Michael Turner
Yes – if a checked bag is opened for manual inspection you should receive a physical tag or sticker on the exterior and a written notice placed inside the item before it is re‑sealed; carriers also log the event in their baggage tracking system and may send an SMS or email when passenger contact data is on file.
Typical indicators: a tamper‑evident seal or plastic tape, a card labeled “screening notification” or “inspected by,” an exterior sticker with an inspector ID, and an entry in the airline’s baggage record. Security screening units (e.g., TSA in the US, equivalent agencies elsewhere) use X‑ray explosive detection systems for all checked items; manual examinations occur when alarms trigger or randomized protocols require further inspection.
Practical steps if you discover an inspection notice: 1) Photograph the tag, seal and interior notice immediately; 2) Keep boarding pass and bag claim tag; 3) Record the inspector’s name or badge number shown on the card or sticker; 4) Check contents and list missing or damaged items; 5) File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with the carrier at the baggage desk before leaving the terminal and obtain a copy.
Timing and claims: carriers commonly require domestic loss/damage reports within 24–72 hours; for international travel follow Montreal Convention/IATA rules – damage reported within 7 days, delayed delivery claims within 21 days. If valuables are missing, obtain a local police report and present it with your PIR. Keep receipts, serial numbers and photographs to support reimbursement requests.
Preventive measures: carry electronics, medications and irreplaceables in the cabin; label bags inside and out with name and phone; photograph packed contents and exterior condition before check‑in; use TSA‑approved locks and tamper‑evident straps. When contact details are provided at check‑in, expect faster notification by text or email if a manual inspection occurs.
How terminals notify passengers their checked baggage was opened (tags, forms, stickers)
Keep and photograph any inspection tag, sticker or seal attached to your checked baggage immediately; this evidence is required for a property irregularity report with the carrier and for insurance claims.
- Common marker types:
- Adhesive sticker with agency name/logo and short message (affixed to exterior).
- Folded paper tag or slip stapled to a handle or placed inside the case.
- Plastic tamper-evident seal or numbered cable tie used to reseal the case.
- Clear reseal bag enclosing contents with a printed slip showing inspection details.
- Typical tag content: agency name, officer ID or badge number, inspection date/time, reason code (security, customs, biosecurity), a reference/case number and a contact phone or email for follow-up.
- Resealing methods and indicators: tamper tape with printed serial, heat-sealed plastic bag, numbered pull-tab; many slips explicitly state whether items were removed, repackaged or left intact.
- Forms left inside: short printed notices often mirror the external tag and sometimes include a checklist of removed items or instructions for retrieving seized goods.
- Regional examples: US inspections typically include a Transportation Security Administration tag; UK border checks use a Border Force or HMRC slip; Australian biosecurity may place items in a sealed evidence bag with a departmental tag.
- Document everything: photograph the external tag, seal number, exterior damage and the interior before you repack.
- Inventory contents immediately; create a dated list and photograph any missing or damaged items next to packaging for clarity.
- Present the tag and your documentation to the carrier’s baggage service desk at the terminal before departing whenever possible; if you must leave, submit the carrier’s online claim and attach photos and the tag reference.
- Use the contact on the inspection slip to query the inspecting agency if the tag indicates removal or seizure; ask for the case/reference number and a written inventory if one exists.
- Retain tags, seals and all receipts for replacements; insurers and carriers require originals or clear photos when processing claims.
Claim deadlines vary by carrier and jurisdiction; check the carrier’s policy–commonly within 7 days for international damage or missing items and within 24–48 hours for many domestic cases.
How to verify a bag was inspected: visual signs and documentation to request
Take timestamped photos immediately and demand a printed inspection record with inspector name, agency and reference number.
Visual signs to photograph and note: zipper teeth mismatches, new adhesive strips or tape overlapping manufacturer seams, cuts or frayed stitching near locks, bent clasps or lock housings, interior packing rearranged or foreign materials added, residue from glue or tamper tape, missing or shifted padding, fresh scuff clusters around corners and seams, and unusual odors indicating chemical exposure. Photograph serial numbers and model labels of electronics, tools and other high-value items.
Request these specific documents and data from the handling agent or carrier representative: a written inspection report (date, time, location), the inspector’s full name and badge/ID number, chain-of-custody or docket number, any tamper-seal serials and a scanned copy of them, an incident reference (PIR) receipt, and a signed statement if items were removed. Ask whether a photo log exists and request a copy.
If damage is present, obtain a repair estimate or damage voucher with itemized costs and the assessor’s signature. If items are missing, insist on an itemized inventory prepared by the inspector and a signed acknowledgement of loss. Request contact details for the claims department and the deadline for submitting a written claim; get all confirmations in writing or by email.
