Yes I saw several people having to take out things out of their bags, I was spared. This was in SEA (South Satellite). I believe LH gate agents just do it half-way, that is they don't check everybody but they do it to a few people to make a point.

See: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic...ir_Travel.html

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/14964444-post38.html

The best strategy I believe is to just show up when the plane starts boarding so you skip the walking gate agent with the scale. I don't usually make them too heavy, but they are always 1-3 pounds overweight, and that might not fly with LH.

I have never seen it done at FRA or any other airline.

But I agree, non-wheeled is the way to go, and I might just get a smaller personal item, maybe a small duffel/backpack. I'll have to do a bit of research.