No Bag tags or Transfer Slips?

[Cal Cruiser]

I guess Holland America does not give any bag tags?? So I guess the bag handlers can guess what your room is? I got my Docs to day and no transfer slips either? What do I do when I get off my plane. My T/A called them and they said look for the Holland America sign? I sure hope someone is there to great me? I guess this is something new?

[dchip]

You can print your luggage tags online. They are already filled out with all your info! I don't have transfers but they might be hiding somewhere online too!

Cheers, Denise

[jtl513]

Or if you prefer to not print your own tags, you can get them from the porters at the pier or from the HAL reps in the airport.

[Aunty Pat]

HAL is now using “E-transfers”. The HAL rep in baggage claim will have your name on a manifest, check it off and direct you to the buss.

Aunty Pat


Barefoot Windjammer - Phantom ‘81
K&D German Rhine Line ‘84
NCL - Norway ’85, Pride of America ’05, Southward ’87, Star ’97 & ‘05, Starward ’92, Sun ’02 & Windward ’93
RCC - Song of America ‘89
American Hawaiian - Independence ‘98
HAL - Volendam ’99, Noordam ’06, Oosterdam ’07 & ‘09, Statendam ’02 & ‘08, Prinsendam ’03 & ’06, & Zuiderdam ’04, ’06 & ‘07
Carnival - Spirit ‘05
Celebrity – Summit ‘05
Cruise West - Yorktown Clipper ‘06
Princess - Golden Princess ‘07
A & K - East Queen ‘07
Cunard - QM2 ’08
Pending Cruises:
HAL – Westerdam, September 6, 2009
Oceania – Insignia, June 17, 2010

[serendipity1499]

I guess Holland America does not give any bag tags?? So I guess the bag handlers can guess what your room is? I got my Docs to day and no transfer slips either? What do I do when I get off my plane. My T/A called them and they said look for the Holland America sign? I sure hope someone is there to great me? I guess this is something new?

Here's what I said on the Luggage Tag thread..

I printed out just one luggage tag for a sample..Did not like the plain paper weight & all the folding...

1) Instead I used 90 lb. card stock..
2) Cut out the complete tag & folded the two sides
together
3) punched a hole in it.
4) will use a tie wrap to attach it to our luggage..You can get 90 lb stock at any office supply store..

HAL is trying to keep their heads above water (no pun intended) in these lean times & must cut expenses..

If they can save $1200 to $1800 (that's approx $1.00 per Psgr. for postage) per cruise & keep our cruise prices as they are, I have no problem with printing my own tags..:)

Also understand that many cruise lines are using e-tags..

Have a wonderful cruise..

:) Betty

[lorekauf]

I'm all for HAL saving money and having the e-docs but I wish they would send out the luggage tags. The process you detail is fine if you have plenty of time to do it. I'm out of the house for close to 12 hours a day working and I barely have enough time to cook dinner never mind making my own luggage tags. HAL could easily mail those light weight tags for next to nothing. I know Princess sends them out ahead of time.

[sail7seas]

If you are using HAL transfers, the HAL reps at the airport will have baggage tags. They only require name and cabin number and take but a moment to complete. (S)he is easily found at baggage claim wearing a bright red blazer or vest and carrying a clipboard that has huge HAL on it. They make themselves very identifiable. We never use HAL transfers but have seen the reps very often.

If you are transferring on your own to the dock, the stevedores will have plenty of baggage tags when you arrive. Again, takes just a minute to complete them and attach to your luggage.

We saw them used in June on our Maasdam cruise. We had the style tags we are all accustomed to and used them as we had paper docs but many others opted for e-docs and used the tags at the dock.

Easy!

[dandro]

The previous posters are correct.

The HAL rep was waiting for us at the baggage claim with a sign. She had a clipboard with our names on it, and she had luggage tags available if we needed them.

Your boarding pass will indicate that you have a HAL transfer. I kept our a copy for our scrapbook and it shows on their that we had the HAL transfer from the airport to the ship.

[Roz]

Just an observation.....please don't flame me! :D

What is this recent obsession with luggage tags? :confused: There have been numerous posts over the past few weeks, and people are in an absolute panic. It's in HAL's best interest to get their passengers; bags onboard and to the correct cabin. Relax, your bag will reach its destination.

Roz

[G&G]

Just an observation.....please don't flame me! :D

What is this recent obsession with luggage tags? :confused: There have been numerous posts over the past few weeks, and people are in an absolute panic. It's in HAL's best interest to get their passengers; bags onboard and to the correct cabin. Relax, your bag will reach its destination.

Roz

Obsession??? I don't feel it's a "panic" issue but more a disappointment that a cruise customer has to resort to making a homemade bag tag or waiting until you get to the port to get one. Cost cutting is understandable in this current economy but not furnishing a few bag tags is extreme for a company the size of Carnival Cruise Lines (i.e., HAL!) whose stock is doing well!!!

I suppose as long as their customers are willing to bear the expense and inconvenience of doing things for themselves it will just continue to be one thing after another and their stock will continue to do well!!!

[jtl513]

... but not furnishing a few bag tags is extreme for a company the size of Carnival Cruise Lines (i.e., HAL!) whose stock is doing well!They ARE furnishing as many bag tags as you would like - in the airport or at the pier.

[serendipity1499]

Obsession??? I don't feel it's a "panic" issue but more a disappointment that a cruise customer has to resort to making a homemade bag tag or waiting until you get to the port to get one. Cost cutting is understandable in this current economy but not furnishing a few bag tags is extreme for a company the size of Carnival Cruise Lines (i.e., HAL!) whose stock is doing well!!!

I suppose as long as their customers are willing to bear the expense and inconvenience of doing things for themselves it will just continue to be one thing after another and their stock will continue to do well!!!

I put your last sentence in bold.. As a Carnival Stockholder & frequent HAL cruiser, I must disagree with you..