Immediate actions to preserve evidence: keep all original tags and any seal fragments, place loose items back in the bag exactly as documented with your photos, and do not discard packing materials or receipts for at least 60 days. Create a written contents list with serial numbers and purchase dates; attach copies of purchase receipts and warranty cards to your claim file. For specialized gear register serials and proof of ownership (examples of gear owners often record trailer, umbrella and mower details: best luggage trailer south africa, best weight less umbrella, best cylinder mower for family lawn).
Use precise phrasing when requesting records: “Please provide a printed inspection report, inspector ID, chain-of-custody number and any photo log for reference [insert incident reference if provided].” Ask for a timestamped copy sent to your email and note the name of the staff member who agreed to send it.
Timelines and filing tips: report the incident at the service desk before leaving the terminal whenever possible and obtain a PIR receipt; many carriers require initial reporting on site and written claims within 7–21 days depending on route and policy, so file written documentation promptly. Keep scanned backups of every document and photograph, and follow up in writing if promised records are not delivered within 48 hours.
Immediate steps to take if items are missing or your bag was damaged during inspection
File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the carrier or handling desk before leaving the terminal; get a dated copy, the reference number, and the name and position of the staff member who issued it.
Photograph everything: external damage (zippers, seams, wheels, handles), interior condition, removed seal or tamper tags, baggage tag stub, and any exposed contents. Include a ruler or common object for scale and ensure date/time metadata is preserved.
Create a detailed inventory of missing items with model/serial numbers, purchase dates and original receipts where available. For electronics and jewelry note serials and any unique identifiers; if receipts are missing, provide bank/credit-card statements or photos of ownership certificates.
Collect and retain all travel documents: boarding pass, bag tag stubs, PIR copy, inspection stickers or forms, and any handwritten notes from staff. Scan or photograph every document and store backups in cloud storage and local device.
Report suspected theft to local law enforcement and request a police report if valuables are missing. Many carriers and insurers require an official police report for claims involving theft of high-value items.
Keep receipts for emergency purchases (toiletries, underwear, essential medication) and separate them by date. Submit a claim for reasonable immediate expenses under the carrier’s delayed-baggage policy and to your travel insurer; include the PIR reference and receipts.
Obtain repair estimates from at least two certified bag repairers and keep written quotes. For replacement or permanent damage claims retain invoices for repairs or replacement purchases.
Adhere to claim time limits: for international carriage governed by the Montreal Convention, file written claims for damaged items within 7 days of receiving the bag and for delayed or lost items within 21 days from the date the bag was made available or deemed lost. Check the carrier’s published deadlines for domestic travel and insurer windows and comply exactly.
Prepare a claim package including PIR copy, photos, inventory with values, receipts, repair estimates, boarding pass, bag tag, police report (if applicable) and a short timeline of events. Submit via the carrier’s official claim portal and send registered mail if written submission is required; retain proof of submission.
Escalate if needed: if the carrier’s response is unsatisfactory, forward the case to the national aviation consumer authority, include the PIR and claim history, and reference the Montreal Convention liability limit of 1,288 SDR per passenger for loss or damage (verify current SDR value at settlement). Also notify travel insurer and the card issuer used to purchase the trip or item.
Keep originals and multiple backups of every document; log names, dates and times of all contacts and replies until the claim is resolved.
Who to contact: roles of airline staff, terminal security, and customs after a baggage inspection
Immediately contact the carrier’s baggage service desk, then terminal security and the customs unit if border controls were involved; obtain written reports and reference numbers at each point of contact before leaving the facility.
Airline staff – documentation, claims and deadlines
Request a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and a printed copy of any inspection tag or sticker. Record the agent’s name, badge/employee number and timestamp. Photograph the exterior and interior of the case with a visible timestamp. Submit a written claim to the carrier citing the PIR: damaged items – file within 7 days of arrival; delayed items – submit documentation within 21 days of delivery date (Montreal Convention timeframes commonly apply). Attach receipts, serial numbers, and warranty paperwork for high-value items. Ask the airline for an expected response window and a direct case reference or email for follow-up.
Terminal security and customs – evidence, retention and escalation
Obtain an incident report and any chain-of-custody documentation from the security team; ask for the CCTV request procedure and estimated processing time. If customs inspected or retained goods, demand a written seizure/retention notice that lists the seized items, legal basis, case number and instructions for appeal or recovery. If theft or tampering is suspected, file a police report on site and get the report number; provide that police reference to both the carrier and customs. For unresolved claims, escalate with: carrier customer-relations (include PIR and police report), the national aviation authority, and the consumer protection agency listed on the carrier’s website.
