UA did subcontract all Canadian airports, I THUNK? Perhaps that is the problem. "The Friendly Sky's" except the 51st State NORTH. Canada.
Easy answer: Do not check bags, unless to the "village" on flts to BKK or MNL.
UA is outsourcing a lot, so that bag tag means zilch in Canuck town. If UA cared they would have actual UA employees (not contractors) above/below wing operations in Canada. They do not. Love it or leave it.