First of all, Carnival does not dictate policy to HAL..HAL is an autonomous company & HAL made the decision to use e-tags..Understand, several other cruise lines under the Carnival Umbrella, are still mailing the tags for now.. They might change policy in the future...

I've been tracking CCL stock for well over a year, since so many HAL cruisers own it..Posters talked about the perks they get on HAL as shareholders..However, I've always been afraid to take the chance..

In Aug of 2008 CCL stock was over $40 per share..Last Sept it started to decline & hit a low in Nov. of about $15.00 a share..

I finally took the bait in March, purchased 100 shares for $18 & change..It has slowly gone up & down since then...As of yesterday hit $30.35 a share..I'm pleased, but There are many who bought CCL when it was over $40.

Believe that CCL also suspended paying out dividends to their shareholders, when the stock was down...Not sure when they will resume paying dividends...

We first started cruising on HAL in 1998...Our cruise fares for our cruises have not appreciably increased in those 11 years..

We are in a recession & Cruise Lines are fighting for our $$$..They have to cut costs somewhere..I especially want to see HAL survive! If HAL loses $$$ you can be sure Carnival Sharholders will demand that they dump HAL..Many Airlines went under & hope that Cruise Lines will stay afloat..;)Sorry for the pun!

Costs of the stock used for tags as well as printing of these tags have increased..Postage has also increased...

Take one hypothetical ship..Lets say it could save $2.00 per passenger on a 1200 Psgr ship..That's $3600. per 7 day cruise..Multiply that by 52 weeks..HAL will save $62,400 for each 1200 Psgr. ship does 7 day cruises..This small amount might save someones job with HAL..

If this small cost cutting will keep HAL solvent with the costs of cruising where they are, I have no problem making or even purchasing my own baggage tags from Staples..

JMO...Betty

[coolmom]

We got luggage tags and the traditional blue 'purse' for our July 25th cruise on the Zuiderdam. We did book through a travel agent whom we had used before so that's probably why. We still did the online checkin and honestly, I would have had no problem printing them out along with my boarding pass, hotel ressies, ect. Everything is being done online now, it's really the way of the future. JMO, but complaining about it is futile simply because the world isn't going to go back to less reliable, more expensive snail mail.

One note, if you are going to ALaska through the Vancouver airport you need to have luggage tags on before your checkin if you want to use USDirect. I highly recommend this service as we bypassed the long custom lines getting onto the ship and our bags were delivered straight from the airport to our cabin.

[sail7seas]

We got luggage tags and the traditional blue 'purse' for our July 25th cruise on the Zuiderdam. We did bood through a travel agent whom we had used before.

One note, if you are going to ALaska through the Vancouver airport you need to have luggage tags on before your checkin if you want to use USDirect. I highly recommend this service as we bypassed the long custom lines getting onto the ship and our bags were delivered straight from the airport to our cabin.
You got tags and paper docs in the travel wallet because it is before the date HAL will cease issuing them. I think the date is for cruises about mid September. We also got paper docs for our end of August cruise. Those are the last we will see. :(

After all the many cruises we have had with HAL, I will miss my usual routine re: receiving our docs and the stages of 'getting us ready' beginning then but I fully understand.

Many of today's cruisers cannot/will not pay a fare that will enable the cruise companies to continue doing things they way they always did. They are a for profit business and it is a good business decision (though we may not like it) IMO

This is a change I can live with easier than some others might be.
I do wonder how this will work for the person who is used to booking by phone with a HAL rep. If they do not use/have a computer, how will they register on line and get e-docs? There has to be some system in place about which I am uninformed.

Those folks are more inconvienced than any of us who use computers.

[coolmom]

One of the reasons I would have no problem printing out the tags is that it puts ME in control of the situation. I'm not waiting for my TA or the person on HAL's end to get together to make sure they documents are mailed. To be fair, both of them provided excellent service. I got my documents on time. However I do have problems with our local yokel post office and will drive 10 miles further to the 'big town' one when I have something important to mail. Or use UPS. So being able to download and print everything is the greatest thing since sliced bread for me.

[onapea]

I put your last sentence in bold.. As a Carnival Stockholder & frequent HAL cruiser, I must disagree with you..

First of all, Carnival does not dictate policy to HAL..HAL is an autonomous company & HAL made the decision to use e-tags..Understand, several other cruise lines under the Carnival Umbrella, are still mailing the tags for now.. They might change policy in the future...

I've been tracking CCL stock for well over a year, since so many HAL cruisers own it..Posters talked about the perks they get on HAL as shareholders..However, I've always been afraid to take the chance..

In Aug of 2008 CCL stock was over $40 per share..Last Sept it started to decline & hit a low in Nov. of about $15.00 a share..

I finally took the bait in March, purchased 100 shares for $18 & change..It has slowly gone up & down since then...As of yesterday hit $30.35 a share..I'm pleased, but There are many who bought CCL when it was over $40.

Believe that CCL also suspended paying out dividends to their shareholders, when the stock was down...Not sure when they will resume paying dividends...

We first started cruising on HAL in 1998...Our cruise fares for our cruises have not appreciably increased in those 11 years..

We are in a recession & Cruise Lines are fighting for our $$$..They have to cut costs somewhere..I especially want to see HAL survive! If HAL loses $$$ you can be sure Carnival Sharholders will demand that they dump HAL..Many Airlines went under & hope that Cruise Lines will stay afloat..;)Sorry for the pun!

Costs of the stock used for tags as well as printing of these tags have increased..Postage has also increased...

Take one hypothetical ship..Lets say it could save $2.00 per passenger on a 1200 Psgr ship..That's $3600. per 7 day cruise..Multiply that by 52 weeks..HAL will save $62,400 for each 1200 Psgr. ship does 7 day cruises..This small amount might save someones job with HAL..

