Michael Turner
Allowance: SWA permits two free pieces of hold baggage per ticketed passenger. Each item must weigh no more than 50 lb (23 kg) and measure no more than 62 linear inches (length + width + height, 157 cm) to avoid fees. Overweight pieces between 51–100 lb and oversize pieces greater than 62 up to 80 linear inches incur a $75 fee per piece; pieces over 100 lb or beyond 80 linear inches are not accepted for transport.
How to prepare a rigid container: Use a hard-sided box or tote with a firm, lockable lid; reinforce seams with heavy-duty tape and secure the lid with cable ties or a TSA-approved lock. Pad contents to minimize movement, distribute mass so no single side exceeds 50 lb, and fasten loose parts or protrusions. Remove spare lithium batteries, loose fuel, aerosols, wet batteries and other forbidden materials–portable power banks and spare cells must travel in the cabin, not in the hold.
Measurement and documentation: Measure length, width and height and add for linear inches; weigh the packed unit on a household scale before leaving home. Attach an external ID tag with name and contact details, photograph the packed item (timestamped) and keep purchase receipts or serial numbers for high-value goods to simplify any damage or loss claims.
At the airport: Present the container at the ticket counter for tagging; staff will assess size and weight and collect applicable fees. Items that cannot be safely handled (open tops, leaking fluids, unstable shapes) may be refused. If refused or if fees are prohibitive, options include redistributing contents into approved suitcases, arranging ground freight or shipping via a parcel carrier.
Final recommendation: A sturdy, well-sealed hard box will travel in the hold on SWA without issue if it stays at or below 50 lb and 62 linear inches and contains no prohibited or loose batteries; otherwise plan to repackage or ship separately to avoid delays and extra charges.
Accepting Rigid Storage Totes for Air Travel
Recommendation: Transport a rigid storage tote in the aircraft hold only when its combined length + width + height is ≤62 linear inches (≤157 cm) and its weight is ≤50 lb (≤23 kg); otherwise expect oversize/overweight charges or refusal at the ticket counter.
Size, weight and fee specifics
This airline normally allows two pieces transported in the hold per passenger on most domestic fares. Per-piece limits: 50 lb (23 kg) maximum weight and 62 linear inches (157 cm) maximum dimensions. Overweight between 51–100 lb incurs a $75 fee; items exceeding 100 lb are not accepted. Oversize items (>62 linear inches) incur a $75 fee. If a single container exceeds both size and weight limits, both fees may apply.
Packing, securing and handling recommendations
Measure and weigh the container before arrival; present measurements at the ticket counter or drop-off. Reinforce lid seams with heavy-duty packing tape and use a cable tie or tamper-evident seal through built-in handles to prevent separation during handling. Cushion contents with foam, bubble wrap or towels; place fragile items in the center and distribute weight evenly to reduce shifting.
Affix a visible paper ID on the outside and place a copy of contact information inside. Photograph the container and contents before handing it over to document condition. Avoid transporting hazardous materials (including loose lithium batteries, flammable liquids, corrosives) and perishable goods. For high-value or fragile loads, consider ground courier services as an alternative.
If the container is nonstandard (odd shape, protruding handles, loose wheels) contact the airline’s customer service ahead of travel; gate agents and ticket agents reserve final acceptance authority at drop-off. Arrive earlier than usual to allow time for inspection and possible repacking.
Acceptance of Rigid Storage Containers as Hold Items on WN
Rigid resin storage containers are acceptable in the aircraft hold provided they meet size, weight and hazardous-material rules; oversized, overweight or prohibited contents will trigger fees or refusal of transport.
