Originally Posted by
Dino55
Thank you for your post.
I'll definitely ask the check-in agent before the first leg to check through to the final destination. At least ask. Not mention about the 16,5 hour limit. I've prepared a backup plan if the hold baggage won't be checked through to the final destination.
Keep in mind, there's always the possibility of an agent claiming they've done something or that something is possible, but then the system cancels or overrides it. In your particular case, Miami isn't a good place to have your bags riding around on the carousel, as bag theft has been a recurring problem there.* Since you'll have to walk by baggage claim anyway on your way to customs, you might want to make sure your bag(s) didn't get dumped onto the carousel before you leave the airport for your layover.
(*I can't say I've seen any reports of bags stolen at MIA from international arrivals, but it wouldn't surprise me and it wouldn't be hard. Customs is now just a couple agents standing by the door as hundreds of people walk past.)