First time trying to use a United upgrade on Lufthansa. I have received my paper SWUs from UA - thanks to FT advice. I am traveling in D class on LH ticket stock, so I have a qualifying fare.

As I was planning to make an advance trip out to the airport to increase my chances of securing the upgrade, I received conflicting info on LH counter operating hours at DEN. Lufthansa tells me they are open from 11.00 to 17.30. The airport says 08.30 to 17.30. If I go at 08.30 and LH is not open, can I check-in with United and have the upgrade applied?

Anyone who has DEN upgrade experience using UA paper SWUs, your thoughts are appreciated.