I spent $300 on a hard-shell bike case to fly my e-bike to Moab. When I picked it up at the oversized baggage claim, the case was cracked and my derailleur hanger was snapped. I went to the airline counter. They pointed to a sign: “We are not liable for damage to bicycles or electronics.” I called my insurance. They asked, “Was it in your care, custody, and control?”
Key Takeaways
- The Airline Liability Cap: Airlines have strict limits on liability for baggage, and they often exclude “fragile items” like electronics and bikes entirely.
- The Battery Ban: You generally cannot fly with an e-bike battery. It exceeds the 100Wh or 160Wh limit for lithium batteries on passenger planes. You have to ship the battery separately via Hazmat ground.
- “Common Carrier” Clauses: Some insurance policies cover your property while it is being shipped, but deductibles still apply.
- Ship vs. Fly: Using a service like BikeFlights (which includes specific insurance) is often safer and easier than checking it on a plane.
The “Why” (Custody Issues)
When you hand your bike to the airline, you lose “custody.”
“We do not cover loss or damage caused by rough handling by a common carrier.”
Many homeowners policies exclude damage that occurs while the item is in the hands of a mover or airline.
The Investigation: Getting Paid for Travel Damage
I looked into how to protect a bike in transit.
1. Airline Claim
- Result: Nightmare. They offer $50 per bag or deny it based on “improper packing.”
2. Standalone Bike Insurance (Velosurance)
- Result: Covered. They cover the bike “worldwide” and in transit.
- Catch: You still need to deal with the battery issue (shipping it separately). If you sneak the battery on the plane and it gets confiscated, insurance does not cover the seizure.
3. BikeFlights / ShipBikes
- Result: Best Option. You buy insurance for the specific shipment value. If UPS/FedEx crushes it, they pay.
Comparison Table
| Method | Insurance Source | Battery Rule | Risk |
| Flying (Checked Bag) | Airline (Limited) | PROHIBITED | High Damage Risk |
| Shipping (Ground) | Carrier Declared Value | Allowed (Hazmat) | Low |
| BikeFlights | Third-Party Policy | Allowed (Hazmat) | Lowest (Door to Door) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Ship the Battery: Do not try to fly with it. Ship it Ground a week early to your hotel.
- Photograph Before Packing: Take a video of the bike in perfect condition inside the open case at the airport/drop-off. This proves the damage happened in transit.
- Use a Standalone Policy: Ensure “Worldwide Coverage” is active. Some policies are USA only unless you add a travel endorsement.
FAQ
Can I rent a battery at my destination?
Yes. This is the smartest move. Fly with the bike (no battery), rent a battery from a local shop in Moab/Whistler.
Does my travel insurance cover the bike?
General travel insurance usually has a per-item limit of $500. It won’t cover a high-end bike.
[IMAGE: Photo of a bike case on an airport luggage carousel with a “Fragile” sticker]