Originally Posted by saveri

Don't have the answer to all your queries but can help with a couple.
Hotel shuttles drop passengers off at the arrivals level. That too at the third lane from the terminal. You have to cross the lanes enter the terminal and take the elevators up (the escalators typically are non functional). Luggage carts are typically not available unless a departing passenger has left one behind.
Taxis drop passengers off at departures where porters are available.
On the rare occasions I've picked up luggage after a domestic arrival, I've never seen a porter. But that may be because I've never looked for them. But the path to the hotel shuttles is the same except you are now on the correct level.
Not sure what your mobility is but you can get a luggage cart and use that to get to the shuttles or the taxis (the latter picking up passengers in the lane by the terminal).

Originally Posted by kg07

When you arrive to Miami departures, which is upstairs, there is a very large stand of curbside check-in people as soon as you pull into the airport. (on the immediate right, by the priority drop off area). There are usually 10 or so attendants milling about. I think this would be an opportunity to have someone help you with your bags, whether it is for curbside check-in, or to have them escort you inside (for a few bucks). For reference, the first class / priority check in is very close to this area, just through the doors and to the

I’m not sure how where the hotel shuttle van drops you off relative to this area. Perhaps you can ask the hotel front desk team prior to departing ? If you don’t want to risk it, an Uber or taxi you could certainly drop you right at this spot. It’s where I like to get dropped off every time I take an Uber to the airport, which is every other week. 😎

On using curbside for international check-in, I seem to recall having done this in the past, but not 100 % confident.

safe travels!