Originally Posted by
dvdexter
I have a flight coming up with a 90 minute connection in MSP - from international to domestic. If my incoming flight is late and I risk missing my connection, can I save time by not collecting my checked bag and avoiding customs wait? If so, what will happen to the bag?
You may end up saving time or you may end up having gotten yourself into a situation that takes up a lot more of your time on this entry to the US and even perhaps on future ones.
Some people do forget/"forget" that they had a checked bag when coming into the US from a non-US airport (i.e. speaking of those that don't have customs pre-clearance) and make it to their next flight just fine. However, DHS/CBP also knows that you had a checked bag on the flight arriving into MSP and may find it suspicious that you are trying to leave the customs hall without the bag you checked. If they discover that before you leave the baggage claim hall, it could well result in far more of a delay than just waiting for your bag yourself and re-checking it in for the next flight.
I suggest waiting for your bag and then re-checking it in just beyond customs control. If you happen to miss your connecting flight due to late incoming flight and/or delay in baggage making it to the belt, DL will work with rescheduling your trip.