We have a job coming up in FLA next week and I need to ship my tools. I'm wondering if it's easier, or even allowed to pack them in a box and bring them on the plane with me (check them in). Has anyone done this?

I know the best thing is one of those Pelican Cases, but it's too late and too expensive for that.

I'll bet at least 60% of your tools will not be allowed through by security. They will likely have to go as checked baggage. Watch out for weight... the airlines are really starting to watch the weight of bags.

I'd check with the airline you are using.
I usually fly usair, I can check (not carry on) most anything including guns.
The other issue of course is theft and lost luggage.

How about ups?

Yeah, I said check them in. I figured as much that they won't let it in the cabin. I read that up to 50lbs is free but beyond that, I think UP TO 100lbs, you have to pay for it.

My most recent tool travel has been done on Southwest, 50# is the max. I used the Bosch soft side bag for the power hand tools, the other stuff I put in a box. You will probably have to sign a release of liability. I have also been asked to prove that the contacts on the batteries were covered so that there was no risk of short circuiting.

I have flown with tools and equip at least 20 time in the past five years, worked out just fine eash time. I have found it to be more reliable and less expensive than shipping stuff via UPS for FedEx.

Whereabouts in FLA? It's hotter then Hell here, so I hope you're not having to do any attic work....

Bring a swimsuit and some Pina Colada mix.

Fred

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Um, how HOT Fred?! We're heading to Palm Beach Gardens.

It was about 98 in NORTH Florida 400 miles north of Palm Beach today. They say it is only getting hotter 100 on Sunday. The humidity has been low at least. Fred is half way between me and PB but it is hot all over the state right now. Attic work must be done before 9am or it aint happening! Hope for one of those new isonene (sp?) insulated attics!

Well let's see...I'm in Orlando. Today it was 98F. Humidity wasn't horrible, but yes, attic work is DONE by 10am otherwise your brain becomes nuked.

Be sure to buy LOTS of water if you plan on working outside, or anywhere without air conditioning, because down here, the old saying goes "It's not just the heat, it's the humidity." I'd rather shovel snow 365 days a year then work in this for 150. I don't move because of family. If it weren't for them, I'd be somewhere nice and cool in a heartbeat.

Fred

I travel all the time and the best way is to pack your tools is in a box or two and ship it via UPS or Fed X. next day. this way your tools are insured and will make it a lot easier to travel. just have it sent to your hotel or jobsite.

welcome to the sunshine state.

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About six years ago I lost a really nice Gerber set complete with multi bits that I had for years. I always wore it. I forgot I was wearing it when i checked in and the wouldn't let me keep it. I never saw it again. I'll bet it's a lot tougher now to get anything than remotely resembles a weapon onto an airplane. And for good reason.

Do you really want them going through all your tools. You can not have any locked luggage and they are not going to take the time to put it all back neat. Remember these guys are on a time frame so do the math. Ship it my friend. you won't go wrong. unless you are bringing a small tech box, but remember nothing can be locked because they will break into it. they must have access and thats no way to start a project a thousand miles away.
good luck and have a safe trip.

In '99 or '00 I flew across the Atlantic (both ways?!?) with a Leatherman Super Tool hanging off my belt! No one said boo! Now my wife can't bring her cuticle scissors.

Oh well.