Using the Ferries to Move to Alaska

Moving by Ferry Can Be Easy
Using the Alaska ferries to move from the Lower 48 to Alaska is not only a relaxing & time saving alternative to driving, but provides some of the most remarkable scenery found anywhere. It's important however to be prepared and follow the guidelines.

Also note that many Inside Passage ports (Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Petersburg, Wrangell) are located on islands, so if moving to Anchorage or Fairbanks between Oct and Feb you will need to travel to Haines & then drive through Canada after disembarking.
Between March and September travelling through Canada can only be avoided by taking the cross-gulf ferry from Bellingham to Whittier 

Crossing the US /Canada Border
Canada has very strict regulations border crossing regulations and being prepared will make the crossing quick & easy.
Always answer any border officers' questions politely, completely and honestly.  Do not be chatty or evasive.

Passports
Anyone over 18 yrs crossing any border anywhere, now needs a valid passport.   Children under 18 yrs & travelling with their parents do not require passports.

Firearms:

The Alaska Marine ferry system allows passengers to travel with sealed, empty weapons. Any ammunition must be stored in a place separate from the gun.
Handguns and any automatic or semi-automatic guns are illegal in Canada & can result in both confiscation & entry refusal 
Unloaded rifles & ammunition can be taken across the Canadian border but must be declared at the time of crossing

DUI Convictions (driving under the influence)
Canada considers a DUI conviction a felony and may refuse entry into the country. Travellers with a DUI are advised to call their State Justice Department to get the charge expunged so there are no disappointments at the border.
A handy site is http://www.ezbordercrossing.com/the-inspection-experience/prior-criminal-offenses/resolving-criminal-inadmissibility-to-canada/#.V-yuWNze70o

Pets
Pets must have a certificate of good health ( done within 30 days of travel & have a current rabies tag.
Open dog food is ok to take into Canada from the US but it is not OK to take that same open food into the US from Canada

Active Duty Military
Soldiers on active duty and being transferred to a base in Alaska can present their Transfer Orders at the boarder in lieu of a passport.