Computer monitor as checked baggage?

[Mark in CA]

EEngr>Think about what that monitor must have gone through in its packaging to make it to the store you bought it at. Do you really think one more flight will be any worse?

The only thing I might do is to add one layer of thin cardboard or wrapping material so as to conceal the exact nature and value of the device from dishonest handlers.

That was my thinking, too, as well as the point made by RevMan2.

Update: I transported the monitor Monday in it's original shipping box via United/Lufthansa from SFO to BUD via FRA. Upon arrival at SFO, I had the entire box wrapped in shipping plastic (there's a guy there in the international terminal that does it for $7), and when I checked it, I asked for special handling, and the agent pasted several red "Fragile" stickers on the box. I also had to sign a damage waiver.

The monitor arrived in BUD looking relatively intact (a couple of minor dents), and when I set it up at home, it worked perfectly. No duty; in fact, no customs at all. Point of entry into the EU was FRA, but box was checked through to BUD. Unlike in the U.S., I didn't have to retrieve my baggage in FRA, go through customs and then re-check it before going to my connecting flight. At BUD, I'm now on a "domestic" flight, hence no customs there, either. If you ask me, that looks like a gap, but there it is.