Last Updated on April 12, 2021
A checked suitcase on Delta can be 62 linear inches and can weigh up to 50 lbs.
To calculate linear inches you add the length, width, and height together. So for example a bag that was 32 x 18 x 12 would be 62 linear inches since 32 + 18 + 12 = 62
Delta say that 62 linear inches is the maximum permitted size for a checked bag. This isn’t strictly true. It just means that you will incur excess baggage fees if your suitcase is too large.
And the same happens if your suitcase is too heavy.
If you don’t have one already then I strongly recommend buying a cheap luggage scale. These gadgets are handy and could save you a fortune if you are a heavy packer or have a tendency to buy heavy souvenirs.
Let’s look at how much Delta Airlines luggage costs if you go over the limits.
Delta Overweight Baggage Fees?
If your suitcase is over the 50 lb checked baggage allowance you will need to pay extra.
For checked bags between 51 and 70 lbs the additional fee is $100.
For checked bags between 71 and 100 lbs the additional fee is $200.
If your checked bag weighs over 100 lbs then it will not be permitted at all.
These fees are each way so taking a 51 lb checked bag on a round trip will cost you an extra $200. Taking a 71 lb checked bag on a round trip would cost $400.
Here’s that luggage scale again. Anyone bringing checked luggage should own one of these to make sure they don’t encounter a nasty fee at the airport.
Delta Oversized Baggage Fees?
It’s hard to imagine but Delta baggage fees can be worse.
If your checked bag size is over 62 linear inches then delta will charge you an additional $200. Each way.
If your suitcase was overweight and oversize then Delta would charge you twice.
So a 71 lb checked suitcase that was 1 inch too big would cost an extra $400. Each way.
This luggage scale has a built in tape measure. It’s handy to check the size of your carry-on luggage and your personal item too. Although there is no weight limit for hand luggage items.
If you find that your checked suitcase is too large there isn’t much you can do about it apart from buy a new suitcase.
If after packing you find that your checked bag is too heavy then remove heavy items and pack them in your carry-on luggage or personal item bag.
How Much Do Delta Charge For Checked Baggage?
The standard delta checked bag cost is $30 each way for the 1st checked bag if you are flying main cabin on a domestic flight. A second checked bag will cost $40 each way.
A third checked bag would cost you $150 each way.
And bags 4 – 10 will cost you $200 each.
If you are flying internationally you can usually bring one and sometimes two checked bags for free.
Either way if you exceed the size and weight limits for checked luggage you’ll need to pay an excess baggage fee.
The best way to avoid Delta baggage fees is to learn to pack light and avoiding bringing any checked luggage.
Getting stung by excess baggage fees can leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Even if your bag is just a little overweight Delta will hit you with the charge.
Rachel didn’t weigh her bag before going to the airport and it ended up costing her $130. $30 to check the bag and $100 because it was overweight.
You might not have time at the airport to move things around to get under the weight limit.
The Verdict
The Delta overweight and oversize fees are punitive. The fees really start to add up if you go over the limits.
That’s why you should always weigh your luggage before you go to the airport.