United MileagePlus (Consolidated) - International Excess Baggage Fees

I know that as 1K member I have the option to check in three bags at up to 70lb/bag on international flights.

A year ago I flew with 500 lbs of "stuff" beyond what would fit into my three 70lb bag limit. I was originally planning to check in ten 50lb bags and pay $200 per piece.

However, my local "small town" airport where I checked in said that because I was 1K I would only need to pay $200 per bag with up to 70lbs in each bag. So, I was able to get all my "stuff" into seven 70lb trunks and ended up paying $1,400 instead of $2,000. Each trunk, BTW, was within the 62" for dimensional measurements.

My question, for future flights, is to know if that rate represents the official UA policy or was simply a local interpretation to give me a break. If, for example, I tried to check in standard-sized ten 70lb. trunks (beyond my allocation of three) at IAD or ORD would I also be charged $200 per bag?

Has anyone had a similar experience?

My question, for future flights, is to know if that rate represents the official UA policy or was simply a local interpretation to give me a break. If, for example, I tried to check in standard-sized ten 70lb. trunks (beyond my allocation of three) at IAD or ORD would I also be charged $200 per bag?

So, to answer my own question it appears that the 70lb/piece weight allowance for 1Ks is good not just for the 3 allowed/free bags, but also for additional excess baggage. For my last trip I ended up checking in 6 footlockers -- each weighing just under 70lbs. I paid $600 for 3 excess pieces.

So, to answer my own question it appears that the 70lb/piece weight allowance for 1Ks is good not just for the 3 allowed/free bags, but also for additional excess baggage. For my last trip I ended up checking in 6 footlockers -- each weighing just under 70lbs. I paid $600 for 3 excess pieces.

Wouldn't it have been cheaper to bring a friend along? I guess not for international flights, but still...