If this small cost cutting will keep HAL solvent with the costs of cruising where they are, I have no problem making or even purchasing my own baggage tags from Staples..

JMO...Betty

Management messes up and everyone pays the price. Next you will have to clean you stateroom. Think I am joking, try Easy Cruise.

[lorekauf]

Obsession??? I don't feel it's a "panic" issue but more a disappointment that a cruise customer has to resort to making a homemade bag tag or waiting until you get to the port to get one. Cost cutting is understandable in this current economy but not furnishing a few bag tags is extreme for a company the size of Carnival Cruise Lines (i.e., HAL!) whose stock is doing well!!!

I suppose as long as their customers are willing to bear the expense and inconvenience of doing things for themselves it will just continue to be one thing after another and their stock will continue to do well!!!
I'm with you on this one....obsession and panic....yup that's happening:rolleyes:. I'm all for the online documents like I said earlier but making your own luggage tags....please. Some of us like to do things ahead of time and not when we are trying to deal with 2 suitcases...a purse and a carry on at the pier. If HAL is going to go down because of giving us luggage tags they have a lot more problems then this. Again....one more case of HAL never doing anything wrong in the eyes of some posters. If it's something they want...well that is different.....

[bakerintn]

we have to print and fold our own luggage tags??

What's next....

Pumping our own gasoline?
Cleaning our own windshield?
Standing in line to make our own salad?
Having to pay the bank for our checks?
Having to ask a waiter for a glass of water?

What is this world coming to??

[G&G]

we have to print and fold our own luggage tags??

What's next....

Pumping our own gasoline?
Cleaning our own windshield?
Standing in line to make our own salad?
Having to pay the bank for our checks?
Having to ask a waiter for a glass of water?

What is this world coming to??

Got the point ... aaah for the "good old days!" Vacationing is a little different than "pumping our own gasoline" which is a necessity. The all-inclusive resorts are looking better all the time!

[G&G]

I'm with you on this one....obsession and panic....yup that's happening:rolleyes:. I'm all for the online documents like I said earlier but making your own luggage tags....please. Some of us like to do things ahead of time and not when we are trying to deal with 2 suitcases...a purse and a carry on at the pier. If HAL is going to go down because of giving us luggage tags they have a lot more problems then this. Again....one more case of HAL never doing anything wrong in the eyes of some posters. If it's something they want...well that is different.....

THANK YOU! I thought I was the only cruiser upset with this. I am a HAL fan (25 HAL cruises) and am willing to go along with most of the changes but having to make your own bag tags is TOO MUCH. Surely there are other areas where they could "cut back" ... tiles, for instance. I have so many that I give them to other cruisers on the ship!

[lorekauf]

THANK YOU! I thought I was the only cruiser upset with this. I am a HAL fan (25 HAL cruises) and am willing to go along with most of the changes but having to make your own bag tags is TOO MUCH. Surely there are other areas where they could "cut back" ... tiles, for instance. I have so many that I give them to other cruisers on the ship!
You and I are so on the same page with those tiles! I used to take then home....then I would throw them out. Now I leave them on the ship or give them to others. Get rid of the tiles please.

[fishbabe]

We seem to be discussing this issue on two different threads ("Luggage Tags" and "No Bag Tags or Transfer Slips").

Could one of the "hosts" please merge these two threads?

[sail7seas]

You and I are so on the same page with those tiles! I used to take then home....then I would throw them out. Now I leave them on the ship or give them to others. Get rid of the tiles please.


Sorry you don't like the tiles but we love them.
We have been collecting them for years and treasure them.
If you don't want them, give them away or tell your steward to not leave you one but don't deny the rest of us getting them.
I almost have enough for work I want to do with them in my
kitchen. We have hundreds and want more. :D

[lorekauf]

Sorry you don't like the tiles but we love them.
We have been collecting them for years and treasure them.
If you don't want them, give them away or tell your steward to not leave you one but don't deny the rest of us getting them.
I almost have enough for work I want to do with them in my
kitchen. We have hundreds and want more. :D
Sail.....you have made my point. People on this thread are saying...big deal....get you luggage tags at the pier....have an all day make your own luggage tag party:D....lets save HAL money. I'm asking for a couple of paper luggage tags and posters are saying it's saving HAL so much. How much is it saving?.....it's such a red herring. If people enjoy those tiles...so be it....but then don't give me a such a hassle deal about getting luggage tags ahead of time.

[G&G]

I put your last sentence in bold.. As a Carnival Stockholder & frequent HAL cruiser, I must disagree with you..

First of all, Carnival does not dictate policy to HAL..HAL is an autonomous company & HAL made the decision to use e-tags..Understand, several other cruise lines under the Carnival Umbrella, are still mailing the tags for now.. They might change policy in the future...

I've been tracking CCL stock for well over a year, since so many HAL cruisers own it..Posters talked about the perks they get on HAL as shareholders..However, I've always been afraid to take the chance..

In Aug of 2008 CCL stock was over $40 per share..Last Sept it started to decline & hit a low in Nov. of about $15.00 a share..

I finally took the bait in March, purchased 100 shares for $18 & change..It has slowly gone up & down since then...As of yesterday hit $30.35 a share..I'm pleased, but There are many who bought CCL when it was over $40.

Believe that CCL also suspended paying out dividends to their shareholders, when the stock was down...Not sure when they will resume paying dividends...

We first started cruising on HAL in 1998...Our cruise fares for our cruises have not appreciably increased in those 11 years..

We are in a recession & Cruise Lines are fighting for our $$$..They have to cut costs somewhere..I especially want to see HAL survive! If HAL loses $$$ you can be sure Carnival Sharholders will demand that they dump HAL..Many Airlines went under & hope that Cruise Lines will stay afloat..;)Sorry for the pun!

Costs of the stock used for tags as well as printing of these tags have increased..Postage has also increased...

