First, the good news: the vast majority of "lost" suitcases are merely delayed — stuck at a connection — and reappear within 24–48 hours. What matters is what you do in the first 30 minutes.
Step 1: Do Not Leave the Customs Area
Report the loss before leaving the baggage area, at your airline's Lost & Found desk (signposted in the baggage halls of T1 and T3). Filing from outside is far more cumbersome.
Step 2: File the PIR Report
You receive a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with a reference number — your most important document. It lets you track the bag online (WorldTracer) and underpins any later reimbursement. Keep your boarding pass and baggage tag handy.
The PIR is your collateral: no reference number, no reimbursement.
Step 3: Know Your Rights
- For delayed bags, airlines reimburse necessary expenses (toiletries, a change of clothes) — keep receipts.
- Under the Montreal Convention, the airline is liable up to roughly €1,300–€1,900.
- Deadlines: claim delayed baggage in writing within 21 days, damaged baggage within 7 days.
And Your Transfer?
If you travel with FrankfurtRide: no stress. Your driver sees the aircraft has landed and waits while you file the report — the waiting time costs nothing. Most airlines deliver the latecomer bag to your address free of charge. More on airport procedures: Frankfurt Airport guide.
