Five ways to keep your luggage safe through the airport {Gadling}

Mar 25th 2010 4:38PM I've shipped luggage a number of times. It is rarely if ever cheaper to ship it via FedEx Express or any type of air service. It can be cheaper to ship via FedEx Ground or UPS but it depends on the distance traveled. The airlines charge the same domestically no matter how long the flight is but shipping charges are based on the distance traveled. Therefore for a shorter trip it can often be cheaper to ship but you have to allow the time for ground shipment and be sure there is someone on the other end to claim it. Will the hotel you are checking into hold your luggage until your arrive? You better be sure. Also shipping doesn't guarantee that your luggage won't be lost. I've still had lugged that I shipped get misdirected and delivered after it was supposed to.