Take one hypothetical ship..Lets say it could save $2.00 per passenger on a 1200 Psgr ship..That's $3600. per 7 day cruise..Multiply that by 52 weeks..HAL will save $62,400 for each 1200 Psgr. ship does 7 day cruises..This small amount might save someones job with HAL..

If this small cost cutting will keep HAL solvent with the costs of cruising where they are, I have no problem making or even purchasing my own baggage tags from Staples..

JMO...Betty

Good post, Betty. I hope the CCL stock continues to go up for you. I was with a company for 16 years and when we were bought out by another company they promised we would maintain our autonomy. What a joke! It didn't happen. No matter what they say, you can be sure Mickey Arison (CCL) is still calling the shots.

With regard to the bag tags, if they are still making them available they are still incurring the paper cost just not the minimal cost of mailing! I'm very disappointed even though (I'm surprised) most posters seem perfectly willing to make their own at their expense and inconvenience!

[G&G]

Sorry you don't like the tiles but we love them.
We have been collecting them for years and treasure them.
If you don't want them, give them away or tell your steward to not leave you one but don't deny the rest of us getting them.
I almost have enough for work I want to do with them in my
kitchen. We have hundreds and want more. :D

Yes, we liked the first 50+, too. But as I said in my post, I give them to other cruisers who don't have as many as we do. The point is: I'm sure the tiles are much more expensive than the small amount of cost to send the bag tags regular U.S. MAIL!!! Maybe we'll be on the same cruise one of these days and you can have our tiles to finish your kitchen.

[catl331]

Surely there are other areas where they could "cut back" ... tiles, for instance. I have so many that I give them to other cruisers on the ship!I happen to like the tiles. No one forces you to take them, and the more that are declined by those of you who don't want any more, the less HAL has to have made for the rest of us. Similarly, we wouldn't miss getting the canvas tote bags, but I'm sure there are many that want them.

DON'T take away the tiles, HAL!

[pipedreams62]

http://pipedreams62.eaph2.com/share/afunstufdeuce/atownhalleee.jpg

[G&G]

I happen to like the tiles. No one forces you to take them, and the more that are declined by those of you who don't want any more, the less HAL has to have made for the rest of us. Similarly, we wouldn't miss getting the canvas tote bags, but I'm sure there are many that want them.

DON'T take away the tiles, HAL!

No one said the tiles aren't nice. The point is: if HAL is trying to "cut back" they logically should start with the more expensive items. I hadn't dare included the tote bags in my post because I knew what a response THAT would get (like the tiles!) Besides, if they start with the cruiser making their own bag tags do you think tiles and totes are far behind??? Maybe we could make our own??? LOL

[G&G]

http://pipedreams62.eaph2.com/share/afunstufdeuce/atownhalleee.jpg
TOO FUNNY! And they thought the HealthCare meetings were bad!!!

[dutch46]

No one said the tiles aren't nice. The point is: if HAL is trying to "cut back" they logically should start with the more expensive items. I hadn't dare included the tote bags in my post because I knew what a response THAT would get (like the tiles!) Besides, if they start with the cruiser making their own bag tags do you think tiles and totes are far behind??? Maybe we could make our own??? LOL
I have heard that making the tiles and bags will be the next arts and crafts project on the cruises. They are buying kilns and professional quality sewing machines for the projects.

[Jana White]

You all make me laugh, it's a luggage tag. I do not understand the complaint. You can download them or wait till you get to the port. The airlines do not send out luggage tags. Some of you sound like it will ruin your cruise.

[pipedreams62]

I have heard that making the tiles and bags will be the next arts and crafts project on the cruises. They are buying kilns and professional quality sewing machines for the projects.


http://www.houseofsweden.us/images/2007hosCrafts800.jpg

[Cal Cruiser]

Why do they put in a cruise book? It must weigh five times more than the bag tags?
I do not know who takes a sharpie to the dock to fill out their bag tags? It is just to much trouble when trying to check in to get on the ship. I feel that they should leave out the cruise book and give us back the bag tags!!!

[lorekauf]

You all make me laugh, it's a luggage tag. I do not understand the complaint. You can download them or wait till you get to the port. The airlines do not send out luggage tags. Some of you sound like it will ruin your cruise.
I don't see anyone saying it will ruin their cruise. Could you please quote that person....I seem to have missed that one:rolleyes:. Yeah....print them off the website.....flimsy paper.....that will hold on to the bags a long time.

[serendipity1499]

We seem to be discussing this issue on two different threads ("Luggage Tags" and "No Bag Tags or Transfer Slips").

Could one of the "hosts" please merge these two threads?

Fishbabe...Hosts normally do not have the time to read every thread & post unless someone logs a complaint about a post, or if there is a thread which particularly interests them..Therefore, they may not get to see your post...

To ask that the threads become merged you should send an e-mail to one of the Hosts:

Try either Walt or Joe..

hostwalt@cruisecritic.com (hostwalt@cruisecritic.com) or hostjoe@cruisecritic.com (hostandy@cruisecritic.com)

I agree with you, perhaps this also should become a sticky for a couple of months..

Betty

[serendipity1499]

Good post, Betty. I hope the CCL stock continues to go up for you. I was with a company for 16 years and when we were bought out by another company they promised we would maintain our autonomy. What a joke! It didn't happen. No matter what they say, you can be sure Mickey Arison (CCL) is still calling the shots.

With regard to the bag tags, if they are still making them available they are still incurring the paper cost just not the minimal cost of mailing! I'm very disappointed even though (I'm surprised) most posters seem perfectly willing to make their own at their expense and inconvenience!

Sorry still disagree..What so many fail to realize is that HAL is not a new acquisition..Carnival acquired Holland on Jan. 17 1989..

HAL-Westtours has a CEO, Pres, & other Officers which dictate policies..

