General Cycling Discussion - Bicycle Shipping Cases

I have been looking at getting a case to use for either shipping my bike or taking it on an airplane. I would like know your opinion, experiences or suggestions. I have been looking at the Trico Iron Case and cases from Tri All 3 (http://www.triall3sports.com/) (not sure which model from them?). Any other hard case manufacturers out there? I am looking for protection first. I own both a road/touring bike and mountain bike. I would like to be able to take either depending on the desintation. With any hardcase will you always be charged for flying with a bike or if you have a smaller case might you slip it by?

Thanks,
Patrick

Yo Patrick;
There is a company called "Crate Works" that make a strong chloroplast case of different sizes for different bikes. They also sell them with little wheelies for lugging the thing around an airport. The case can collapse down when not in use to take a fraction of the space.

The airports have this thing about knowing that a case carries a bike costs you pay $$ but if they don't know they won't charge you. I've seen a guy get a bike into two small suitcases and ship it by air at no charge but when they found out on the return trip they charged him $80.00. He complained but to no avail. I've seen golf bags bigger than my bike box get through free, obviously a different standard with air carriers.:rolleyes:

Check with your local bike club or bike shop. Often times they will rent or loan you a case. This is far cheaper than buying one, especially for an infrequent trip with the bike.