Only one percent of all luggage is lost but, if the initial on-the-spot search by the airline representative fails, the traveler should write down a description of the luggage and hand it in to the Customer Relations Office before leaving the airport.
If the luggage is still missing after several days, the traveler should file a claim form. Airline are liable for damages up to $750. For luggage worth more that $750, "excess valuation protection" is available at rates of 10$ per 100 of coverage. Maximum coverage is $25,000, and some policies exclude particularly valuable or breakable items.
When should travelers file a claim form?
Before leaving the airport
When contacted by the airlines customer relations office
When submitting receipts