Check out the Carnival Corporation's History & Hal's history...

Carnival Corp History: http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/Carnival-Corporation-Company-History.html (http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/Carnival-Corporation-Company-History.html)


Hal History: http://book.hollandamerica.com/about/history.do?date=1800 (http://book.hollandamerica.com/about/history.do?date=1800)

Since 1989 HAL has been & still is an autonomous entity..

Betty

[jtl513]

I do not know who takes a sharpie to the dock to fill out their bag tags? It is just to much trouble when trying to check in to get on the ship. I feel that they should leave out the cruise book and give us back the bag tags!!!No one has to take a sharpie. The porters will have markers and bag tags, and it will take them a couple of seconds per bag to fill them out and put them on for those of you who insist it's too much trouble to do them at home.

BTW, you won't get the "cruise book" any more either for cruises leaving after Sept 25.

Yeah....print them off the website.....flimsy paper.....that will hold on to the bags a long time.By the time you fold them they're three ply. If you're worried, back the page with a blank sheet before folding and they'll be six ply. And just to be safe you can put two or three of them on each bag. :rolleyes:

[serendipity1499]

BTW...I mentioned that HAL had a CEO...My error..

Stein Kruse is Pres. & COO of HAL & is also on the Board of Directors of Carnival Corp..

Ok her's a Proposition: If you want me to make your baggage tags, I'll be glad to make them up mail them out to you..Let's see, what would be a reasonable price...;)

8 for $5.00..;) ;) (Hey that's a good price folks)
Delivery Time: two weeks unless I'm prepping for/or on a Cruise, then delivery time will be 2 months baring any breakdowns...:) Prices are subject to increase at any time, depending on you attitude...Complainers will be charged $10.00 extra...Why not? That's on a notice posted in my Dr's. office...:)

Cheers...Betty

P.S. (Only kidding)...;)

[fishbabe]

I have heard that making the tiles and bags will be the next arts and crafts project on the cruises. They are buying kilns and professional quality sewing machines for the projects.

Now I'm REALLY waiting for the photo pipedreams62 will find for this one ;)

[dutch46]

I don't see anyone saying it will ruin their cruise. Could you please quote that person....I seem to have missed that one:rolleyes:. Yeah....print them off the website.....flimsy paper.....that will hold on to the bags a long time.
They don't need to hold a long time. only until you get on the ship. I've thought about printing them and laminating them but that may be a bit excessive.

[dutch46]

http://www.houseofsweden.us/images/2007hosCrafts800.jpg

I've finally earned a picture from pipedreams. lol. Thanks.

[Jana White]

I don't see anyone saying it will ruin their cruise. Could you please quote that person....I seem to have missed that one:rolleyes:. Yeah....print them off the website.....flimsy paper.....that will hold on to the bags a long time.

I did not say it will ruin your cruise, I said the way people are whinning about this, it sounds like it could end up ruining your cruise. It is a luggage tag. It just sounds funny to me to get worked up about it.

[G&G]

I did not say it will ruin your cruise, I said the way people are whinning about this, it sounds like it could end up ruining your cruise. It is a luggage tag. It just sounds funny to me to get worked up about it.

Like everything else, if no one voices their displeasure then they deserve what they get. I'm sure this only the beginning! Get out the kiln and sewing machine!!! I'd also like a little cheese with my "whine" LOL

[jtl513]

Like everything else, if no one voices their displeasure then they deserve what they get.I don't have any displeasure over printing my own tags. I was just going to make some plain things of my own until they came up with the new option. :cool:

[G&G]

Sorry still disagree..What so many fail to realize is that HAL is not a new acquisition..Carnival acquired Holland on Jan. 17 1989..

HAL-Westtours has a CEO, Pres, & other Officers which dictate policies..

Check out the Carnival Corporation's History & Hal's history...

Carnival Corp History: http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/Carnival-Corporation-Company-History.html (http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/Carnival-Corporation-Company-History.html)


Hal History: http://book.hollandamerica.com/about/history.do?date=1800 (http://book.hollandamerica.com/about/history.do?date=1800)

Since 1989 HAL has been & still is an autonomous entity..

Betty

That's good to know. As an autonomous entity maybe they will see how some of their customers are disenchanted with the policy of having to make their own luggage tags! I was told by the Mariner Society that they have had many complaints regarding this issue and suggested that everyone dissatisfied should write to Stein Kruse, President of HAL in the Seattle, WA office. I for one will do so. Thanks for sharing your research.

[Jana White]

Like everything else, if no one voices their displeasure then they deserve what they get. I'm sure this only the beginning! Get out the kiln and sewing machine!!! I'd also like a little cheese with my "whine" LOL

I do agree with you here, it is ONLY the beginning! :) Your cheese is ready.

[G&G]

BTW...I mentioned that HAL had a CEO...My error..

Stein Kruse is Pres. & COO of HAL & is also on the Board of Directors of Carnival Corp..

Ok her's a Proposition: If you want me to make your baggage tags, I'll be glad to make them up mail them out to you..Let's see, what would be a reasonable price...;)

8 for $5.00..;) ;) (Hey that's a good price folks)
Delivery Time: two weeks unless I'm prepping for/or on a Cruise, then delivery time will be 2 months baring any breakdowns...:) Prices are subject to increase at any time, depending on you attitude...Complainers will be charged $10.00 extra...Why not? That's on a notice posted in my Dr's. office...:)

Cheers...Betty

P.S. (Only kidding)...;)

Gosh, Betty, if you have the time and inclination to do "all that" maybe you should send a resume to HAL and they could pay you to help. LOL

[G&G]

I do agree with you here, it is ONLY the beginning! :) Your cheese is ready.

Thanks, Jana. That's really quick service. :D

[G&G]

I don't have any displeasure over printing my own tags. I was just going to make some plain things of my own until they came up with the new option. :cool:

A new option ... surely you jest. Once it starts there's no stopping it and, believe me, this will only be the beginning if everyone just goes along with it. They must be thrilled that so many don't mind the extra expense and inconvenience!!!

