How to Take an LCD TV as Checked Baggage

Checking a liquid-crystal display television onto a commercial flight works just the same as any other checked bag. The package that holds your television must meet certain size and weight requirements or you'll end up incurring oversize baggage fees. And if your TV is especially large, you may not be able to take it with you at all.

Original packaging is your best bet. The box that your TV came in is ergonomically designed for travel, takes up minimal space and provides great protection. And most of these boxes come with a convenient handle. Taking the TV to a professional packaging service is your next best option. Go to your airline's website, jot down the airline's checked baggage limits and bring them with you to the packaging company. They may be able to help you avoid oversize bag charges. Don't tape the box up too tightly. Transportation Security Administration will automatically open your package if they suspect an attempt to conceal something. If the TSA does open your package, they'll tape it back up for you.

Each airline enforces a slightly different checked baggage policy, but most airlines display a size restriction in total inches. Airlines will charge you an oversize baggage fee if the box that your TV is packed in measures more than the size restriction in total inches. To find the total inches of your packed TV, simply lay the box down on a table, get a tape measure and measure the height, width and depth of the box. Add the numbers together to get the total inches of your package. Make sure the TV is packed in the box to get a true measurement. If the total inches of the box measures significantly more than the size restriction, you may want to call your airline to see if you can take it with you at all.

Airlines also enforce a weight limit on checked baggage. Packages that weigh more than the weight limit may be charged an oversize bag fee. To get the weight of your television, pack it into its box and then weigh it on an at-home scale. You can pick up the TV and get on the scale, then subtract your personal weight from the total weight to get the weight of the package. If the package weighs significantly more than the checked baggage limit, call the airline to ask if you are allowed to bring the TV with you on your flight.

Arrive to the airport at least two hours before departure. This will give you ample time to ensure that your TV gets on board. See an airline representative at check-in so they may assist you with the checked bag process. Federal regulations require the airline to compensate you if your checked baggage is lost or damaged, but the airline may require you to sign a liability release for the fragile contents of your package. You may also ask about something called excess valuation, a form of checked bag insurance. Discuss coverage options with the airline representative at check-in.