Whether your luggage should be locked depends on whether the shipment is domestic or international. Please review the guidance below carefully, as the rules carry specific consequences for claims and the Double Money-Back Guarantee.
Domestic shipments
Domestic shipments (within the United States): Your bags must be locked. We recommend TSA-approved locks so security can open them without damage. If a bag is not locked, you cannot file a claim for lost or missing contents, and we may ask for proof that it was locked.
International shipments
International shipments: Your bags must be unlocked. If customs cannot open a locked bag, the lock may be broken, and Luggage Forward is not liable for that damage. Locking an international bag voids the Double Money-Back Guarantee. Zip ties or other removable fasteners are fine.
A locked international bag may also be delayed, held, or returned. Luggage Forward cannot be held responsible for delays caused by a bag that customs authorities are unable to access. For full details on the guarantee, see our article: Is My Luggage Guaranteed to Arrive On-Time?
TSA locks are not permitted for international travel, as the TSA is a United States entity only.
Cable ties and security seals
If you would like some indication of whether your bag has been opened during transit, cable ties or tamper-evident seals can be used in place of a lock on international shipments. These allow customs access while providing a visual indicator if the bag has been opened.
Securing valuables
If you are concerned about the security of items inside your bags, we recommend reviewing your Value Protection options at booking and avoiding including high-value items that are listed as Disallowed Goods. For more information, see our articles: What is Value Protection? and Why Are Certain Items Prohibited from Shipment?
Questions about your shipment?
Our Client Experience Team is available at +1 617-482-1100 or support@luggageforward.com and is happy to advise on best practices for securing your luggage before your pickup date.