[peaches from georgia]

Actually no one has to make their own luggage tags. The porters have them and it takes about 6 seconds for them to write name and cabin # on them and attach to your bags. Or print them off your computer. If one insists on stewing about it and making their own at home instead of the computer printout, just take a piece of paper, fold it, put name and cabin # on it with a marker and wrap it in clear packing tape, the Scotch kind on a roll you put on pkgs you are mailing. Put a hole in it. That takes about a minute and a half to do. Good grief. Talk about stressing out! :eek:

[sail7seas]

Between this and the other luggage tags thread, it has been pointed out repeatedly the stevedores on the dock have tags. I have posted a number of times that on our June Maasdam cruise sailing from Black Falcon in Boston, the new tags were in use for those who arrived without baggage tags.

It took an average of ten seconds to write name and cabin number on the tag and attach to the suitcase. They are a different style than those we are accustomed to and it is NO BIG DEAL to get them at the dock and attach to your suitcases.

Don't stress over this. You will have your luggage identified with little to no effort on your part.

[/B][/B]

[G&G]

I don't see anyone saying it will ruin their cruise. Could you please quote that person....I seem to have missed that one:rolleyes:. Yeah....print them off the website.....flimsy paper.....that will hold on to the bags a long time.

Hey, Calgary, looks like it's just you and me dissatified regarding the luggage tag issue and I GIVE UP!!! Frankly, I'm exhausted trying to get through to these people who seem to be perfectly happy going to the expense and trouble of making their own luggage tags. AMAZING. Sure HAL will be delighted, but watch out
when they stop the dearly beloved tiles and tote bags!!!It will only be a matter of time! SIGNING OFF.

[Krazy Kruizers]

I have already printed out luggage tags -- took only a couple of minutes to put them into a plastic cover -- pucnh holes -- will attach them when we are ready to leave hotel.

This way I am saving time for the porters to look at their manifest to confirm our cabin number -- write the cabin number and our last name on the tags.

If some of us don't do this -- at times there could be long lines at the luggage end.

HELP OUT THE PORTERS -- do your luggage tags ahead.

[suse]

I think it is supercalifragilistic that you can redo your kitchen with HAL tiles! How good is this. I know this is another shallow posty from me but I am so tickled pink about that idea about HAL tiles in your kitchen. Why stop there? How about the lav and say, family room and then we can move on to the LR. Let me know how it works out.
love,
Susie
What do they look like, by the way. I never got one. Are they great?

[world~citizen]

...Many of today's cruisers cannot/will not pay a fare that will enable the cruise companies to continue doing things they way they always did. They are a for profit business and it is a good business decision (though we may not like it) IMO

If we don't like it...can it be a good business decision?

Sail, you love HAL (as do most on this board) and you have said it about 27,000 times. You are unapologetic about it and that is only proper. You are as enthusiastic about HAL as you are sincere. Good on you!

But jeeze, do you really think its better to not send out bag tags than it is to send them? I don't get it.

You've said it yourself, lots of pax book by phone to which I would add many simply can't use a computer. These are for the most part HALs most experienced and loyal passengers who are used to doing things in a certain way who I can see might get flustered trying to deal with the bag tag thing - especially in the more disorganized boarding processes. There are plenty of those.

HAL may be looking to save a dollar or two. But those bags protect thousands of dollars worth of our property. Why, some peoples suitcases alone can cost over $1000. Then add formal wear etc and, well, you know what I mean. I like the idea of a proper bag tag.

Good business decision? I'm not so sure. Seems cavalier to me.

I like HAL too btw, but like I say - Jeeze.

Smooth sailing to you...

[lorekauf]

Hey, Calgary, looks like it's just you and me dissatified regarding the luggage tag issue and I GIVE UP!!! Frankly, I'm exhausted trying to get through to these people who seem to be perfectly happy going to the expense and trouble of making their own luggage tags. AMAZING. Sure HAL will be delighted, but watch out
when they stop the dearly beloved tiles and tote bags!!!It will only be a matter of time! SIGNING OFF.
Yeah....I'm so done with this. Just as long as people have tiles and totes all it right with the world. Wonder how long until those things disappear...then....that will be a big deal. Like you stay this is just the beginning.

[G&G]

Actually no one has to make their own luggage tags. The porters have them and it takes about 6 seconds for them to write name and cabin # on them and attach to your bags. Or print them off your computer. If one insists on stewing about it and making their own at home instead of the computer printout, just take a piece of paper, fold it, put name and cabin # on it with a marker and wrap it in clear packing tape, the Scotch kind on a roll you put on pkgs you are mailing. Put a hole in it. That takes about a minute and a half to do. Good grief. Talk about stressing out! :eek:

Okey Dokey!!! Good Luck with the Porters who only have their hands out for tips for your luggage at the frantic arrival to the Port!!! It's moot how long it takes ... it shouldn't be necessary and it's NOT STEWING OR STRESSING OUT... it's making a legitimate point, but I guess that just isn't getting through!!! Talk about being led down the garden path! :D

[G&G]

Yeah....I'm so done with this. Just as long as people have tiles and totes all it right with the world. Wonder how long until those things disappear...then....that will be a big deal. Like you stay this is just the beginning.

I must say I did make one more post to PeachesFromGeorgia who was adamant about us STEWING AND STRESSING OUT regarding the tags, but I promise this is it for ME! UGH they get what they deserve! :D

[world~citizen]

Okey Dokey!!! Good Luck with the Porters who only have their hands out for tips for your luggage at the frantic arrival to the Port!!! It's moot how long it takes ... it shouldn't be necessary and it's NOT STEWING OR STRESSING OUT... it's making a legitimate point, but I guess that just isn't getting through!!! Talk about being led down the garden path! :D

The people that might experience the most trouble would be a demographic that HAL is very popular with - or so it seems to me.

