In the event your baggage is lost or damaged, a report must be made to United within 24 hours. United is not liable for normal wear and tear to luggage. If your bag is found and returned to you, passengers still have the option of applying to be reimbursed for interim expenses accrued while the bag was missing. This must be done in writing within 45 days of the claim. United will finalize any baggage claims within 60 days if they are unable to locate your luggage.
United's liability limits for damaged, delayed, or loss baggage varies for domestic and international travel. Domestic travelers are covered for a maximum of $3,300 while international travelers are limited 1,131 Special Drawing Rights per passenger. Excess value insurance can be purchased from the airline prior to travel.
United will not be held liable for the loss of certain valuable and irreplaceable items. This includes money, jewelry, heirlooms, antiques, cameras, and irreplaceable documents. In fact, United prohibits the above mentioned items from being placed in checked baggage.
