Originally Posted by
peijian
So after arriving in JFK, I have to go to the luggage pick up, clear customs, and check it back in? What purpose does "luggage tags" serve? Sorry for the newb questions, this is my first international travel since 2008, just trying to be as prepared as I can.

You will have to ask CBP for that.
To be honest - no purpose at all except you are subject to baggage fee from AA.