Smooth sailing to you...

[32dwemce]

I guess Holland America does not give any bag tags?? So I guess the bag handlers can guess what your room is? I got my Docs to day and no transfer slips either? What do I do when I get off my plane. My T/A called them and they said look for the Holland America sign? I sure hope someone is there to great me? I guess this is something new?
I received HAL bag tags with my documents, no transfers though, I guess I am not entitled to them as I arrive 2 days pre-cruise.

[peaches from georgia]

I must say I did make one more post to PeachesFromGeorgia who was adamant about us STEWING AND STRESSING OUT regarding the tags, but I promise this is it for ME! UGH they get what they deserve! :D
My sincere apologizes if I offended, but 2 full pages and over 60 posts with more to come is pretty good evidence that people are maybe over-reacting just a little to having to get their bag tags at the pier at no expense and in little time? If this is such a major deal I hate to think what a real inconvenience would be like. And I am not a HAL apologist, believe me. We have cruised a great deal on HAL and other lines, but tiiles, totes, and bag tags are way at the bottom of things making up an enjoyable vacation.

[suse]

What I am learning from all of this is that some of you can tile your whole kitchen from those pesky HAL tiles! Wow. What a savings. No need to import from Italy. Just grab them from your cruise. It does not get any better than this. Best wishes.
What would your kitchen look like, tho? Kind of crazy? Let me know. I'd like to follow up on this in case I want to be a kitchen designer. :)

[HeatherInFlorida]

Does everyone realize that within just the past few days there are not 1, not 2, but 3 luggage tag threads? And many of the same posters on each.

Is this not really getting a little nuts here? I've gotten my tags at the pier twice now with no problems whatsoever ... smooth as silk. One less thing to worry about. But if you feel more secure printing them out, then print them out by all means. But in neither case should anyone feel stressed out over such a minute issue. Please.

Seriously, if this is the most stress you get this year count yourself lucky. Be glad you can cruise and have tags to worry about.

[32dwemce]

What I am learning from all of this is that some of you can tile your whole kitchen from those pesky HAL tiles! Wow. What a savings. No need to import from Italy. Just grab them from your cruise. It does not get any better than this. Best wishes.
What would your kitchen look like, tho? Kind of crazy? Let me know. I'd like to follow up on this in case I want to be a kitchen designer. :)


For the novice cruiser what exactly are these tiles and tote bags?

[fun_seeker]

Did anyone consider just printing out a stick-on label with your name and cabin number on it and fixing/stapling/taping it to the bag tag at the pier?

Wow, talk about a tempest in a tea pot. No bag tags and this is the first step on the slippery slope that ends with us cleaning our own cabins? :p

[sail7seas]

If we don't like it...can it be a good business decision?

Sail, you love HAL (as do most on this board) and you have said it about 27,000 times. You are unapologetic about it and that is only proper. You are as enthusiastic about HAL as you are sincere. Good on you!

But jeeze, do you really think its better to not send out bag tags than it is to send them? I don't get it.

You've said it yourself, lots of pax book by phone to which I would add many simply can't use a computer. These are for the most part HALs most experienced and loyal passengers who are used to doing things in a certain way who I can see might get flustered trying to deal with the bag tag thing - especially in the more disorganized boarding processes. There are plenty of those.

HAL may be looking to save a dollar or two. But those bags protect thousands of dollars worth of our property. Why, some peoples suitcases alone can cost over $1000. Then add formal wear etc and, well, you know what I mean. I like the idea of a proper bag tag.

Good business decision? I'm not so sure. Seems cavalier to me.

I like HAL too btw, but like I say - Jeeze.

Smooth sailing to you...


[B] With all due respect, the decision to do as other companies in the industry are doing simply does not bother me the way it is bothering others. Of course, just because one does it does not mean others should but I saw it in action in June at Maasdam and it is not the big deal some want to make of it.

I understand their distress about it and honor it but do not share it.

And yes,,,,,,,, I really, really, really do love our HAL cruises. :) And am totally unapologetic about thinking so highly of HAL's crews and personnel.

JMHO...... :)

[lorekauf]

Does everyone realize that within just the past few days there are not 1, not 2, but 3 luggage tag threads? And many of the same posters on each.

Is this not really getting a little nuts here? I've gotten my tags at the pier twice now with no problems whatsoever ... smooth as silk. One less thing to worry about. But if you feel more secure printing them out, then print them out by all means. But in neither case should anyone feel stressed out over such a minute issue. Please.

Seriously, if this is the most stress you get this year count yourself lucky. Be glad you can cruise and have tags to worry about.
Heather, normally I agree with your point of view but theis time I'm pretty offended by this post. First, like I always say if you are not interested then don't read the thread. It is not mandatory! Second, is this the end of the world....of course not. I'm not "stressed out" about these tags. It's just one more hassle I could do without. My day is filled with how am I going to get everything done I need to in a day...and I just can't keep up with it. Again....I'm out of the house 12 hours a day.......doesn't leave much time for anything else. I'm also trying to hold on to my job through this recession.....not sitting on my money pile at home wondering what to do all day with all my time. So.....I do have much more stress then luggage tags to worry about and it offends me for you to make such a comment.

[jcrandle]

I often book guarantees and by the time I get my docs, the cabin number has not been assigned. I have never had a problem in 20+ cruises arriving without baggage tags (and several times my assigned cabin number). The stevedores have either filled out the tags for me (takes 20 seconds) or looked up my cabin assignment (takes about 1 minute) and attached the tags.

As a suggestion, I always take a supply of those name and address stickers that I get from my insurance agent, and others, and slap one on each baggage tag as as insurance. I also liberally apply them to my laptop, camera, carry on, and anything else that I would like to have returned.

