I want to take my small airbrush compressor to TTR next month to do some body painting on my wife. I have been told by the US Postal Service that there is no guarantee that if shipped it will make it to TTR due to the ongoing Mexican corruption. I have contacted TSA for assistance regarding putting it into my luggage after dismantling it as much as possible. I am waiting for their response. I would appreciate anyone's thoughts on their experiences shipping things ahead to TTR and the best way to do so if that is a viable option.
Thanks for the advice but prefer to do it myself as I do a lot of airbrushing which is why I am asking for other peoples experiences.
You should be okay with an electric air compressor. I would check it and expect screening to open your bag. A common suggestion is to remove the tank if possible to allow TSA to confirm it's not pressurized. (And of course, liquid paints need to follow liquid rules.) My quick Google results: TSA: Airbrush Make-up Machine From an airline: Electric Air Compressors/Gasoline Powered Compressors: Electric air compressors are allowed as checked baggage if the air tank is verifiably empty. The unit must be transported with the air tank in the open position and the gauge must register no pressure in the tank. Gasoline powered compressors are not allowed.
Yeah.. mailing stuff is a roll of the dice.. I have friends that are still waiting for birthday cards from 2010. You've got customs declarations and the lot to go through on packages so shipping something to Mexico is dicey at best if you have a particular window you want it there. Best to take what you can on the plane with you and be prepared to answer questions at Customs at the airport if they ask. Everything goes through the x-ray. Jamie
Thanks for your feedback. I did hear back from TSA this morning stating the compressor is allowed to be taken in either the luggage or a carry-on as long it is able to be inspected. Appreciate your help.
My sister brought a one gallon compressor on her flight back after Christmas few years ago. She brought it in the box unopened as a carry on. They just ran it though the scanner with everything else. They never even opened it.
Thank you for your response. Since hearing back from TSA and responses from others such as yours it sounds like I'm good to go.