What to request and keep: PIR and reference number, inspection sticker/photo, security incident/chain-of-custody form, customs seizure notice, police report, timestamped photos, original receipts/warranties, agent names and contact details. Retain originals and send copies to the carrier and any regulatory body handling the complaint.
How to obtain official records or file a complaint on a baggage inspection
File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the carrier’s baggage service desk before you leave the terminal; obtain the written PIR, its reference number, and a copy of any incident receipt.
Immediate documentation to request and preserve
Ask for these written records at the point of contact: PIR or claim reference; any official screening or security inspection report; the chain-of-custody document showing who handled the case; a dated statement from the handling agent describing visible condition; and the identity/name and badge/employee number of the agent who completed the inspection record. Photograph the bag, contents, damage, tamper-evidence devices and the incident paperwork (all pages and serial numbers) with timestamps.
Collect original purchase receipts, warranty cards, serial numbers, and valuation evidence for missing or damaged items. Keep the boarding pass, baggage claim tag, and any delivery receipts. Do not discard packaging or repair estimates; they are evidence for a claim.
Where to send records and how to submit a formal claim
Submit a written claim to the carrier named on your ticket (use the carrier’s official claims address or portal). If the incident involved a screening authority, request their inspection report and file a separate complaint using that agency’s online form or postal address. For customs examinations, request a copy of the customs report and, if items were seized or reported missing, file with the customs authority within their deadlines.
| Contact | Record to request | Typical deadline | How to submit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air carrier / ground handling | PIR, written receipt, inspection comments | Damage: 7 days; Delay or loss: 21 days (Montreal Convention) | Carrier claims portal, registered mail, in-person baggage services office |
| Security screening agency (e.g., national transport security) | Screening/inspection report, agent ID, CCTV request reference | Varies by agency – request immediately | Agency online complaint form, email, or formal letter |
| Customs / border control | Customs examination report, seizure paperwork | Follow customs statutory period; act immediately | Customs office counter, official portal, certified mail |
| Local police | Theft report, incident number | As soon as theft suspected | Police station, online reporting where available |
| National civil aviation or transport regulator | Complaint acknowledgement, regulator investigation file | Varies; file within regulator deadlines | Regulator website complaint form or postal submission |
Write the claim letter with: reference numbers (PIR, ticket, baggage tag), chronological facts (date/time/terminal zone), itemized list of missing/damaged goods with values and receipts, desired resolution (repair, replacement, reimbursement) and a clear deadline for response (suggest 30 calendar days). Sign and date; send via tracked delivery and retain proof.
If you want CCTV reviewed, include PIR/reference number and exact timestamps/location; request preservation of footage in writing and note the statutory retention period if known. If theft is alleged, attach the police report when filing the carrier claim.
Escalate to the national regulator or a small-claims tribunal if the carrier’s final offer is unsatisfactory; include all original paperwork, correspondence logs, photographic evidence and a timeline of actions taken. Maintain a single master folder (physical and digital) with scanned copies and timestamps for every document submitted or received.
FAQ:
Do airports notify passengers when checked luggage is opened for inspection?
Practices vary by country and by the agency that conducts the search. In many places, security screeners or customs officers will leave a slip or tag inside or attached to the bag stating it was examined; in the United States, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents typically place a notice if they open a locked checked bag. If you find no notice but your bag appears tampered with or items are missing or damaged, contact your airline and the screening authority immediately and file a written report. Photograph the condition of the luggage and contents, keep receipts for valuable items, and keep copies of any reports you file to help with claims or further inquiries.
If my carry-on is searched at the security checkpoint or gate, will I be allowed to watch and can I ask for an explanation or a supervisor?
At most checkpoints, officers will conduct an inspection in your presence for routine alarms or visible concerns, and they will explain the reason for further checks. If an item triggers an alarm or looks suspicious, staff commonly ask the owner to open the bag; if you prefer, you can request a supervisor or a private screening area for sensitive items. For safety or investigative reasons, however, officers may perform certain searches without the passenger present, or they may detain items for further laboratory testing or law-enforcement review. If customs or law-enforcement personnel are involved, procedures become stricter and officers may hold you for questioning or remove items; in that case, ask for documentation of the action and the contact details of the agency handling the matter. If you believe staff acted improperly, note names or badge numbers if possible, take timestamps and photos, and submit a formal complaint to the airline and the relevant security or customs authority to pursue compensation or return of property.
