Originally Posted by
StayingHomeIsBetter
I have been told 6 hours...
A call to DL would be a more reliable source of information that a FT thread.
A call will do nothing. If there's one thing with DL that's consistent, it's inconsistencies in answers. Also it does nothing if checkin agent refuses.
Six hours is when the system allows you to short check a bag. 12 is when you must short check. 4 hours is when the checking desk opens for a flight(DL agent, not contract). Hubs though are open and staffed by DL checkin agents all day. Thus why you can get away with it at hubs, but varies elsewhere.