Size, weight and fee limits
| Condition | Limit | Typical fee or outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Standard hold item dimensions | Max 62 linear inches (length + width + height) / 157 cm | Included within allowance if within weight limit |
| Weight per hold item | Max 50 lb / 23 kg for complimentary allowance | Within allowance if ≤50 lb; otherwise overweight fee applies |
| Overweight | 51–100 lb / 23–45 kg | Overweight fee (typically $75); items >100 lb not accepted |
| Oversize | 63–80 linear inches | Oversize fee (typically $75); items >80 in may be refused |
| Extra hold item beyond ticket allowance | Each additional item | Extra-item fee (typically $75) |
Packing and compliance recommendations
Measure and weigh containers at home to avoid surprises at the counter. Fasten lids with heavy-duty tape or padlock-compatible cable ties and add external straps to prevent lid separation during handling. Cushion fragile contents with foam, bubble wrap or clothing; place heavier objects near the base and lighter/fragile items above. Remove spare lithium batteries and carry them in the cabin per transportation security rules; install required batteries in devices only if the device is in the cabin or accepted per airline rules.
Do not pack flammable liquids, aerosols with propellant, or other hazardous materials inside storage containers destined for the hold. Seal any containers of liquids to prevent leakage and attach a small absorbent pad inside as extra protection. Affix a durable external tag with name, phone number and flight details; retain purchase receipts and photographs of high-value items for claims documentation.
Gate and ramp crews handle rigid containers like other hold items; marking an item “FRAGILE” does not guarantee special handling. For oversized, irregularly shaped or high-value loads, contact the carrier’s cargo/oversize desk in advance to confirm acceptance procedures and potential additional fees.
Measure and weigh storage containers to fit the airline’s size and weight limits
Keep total linear dimensions (length + width + height, including wheels and handles) at or below 62 in (157 cm) and gross weight at or below 50 lb (23 kg).
Measuring dimensions
- Close and fasten the lid; measure with all external parts attached.
- Measure length: longest exterior side from end to end, including built-in handles or protrusions.
- Measure width: widest exterior point across the short side, including side latches or grips.
- Measure height: from bottom of wheels or base to highest point of the lid or attached handle in stowed position.
- Add the three measurements to get linear inches; convert to centimetres by multiplying inches × 2.54 (62 in = 157 cm).
- For irregular shapes, measure at the widest points in each axis and use those figures; any straps, buckles or external pockets count toward the total.
Weighing accurately
- Use a handheld hanging scale or a digital luggage scale that clips to handles. If unavailable, use a bathroom scale and the two-step method: weigh the container alone, then with person holding it and subtract the two readings.
- Weigh with the lid closed and fastened; include any packing materials that will go into transport.
- Record weight in pounds and kilograms (50 lb = 23 kg). If weight falls between units, round up for safety.
- Aim for a buffer: target no more than 45 lb (20 kg) and 60 in (152 cm) total to avoid last-minute repacking or fees.
- Tools: 6–8 ft tape measure, digital hanging scale, marker for labeling measured values.
- If over limit: redistribute contents into another container, remove nonessential items, or replace with softer, compressible packaging that compresses under handling.
- For multiple compartments, measure and weigh each assembled piece as it will be presented at the ticket counter or hold area.
How to pack, seal and label a storage tote for hold travel and potential TSA inspection
Recommendation: Use a rigid storage tote with a lockable lid, cushion all contents with at least 1″ of foam or triple-layer bubble wrap, place heavy items flat on the bottom, and leave a 2–3″ perimeter of empty space to allow a quick visual inspection without crushing fragile items.
Packing layout and item placement
Base layer: lay a 0.5–1″ closed-cell foam sheet to isolate contents from shocks. Place dense items (tools, boots) directly on that layer; secure each heavy piece with a 2–3″ band of foam or cloth to prevent shifting. Fragile items: wrap individually with three layers of bubble wrap (minimum 3/16″ bubbles) plus a layer of linen or clothing; position these in the center surrounded by soft goods. Electronics: power off, insulate connectors with anti-static wrap, place in a hard case or double-wrap in padding; include a printed inventory and serial numbers inside.
Liquids and aerosols: keep in sealed plastic travel bags inside a secondary waterproof container; remove spare lithium batteries and carry them in the cabin per current TSA/airline rules. Sharp objects: blade guards or sheathing required; place in the middle, not near the lid. Use a rigid divider (plywood or corrugated plastic) under the lid to prevent lid intrusion during handling.
