[sm203900]

I deal with customs on a daily basis and they can be incredibly difficult. Things to note, always get an officer's name, initials, or badge number, it is the only way to hold them responsible for anything, never accept that it was done by ATC of FSS. Secondly, the 24 hour number is 1-800-XSECTOR, this will get you to an individual that has the phone number to any customs office after hours, there is always someone on call. Finally, the minimum fine that customs can dish out is $5000, once a person receives the fine in the mail the individual can contest it, but usually the fine will stand.

Here is the pisser, you can set customs up correctly and the customs office still may forget to note your arrival, the burden of proof is on the individual not on the customs agent, again always get a customs agent''s information. Twice in the past year I have had customs agents forget to show up to clear an aircraft, glad I had their info on a recorded phone line.

Although there are some great cusoms agents, most are rude and unprofessional, especially in Florida.

For info on customs regulations check CFR Title 19 part 122