How to Choose the Right Baggage Tubs for Airport Security Screening

Why Baggage Tubs Matter More Than You Think

Most airports focus heavily on X-ray scanners, metal detectors, and automation systems. But here’s the truth most people overlook:

• Baggage tubs are the backbone of the entire airport security screening process.
• If tubs are poorly designed or incompatible, bottlenecks and delays are unavoidable.

This guide will help you choose the right baggage tubs for faster, safer, and more efficient screening.

Understand Your Security Screening Environment First

Before comparing suppliers or prices, assess your actual operating environment.

• Passenger volume per hour
• Domestic vs international traffic
• Manual screening or Automated Tray Return System (ATRS)
• Type of conveyors used (roller, belt, hybrid)
• Space constraints

A baggage tub designed for a small regional airport may fail in a high-traffic terminal.

Choose the Right Size and Load Capacity

• Must hold cabin bags, laptops, backpacks, personal items
• Stable bases to prevent tipping
• Balanced depth for efficient handling

Oversized tubs slow flow. Undersized tubs cause jams. Balance is key.

Material Quality: Durability Is Non-Negotiable

• High-impact, wear-resistant polymers
• Anti-crack and anti-deformation materials
• Easy-to-clean, hygienic surfaces

Cheap tubs fail faster and increase downtime. Long-term durability wins.

Compatibility with Conveyor & ATR Systems

• Roller conveyors
• Belt conveyors
• Automated Tray Return Systems (ATRS)

Poor compatibility causes jams, conveyor damage, and shutdowns.

Stackability and Anti-Jam Design

• Stable stackability
• Anti-nesting features
• Rounded smooth edges

Better design = faster tray return + reduced manual handling.

Passenger Experience and Ergonomics

• Lightweight and easy to lift
• Smooth edges for safety
• Easy placement and retrieval of items

Good tubs lower stress and complaints.

Compliance with Airport Security Standards

• Airport authority requirements
• International aviation standards
• Security screening regulations

Non-compliance leads to delays and costly replacements.

Total Cost of Ownership (Not Just Purchase Price)

• Lifespan
• Maintenance needs
• Downtime risks
• Replacement frequency

Higher quality often means lower long-term cost.

Choose a Supplier Who Understands Airports

• System-level knowledge
• Integration support
• Customization options
• After-sales support

Experienced suppliers ensure smoother airport operations.

How Mexeltec Supports Airport Baggage Tub Solutions

• Compatible with roller and belt conveyors
• Supports ATRS integration
• Durable airport-grade materials
• Designed for better passenger and operator experience

Final Thoughts

• Faster passenger flow
• Fewer disruptions
• Better long-term ROI

If you’re serious about improving airport security efficiency, start with the right baggage tubs.