Nexus is your friend: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-t...programs/nexus

Those who know the risks book accordingly. But its the first timers who have yet to learn about immigration times and just accept whatever the computer or TA gives them are the ones caught out.

To be balanced, as previously stated, I have enjoyed 2 hour immigration queues at several USA entry points. But a week ago I had no delay at JFK (mid morning arrival from HND) and walked straight up to a pleasant human and was out in the baggage hall in no time at all. Just astounding. Don’t know how those last off the plane fared though.