use the ROAM app, travelers input their biographic, conveyance, and trip details and submit their trip for CBP Officer review. The CBPO may initiate a video chat to further interview travelers. Once the CBPO reviews the trip, travelers will receive a push notification and an email with their admissibility decision and next steps, if applicable.

Travelers enrolled in the Local Boater Option (LBO) registered traveler program and other Trusted Traveler Programs, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI, can save their traveler number in their profiles to save additional time when returning to the U.S.

“Boaters making entry into Michigan with the ROAM App can now expect a streamlined process when reporting their entry,” said Christopher Perry, Director of Field Operations. “We look forward to working with the boating community to enhance compliant travel into the U.S.”

To use ROAM on your mobile device, download the app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. In certain locations, the ROAM app can also be accessed on tablets at partner locations.

The ROAM application is now available in the Detroit, Port Huron, and Sault St. Marie, MI areas.

If boaters have any questions about reporting their U.S. arrival to CBP, they should contact their local port of entry. Detroit Area (313) 393-3949, Port Huron Area (810) 985-9972, or Sault St. Marie (906) 632-7221. For questions and comments about the ROAM app, please email cbproam@cbp.dhs.gov.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021