score:5
In the end it was sufficient to arrive 10 minutes in advance. In fact it's better not to arrive early as the bus won't open the door until 15 minutes before departure.
On the way back (Seattle to Vancouver) it is likewise sufficient to arrive 10 minutes before departure, whether you're taking the bus or the train. The only time when it's recommended to arrive 30 minutes in advance is when you take the train from Vancouver to Seattle, as the passport control is at the train station.
Upvote:2
I've taken both the Amtrak Cascades and the Amtrak bus from Vancouver to Seattle many times before.
When going from Vancouver, BC to Seattle customs inspection actually happens at the border for both bus and rail. It is only when coming from Seattle to Vancouver, BC does rail have inspection at the station.
The reason why you're requsted to arrive early is so that an operator can ensure that you have everythingyou need to cross the border (mainly a passport). This helps prevent delays at the border, and the possability of having to leave somebody behind.