Things in the Sky

Unfortunately no details from Ryanair yet, but Middle Seat Terminal does have a good story on them. Many stories said there would be an official announcement today, but no dice so far.

Anyway…this is something that I have been meaning to post about for awhile: United announced its new baggage delivery service, which is done in partnership with Fedex. For flights less than 1,000 miles, the service is $149 each way, and $179 each way for longer flights. So far the service is only available in the 48 contiguous states. A pickup can be scheduled within 10 days of the flight, and the bags arrive the day after pickup.

Is this worthwhile? Well, it can be. United’s fees for the first and second bag certainly make it cheaper. For a shorter flight, the price is $134 for the first bag and $99 for the second (after the fee goes up to $50 next week).

But I do have to cirticize United’s FAQ on this service. For example:

If I purchase Door-to-Door Baggage, will I need to pay any additional fees?

The fee for shipping your baggage is determined by the distance between origination and destination on your flight itinerary. There are no additional fees. Please note that pricing is subject to change without notice.

Just looking at that, this service seems very worthwhile for those who have overweight or oversize luggage. United charges $125 for the former and next week will be charging $175 for the latter. In fact, it could actually be a money saver. But, alas,

What is the maximum weight of a bag I can ship?

The maximum allowable weight for baggage is 50 lbs. per bag. If your bags exceed the weight restrictions you may be assessed additional fees and/or your bags may be refused shipment.

So much for “no additional fees.” United should clarify its FAQ. And to make things more confusing, take a look at the question for size:

What is the maximum size of a bag I can ship?

Baggage must be less than 119 inches in length or 165 inches in length and girth. Length is the longest side of the package. Girth is (2 x width) + (2 x height). If your bags exceed the size restrictions you may be assessed additional fees and/or your bags may be refused shipment.

That question makes it more confusing for travelers as United’s oversize baggage page measures in linear inches.

This is an interesting new service from United, but unfortunately the service has a confusing, and even a misleading FAQ page that can certainly leave some travelers frustrated.