It’s every traveler’s nightmare: you arrive at your destination, but your luggage doesn’t. Whether it’s a short delay or your suitcase has vanished without a trace, the stress is real. If you’re flying with United Airlines and find yourself in this situation, the good news is, you do have rights, and there’s a clear process for filing a claim and seeking compensation.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand what counts as delayed or lost baggage, how to file a claim with United, what documents you need, and what kind of reimbursement you can expect. You’ll also find timelines, legal references, and practical tips from travel experts and frequent flyers.
What Should You Do Immediately When Your Baggage is Lost or Delayed?
If your bag doesn’t show up at the baggage carousel, don’t leave the airport without reporting it. United Airlines has a Baggage Service Office in most airports near the baggage claim area. File an incident report on the spot , this creates an official record and initiates the search process.
If you’re unable to report it in person, you must file a report online or by phone within 24 hours for domestic flights and within 7 days for international flights.
Always get a File Reference Number (PIR number) when you report. This is your proof of submission and will be necessary for any follow-up or compensation claim.
How Does United Airlines Define Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage?
United Airlines uses standard aviation definitions that align with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Montreal Convention for international flights:
- Delayed Baggage is luggage that doesn’t arrive on your flight but is expected to be found and delivered.
- Lost Baggage is luggage that has not been located within 5 days and is presumed missing.
- Damaged Baggage refers to luggage that arrives torn, broken, or otherwise unusable due to mishandling.
Understanding these categories is crucial. Your eligibility for compensation , and how much you might receive , depends on the classification.
What Is the Time Limit to File a Baggage Claim with United?
Each type of baggage issue has its own filing deadline, depending on whether your flight was domestic or international.
| Baggage Issue | Domestic Flights | International Flights |
| Delayed Baggage | 24 hours | 7 days |
| Lost Baggage | After 5 days | Within 21 days |
| Damaged Baggage | 24 hours | 7 days |
If you miss these windows, United may deny your claim. Save every receipt and document related to your travel and purchases during this period.
How to File a United Baggage Claim Online or by Phone
United offers both online and offline methods to file a claim.
To file a claim online:
- Visit united.com/baggageclaim.
- Log in or continue as a guest.
- Enter your flight and baggage details.
- Upload receipts, boarding passes, baggage claim stubs, and any proof of purchase.
- Submit and record your claim reference number.
To file by phone:
- U.S. and Canada: 1-800-335-2247
- International: Visit United’s website for country-specific numbers
You can also visit a United Baggage Service Office at the airport to file in person.
What Documents Do You Need to Submit a Claim?
To strengthen your claim and reduce delays in processing, prepare the following documents:
- Boarding pass or e-ticket receipt
- Baggage claim tags
- Government-issued photo ID
- Receipts for any items purchased during the delay
- List of contents (for lost baggage)
- Photographs (if the bag or items are damaged)
If you’re claiming for items inside your bag, United may request original receipts or proof of ownership, particularly for high-value or brand-name products.
How Long Does Compensation from United Take?
United Airlines typically responds to baggage claims within 5 to 7 business days. However, the full reimbursement process , especially for lost or damaged items , can take 2 to 4 weeks.
They issue compensation through:
- Electronic bank transfers
- Mailed checks
- MileagePlus miles, if you prefer
Be proactive. Follow up with United’s customer care if you haven’t heard back in two weeks.
What Compensation Can You Expect for Delayed or Lost Bags?
The amount you’re entitled to depends on your route and the nature of your loss.
Compensation limits:
- Domestic flights (U.S.): Up to $3,800 per passenger (as per DOT regulations)
- International flights: Approx. 1,288 SDR (~$1,700 USD), based on the Montreal Convention
You can claim for:
- Essential purchases (toiletries, clothes during delay)
- Lost item value (with itemized list and receipts)
- Damaged baggage (repair costs or replacement value)
For delayed baggage, interim compensation usually covers basic essentials. For lost baggage, United may request detailed itemization, photos, and original proof of value.
What If United Denies Your Baggage Claim?
If your claim is denied, you’re not out of options.
Steps to appeal or escalate:
- Contact United Customer Care with your File Reference Number and additional documents.
- Submit a complaint to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) if you’re flying within or from the U.S.
- For international flights, cite the Montreal Convention and escalate through legal or mediation channels.
- In rare cases, consider small claims court , many travelers win partial or full reimbursements this way.
Keep a record of all communications and documents.
Passenger Rights Under DOT and Montreal Convention
Your passenger rights are protected under federal and international law.
U.S. Domestic Flights:
- Governed by 14 CFR Part 254
- Sets liability limits and requires airlines to reimburse for reasonable losses
International Flights:
- Governed by the Montreal Convention
- Article 22 limits liability to 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
- Article 31 sets filing deadlines for loss or damage
Even without travel insurance, you’re legally entitled to claim within these frameworks.
Pro Tips to Avoid Lost or Delayed Baggage Issues
While you can’t prevent every mishap, a few steps can greatly reduce the risks or ease the recovery process.
- Use a GPS luggage tracker (e.g., Apple AirTag, Tile)
- Label your luggage inside and out with your name, phone number, and email
- Photograph your bag and contents before check-in
- Keep valuables, documents, and medications in your carry-on
- Avoid tight layovers, which increase baggage mishandling rates
These proactive measures can simplify tracking and strengthen your claim if things go wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if United finds my lost bag after I’ve been compensated?
You can choose to keep the compensation or return it and retrieve your bag. United may require you to return the compensation if the bag is returned intact.
Can I claim for sentimental or high-value items like jewelry or electronics?
Airlines don’t cover items deemed “excessive value” unless declared in advance. Travel insurance may provide extra coverage.
What if my delayed bag caused me to miss an event or meeting?
United doesn’t cover consequential damages. However, you might recover costs for essential purchases during the delay.
How do I file a claim through my travel insurance instead?
File your claim with United first. Most insurers require a denial or resolution letter from the airline before approving their own payouts.