TSA, stolen tools

[Paddy]

This is the second time I have traveled with tools in a checked bag and they are all missing when I arrive. Both times I have the card TSA puts in the bag to inform me my bags were searched. I always have tools in my bag so it's not every trip, but twice a year.....

I have no problem having my bags searched. safe for me right? But I'm an engineer and some jobs/labs I go to tools are real handy.

So this time I'm off to Prague to test high voltage equipment. I bring a leatherman and an old tape measure. Both gone. I know they were not taken because they are "prohibited"

Last time it was Delta, this time American/British Airlines. When I made a claim at delta they pushed me to TSA, TSA pushed be back, Arg!

Any one else finding missing stuff?

Patrick T

 

[Travelover]

So, you don't believe in "tipping"? :laughing:

 

[czechsonofagun]

Czechs have very bad reputation as far as stealing

 

[Transit]

I have used a small shipping container in the past with hardened locks. Now they are looking to pass the buck.

 

[Paddy]

Czechsonofagun,

I'm back at your old stomping grounds, EGU in Prague. But I don't think the tools were taken by a Czech. I'm betting while in US.

I guess I'll start hiding the tools in a laundry bag!

Patrick T

 

[johnrex62]

If you can, I would suggest shipping via Fedex or a insured ground carrier. There are too many opportunities for the bonded personnel to graze through your belongings and pass the blame along to someone else.

I travel weekly and either carry everything possible as carryon or buy it when I get there. I am through outfitting other people's toolboxes.

 

[Cat_Driver]

They did one of those specials where they video tape these Government thieves going through everyones luggage and stealing everything that they can get their hands on.

When the busted them one guy had so much loot in his garage it was stacked floor to ceiling.

 

[bp fick]

If you can, I would suggest shipping via Fedex or a insured ground carrier. There are too many opportunities for the bonded personnel to graze through your belongings and pass the blame along to someone else.

I travel weekly and either carry everything possible as carryon or buy it when I get there. I am through outfitting other people's toolboxes.

Agreed. I use FedEx or other carrier to ship important things to my destination ahead of my flight. Small expense compared to replacing things. Welcome to the new normal.

 

[Wayne County Hose]

Next time I would put the tools in a ziploc bag with some dirty underwear. Gotta clean your tools, but I would rather have dirty tools than none.

 

[czechsonofagun]

Czechsonofagun,

I'm back at your old stomping grounds, EGU in Prague. But I don't think the tools were taken by a Czech. I'm betting while in US.

I guess I'll start hiding the tools in a laundry bag!

Patrick T

Good for you, my dad worked in Bechovice for 30 years or so - SVUSS, next door to EGU.

If you hide it in laundry bag, they will think you have some bad intensions with it. Is it so critical to have your own tools?