
Crossing the US-Canada border in Michigan can be a breeze if you're prepared. The Ambassador Bridge, which connects Detroit to Windsor, is one of the busiest border crossings in the world.
The bridge is open 24/7, making it a convenient option for travelers. However, if you're driving, be aware that there may be delays during peak hours.
The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is another popular crossing option, offering a more direct route between the two cities. It's also open 24/7, but be prepared for potential delays during rush hour.
To ensure a smooth crossing, make sure you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport, driver's license, and car insurance.
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Border Controversies
The Detroit International Bridge Company's private ownership of the Ambassador Bridge has been a contentious issue, with the bridge carrying around 25% of trade between Canada and the United States. This has sparked concerns about monopoly status, despite alternate routes like the Detroit–Windsor Tunnel existing.

The company's failure to connect bridge access roads to I-75 and I-96 as part of the Gateway Project led to a court finding them in contempt in 2010 and 2011. Matty Moroun and his deputy were even jailed for non-compliance.
Local residents have also been vocal about the negative impact of truck traffic on their neighborhoods. The Michigan Department of Transportation eventually took over the I-75/I-96 on-ramp project and opened the ramps in September 2012.
Matty Moroun's duty-free store and fuel pumps have been a point of contention, with critics arguing that the tax revenue from fuel sales should be used to fund Michigan's highways, not line Moroun's pockets. In 2012, a lawsuit claimed Moroun's company, Ammex, was mislabeling motorcar fuels to advertise 93 octane.
The Ambassador Bridge's deteriorating condition has been a concern, with Windsor city officials criticizing its appearance and highlighting the hazard posed by crumbling concrete.
Blue Water Bridge and Smart Freight

The Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron, Michigan, is a crucial crossing point for truck-borne goods movement between the US and Canada.
The Blue Water Bridge International Smart Freight Corridor Project aims to implement a proof of concept (POC) of a smart corridor at the Blue Water Bridge (BWB) and the Port Huron Port of Entry (POE).
The main goal of the smart corridor is to enable the unimpeded flow of information among commercial carriers, shipping companies, vehicles, border agencies, and infrastructure operators.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) through a Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Program Grant, the project is a significant step towards improving the efficiency of goods movement at the US-Canada border.
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Autonomous Crossing and Technology
In 2017, two automated driving vehicles traveled more than 300 miles, crossing the U.S.-Canada border.
This event marked the first cross-border demonstration of its kind, showcasing the capabilities of automated driving technology.

The journey began in southeast Michigan and culminated at the Center for Automotive Research’s annual Management Briefing Seminars in Traverse City.
The vehicles traveled through Windsor and Sarnia, Ontario, before returning to Michigan.
This cross-border test was supported by MDOT and the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), aiming to evaluate automated driving technology in various environments.
The partnership with Continental and Magna International Inc. played a crucial role in the success of this endeavor.
The demonstration highlighted the potential of automated driving technology to improve border crossing efficiency and safety.
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Detroit-Windsor Border Crossing
The Detroit-Windsor border crossing is a major hub for international trade, with the Ambassador Bridge being the busiest United States/Canada truck crossing, handling around 8,000 trucks and 68,000 travelers daily.
You'll want to be aware that there are 17 traffic lights between the Ontario/Quebec border and the Ambassador Bridge, all of which are within sight of the bridge as traffic makes its way down Huron Church Road.
Make sure to review the toll rates for the Ambassador Bridge, which can be found on our page about tolls for bridges along the U.S.-Canada border.
Before heading to the border, review the necessary information on preparing for customs and prohibited items to ensure a smooth crossing.
Ambassador Bridge Information

The Ambassador Bridge is a major border crossing between the US and Canada, located in Michigan. It's open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it a convenient option for travelers.
If you're a NEXUS member, you're in luck - the Canadian port is equipped with the NEXUS eGate, which allows border officers to remotely handle your clearance from inside a CBSA office. This service is available in up to 3 dedicated lanes.
Commercial Services are available only Monday through Friday, with more limited hours than the regular crossing. If you need to use these services, it's best to call the border office for more information.
The Ambassador Bridge also has a Ready Lane, which is open from 6AM to 10AM Monday through Saturday. This can be a great option if you're looking to speed through the crossing during peak hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What town in Michigan borders Canada?
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan borders the Canadian city of the same name, offering a unique international experience. Visit this charming town for stunning shoreline views and exciting water activities.
How many border crossings are there between Michigan and Canada?
There are 4 land border crossings between Michigan and Canada. These crossings are among the busiest between the two countries, with high volumes of traffic.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambassador_Bridge
- https://www.michigan.gov/mdot/travel/mobility/initiatives/smart-border-crossings
- https://www.ezbordercrossing.com/list-of-border-crossings/michigan/ambassador-bridge/
- https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/news/2019/07/30/michigan-canadian-border-staff-shortages-travel-commerce/1828649001/
- https://upnorthlive.com/news/local/agents-face-challenges-patrolling-michigans-721-mile-border-with-canada
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