Latest update:13 November 2025 at 09:28 IST

This bag labeling system is followed in a few countries, including India, but it is not used everywhere.

The X, A or C marks on the bags carry important messages for customs officers. (Image source: X)

Many travelers don’t realize that their bags are checked before they even reach the baggage belt. At Indian airports, this process works a little differently than at most international airports. Once the baggage is unloaded from the plane, it goes through an X-ray machine where customs officials check for anything suspicious. If something catches their eye, they put small chalk marks, such as an X, A, or C, on the bags.

These simple tags actually carry important messages for customs officials. This helps them determine which bags should be opened and checked again in the presence of the passenger. Most travelers never notice or understand these little chalk symbols, yet they play a crucial role in airport security and customs checks.

A similar post about these chalk marks was shared on X (formerly Twitter) and has since gone viral. The post, showing a passenger’s bag marked with a chalk mark, was shared with the caption, “Chalk marks are signals to customs officers. There are two types: Bags marked with A. Bags marked with A are released last on the carousel. Any holder of a bag marked with A is escorted to customs with baggage handlers. Even the officers stay quiet, these guys show off and bother passengers. Use wet wipes or a wet cloth to wipe them down. Carry a small water bottle from the flight, it will be very helpful.”

Causes of chalk marks

If your bag goes through the X-ray machine and something inside looks unusual, airport staff may decide to tag it. Instead of stopping the bag immediately, they often mark it with a chalk symbol so another team can inspect it later. Bags marked with an “X” usually need additional screening by customs officers. Those with the letter “A” are detained and finally released on the luggage belt, and passengers with such bags are usually taken to customs for screening. A “C” mark means the bag must be opened and inspected manually.

What to do if your bag is tagged

If you or someone you know finds a chalk mark on their luggage, don’t panic as long as everything inside is legal. These marks are intended only to assist customs officials in conducting a quick inspection. Trying to remove it is not a good idea, because it may look like an attempt to hide something. The best thing you can do is to remain calm and cooperate with customs officials. Just answer their questions honestly and let them check your bag. Once the verification is completed, you will be free to leave without any hassle.

Practices in different countries

This bag labeling system is followed in a few countries, including India, but it is not used everywhere. Many international airports have their own methods for handling such baggage. Instead of chalk marks, some countries prefer to take selected passengers to a separate customs area for manual screening. Others may use different types of indicators, such as writing on the luggage tag with a permanent marker. Each country follows its own procedures, but the goal remains the same: to ensure that all items entering the country are safe and comply with customs regulations.

Staff

The team of writers at News18.com bring you stories about what’s buzzing on the internet while exploring science, cricket, technology, sex, Bollywood and culture.

The team of writers at News18.com bring you stories about what’s buzzing on the internet while exploring science, cricket, technology, sex, Bollywood and culture.

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