Cardboard box: checking-in

[TurboMills]

I have some machine parts packaged in a substantial cardboard box that i'm taking with me to Switzerland tomorrow.

Dimensions are 600x300x400mm and weighs approx 10kg.

Is this okay to check in as normal with free baggage? Or should I put it in a luggage/suitcase type bag just to be sure?

Your help would be much appreciated

[srebbe64]

As long as it's well wrapped it'll be fine. Depending on what class you're flying there is a weight restriction (usually about 20kg for economy), so your other bag will need to weigh less than 10kg.

[TurboMills]

Good man

[sneijder]

Just make sure the suitcase doesn't reek of oil or fuel.

Anything that's been near an engine is a bit of a no no. I've had security bring loads of bags up the the gate and dress passengers down.

[Starfighter]

Use a separate box in possible and do not seal it prior to getting to the airport. Take an invoice for the full value of the parts with you and a drawing / scimatic etc of the parts. On arrival at the departure terminal go to the customs office and show it to them and get the documents stamped up. This is vital if you are bringing parts back in especially from outside the EU.

I had a problem with some parts I took to the US and brought back. On arrice back in the UK the customs guy went mad about this and explained in minute details what we should have done but eventually let us off. He sent us on our way without asking about the carton of 2000 US brand cigarets on top of the trolley!

[TurboMills]

Just thought I'd mention that taking the box on the flight was no problem. But I got screwed at swiss customs for walking through, NOTHING TO DECLARE, with it, resulting in a 300CHF fine, and 280CHF tax bill. I was fairly pissed off at that, but it was my own daft fault!