Sealing methods, locks and labeling for TSA access
Do not use permanent rivets, industrial adhesives, or glue that prevents opening. Fasten the lid with two methods: 1) a pair of thin stainless-steel cable ties routed through latch holes as tamper-evident seals; 2) one Travel Sentry or Safe Skies approved lock on an exterior latch so Transportation Security Administration agents can open when necessary without destroying the locking mechanism. If non-approved locks are used, expect removal.
Apply tamper-evident tape across the lid seam in two parallel strips and note serial numbers of any seals on the internal inventory sheet. Place a duplicate paper label inside the tote with full name, mobile number, destination address, and a short contents list; secure that sheet in a clear zip pouch. Externally attach a weatherproof ID tag on two opposite sides with the same information and an external copy of the inventory; write a secondary contact and flight date in pen on the tag for faster return if separated. Take dated photos of packed contents and seals before handing over to the airline.
If an inspection occurs, TSA typically leaves a white Notice of Inspection and reseals with official tape; if a non-TSA-approved lock blocks access, it may be cut. Avoid sealing methods that permanently alter the container or destroy proof of contents–prefer tamper-evident seals and labels that can be audited.
For alternatives to rigid totes, consider checked suitcases with spinner wheels: best luggage sets with spinner wheels. For rain protection and compact storage options, see best umbrella warrant. If transporting cleaning equipment or outdoor gear, review compatibility with accessories such as the best pressure washer wand for garden hose.
Fees, liability and damage-claim process for a rigid storage tote transported in the aircraft hold
Treat a rigid storage tote as one of the passenger’s two free pieces stowed in the aircraft hold; any additional piece, overweight or oversize surcharge will apply at the ticket counter.
Typical fee schedule (verify on the carrier’s current tariff before travel): two free pieces per ticketed customer; third piece surcharge approximately $75 per item; oversize surcharge for items exceeding 62 linear inches (length + width + height) approximately $75; overweight surcharge for items weighing 51–100 lb approximately $75; items over 100 lb or over the carrier’s maximum linear dimension are generally refused.
Measurement and weighing take place at the check-in or ticket counter. If the tote triggers a third-piece, oversize or overweight surcharge, payment is collected at that point. If the container is accepted but contains items restricted from the hold (batteries, aerosols, certain liquids, fragile valuables), the carrier may remove those items or refuse transport.
Liability limits are governed by the carrier’s Contract of Carriage and applicable international conventions for cross-border trips. For domestic itineraries the carrier’s published liability cap for damage, loss or delay of items stowed in the hold will apply; compensation typically takes the form of repair, replacement or cash reimbursement up to that cap, subject to depreciation and exclusions (high-value items, inadequate packing, or contents excluded by policy).
Immediate steps at arrival if damage, loss or delay is suspected: report the issue to the airport Baggage Service Office before leaving the facility and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or reference number; retain the boarding pass, bag tag receipt, and any inspection notices left by security agencies.
Documentation required for a formal claim: PIR/reference number, boarding pass and tag photos, time-stamped arrival information, clear photos of exterior and interior damage, original purchase receipts for container and contents, serial numbers, and receipts for any emergency purchases related to delay. Keep the damaged container and all removed contents until claim resolution unless instructed otherwise by the carrier.
Filing deadlines and procedure: complete the carrier’s online claim form and upload supporting documents as soon as possible after reporting at the airport. Most carriers require damage reports within 24 hours of arrival for domestic flights and have longer windows for delayed delivery or presumed loss – review the Contract of Carriage for exact deadlines. Expect an acknowledgement with a claim reference and a timeline for evaluation; typical adjudication periods range from a few weeks to 60 days depending on documentation and whether repair estimates are needed.
Settlement outcomes commonly include repair authorization, replacement allowance, or a cash settlement reduced for wear-and-tear and depreciation. If settlement is denied or unsatisfactory, escalate using the carrier’s appeals process, provide additional evidence (receipts, repair quotes, police reports if theft suspected), and, for international itineraries, reference applicable treaty rights; small-claims court is an option after administrative remedies are exhausted.
