Thanks for the input, I guess I will check it. I have no sentimental attachment to this thing, I am just annoyed at the ridiculous cost of shipping it and since I had a flight anyhow, I figured, why not?

I never expected it would be within carry on size limits (hence suggesting online check-in/boarding pass to avoid scrutiny), I just thought perhaps going in the hold last would afford some protection, but it appears I did not fully think that through.

I am still curious though, what is the correct term for "our bins are too full because nothing ever gets put in the sizers/no one wants to pay for the delay of checked luggage, so after you have boarded we'll need to figure out how to get that to the front of the plane while still boarding people to put it in the hold"??