Originally Posted by
SDF_Traveler
Your bag will be checked to AZO as others have explained.
Do not follow the signs "Exit to Detroit" like you normally would.
Once you are through customs there is a line where you drop your checked luggage off to be screened and then delivered to your connecting aircraft (as the luggage will already be tagged AZO).
As you walk to the right there is a TSA checkpoint on the international arrivals level. Clear the TSA checkpoint here.
Once you're through, it will lead you to an escalator which will take you upstairs to the departure level and out a door into the A concourse. This door is right next to the main WorldClub (SkyClub) and the Currency Exchange booth. If you have time, you can enter the SkyClub here.
Otherwise, you'll know exactly where you are when you come out the door in the A concourse and the tunnel to the B/C concourse is just across from you.
This was my experience as well. I'd add that the TSA line was short enough that I was able to go back and chug the bottle of Pocari Sweat I picked up in NRT instead of surrendering it, and still clear the whole mess in less than five minutes.
No idea how efficient they are getting your bag to the next plane, as I didn't have any checked luggage. Good luck and happy late Thanksgiving.