[Jana White]

Heather, normally I agree with your point of view but theis time I'm pretty offended by this post. First, like I always say if you are not interested then don't read the thread. It is not mandatory! Second, is this the end of the world....of course not. I'm not "stressed out" about these tags. It's just one more hassle I could do without. My day is filled with how am I going to get everything done I need to in a day...and I just can't keep up with it. Again....I'm out of the house 12 hours a day.......doesn't leave much time for anything else. I'm also trying to hold on to my job through this recession.....not sitting on my money pile at home wondering what to do all day with all my time. So.....I do have much more stress then luggage tags to worry about and it offends me for you to make such a comment.

I don't think that Heather's opinion is meant to be offensive at all. I am sorry lorekauf if you took it that way. Many of us work hard and time is precious, but we are talking about a luggage tag here and I agree with Heather, many of the posters to this thread are sounding like this luggage tag thing is the straw the broke the camels back. Just waiting for pipedreams62 to post behind that. :)

[jtl513]

Hey, Calgary, looks like it's just you and me dissatified regarding the luggage tag issue and I GIVE UP!!! Frankly, I'm exhausted trying to get through to these people who seem to be perfectly happy going to the expense and trouble of making their own luggage tags.And clearly we're not getting through to you that you don't have to make your own tags.

I received HAL bag tags with my documents, no transfers though, I guess I am not entitled to them as I arrive 2 days pre-cruise.You don't get transfers unless you pay for them.

What do they look like, by the way. I never got one. Are they great?CLICK HERE (http://www.hollandamerica.com/marinerSociety/Main.action) and choose the Tiles link on the left side.

[world~citizen]

...And yes,,,,,,,, I really, really, really do love our HAL cruises. :) And am totally unapologetic about thinking so highly of HAL's crews and personnel.

JMHO...... :)

Indeed, you are as a refreshing oasis of consistency in the parched, sterile marketplace of ideas. More, we all appreciate that your admiration for HAL extends well beyond its crew and personnel. And why not? This is a HAL board after all.

That said, HAL ticket packages were really over the top. Sometimes they would prepare a full set for each passenger...and send them by FEDEX courier. That was expensive and it was overkill.

What is happening now takes us in the opposite direction - not even bag tags.

How about a middle of the road "Goldilox" solution. Drop the fake leather case and superfluous literature and send out the ticket coupons and baggage tags by 3 -day USMail?

Wouldn't that solution be "Just Right"?:)

It would be IMHO.

Smooth sailing to you...

[coolmom]

Indeed, you are as a refreshing oasis of consistency in the parched, sterile marketplace of ideas. More, we all appreciate that your admiration for HAL extends well beyond its crew and personnel. And why not? This is a HAL board after all.

That said, HAL ticket packages were really over the top. Sometimes they would prepare a full set for each passenger...and send them by FEDEX courier. That was expensive and it was overkill.

What is happening now takes us in the opposite direction - not even bag tags.

How about a middle of the road "Goldilox" solution. Drop the fake leather case and superfluous literature and send out the ticket coupons and baggage tags by 3 -day USMail?

Wouldn't that solution be "Just Right"?:)

It would be IMHO.

Smooth sailing to you...

I think this something eveyone could agree on. I would only add that the download still be available to those that prefer it.

[jtl513]

In the paper doc days, HAL used to send out extra bag tags to those who called and asked for them. Has anyone yet tried to have current tags sent out by calling?

[Shmoo here]

In the paper doc days, HAL used to send out extra bag tags to those who called and asked for them. Has anyone yet tried to have current tags sent out by calling?

I asked HAL about the fact that we would be participating in USDirect. We needed our tags before we check in at the airport. She said they would be mailed. We just received our tags (4 tags = 2 each) in the mail for our Sep 19 cruise out of Vancouver. Just the tags and a letter explaining the USDirect procedure.

:)

[HeatherInFlorida]

Heather, normally I agree with your point of view but theis time I'm pretty offended by this post. First, like I always say if you are not interested then don't read the thread. It is not mandatory! Second, is this the end of the world....of course not. I'm not "stressed out" about these tags. It's just one more hassle I could do without. My day is filled with how am I going to get everything done I need to in a day...and I just can't keep up with it. Again....I'm out of the house 12 hours a day.......doesn't leave much time for anything else. I'm also trying to hold on to my job through this recession.....not sitting on my money pile at home wondering what to do all day with all my time. So.....I do have much more stress then luggage tags to worry about and it offends me for you to make such a comment.

You're offended? That seems a little strong. I'm sorry ... truly. Because one thing I make a point of doing is not offending a group of people.

I'll be honest. I'm offended by an overload of thread titles bemoaning the fact that instead of receiving a blank tag to attach to your bags they are instead attaching a printed tag very quickly to your bags at the pier. Where is the stress and hassle?

I'm the first one to criticize HAL about a lot of things. But when everyone gets on a tear about something so insignificant then I think it's time for people to wake up and smell the coffee.

I stand by my post and it was meant as no personal offense to anyone. It was a statement, not an attack. Personally I'm thrilled when we can gather the $$$ to go on a cruise and how they handle the bags getting to the cabin is at the bottom of my list of hassles.

As I mentioned, there are at least THREE theads in the last 5 days on this topic alone. At one point yesterday (when I posted) they were all on the front page .... so not very difficult to find. In fact my confusion lay in the fact that I had posted on one explaining how worry-free and easy the process was. So of course I was confused when I couldn't find my post to read the most recent.

So I agree ... we can move on to other posts. But this was a subject I had information on so I thought I would contribute. Getting "stressed" or considering this baggage tag situation a "hassle" is, forgive me, losing all sight of reality. Hassle and stress is some people trying to figure out how they're going to live out the balance of their lives without going on welfare, not worrying about their bags at the pier.

One last thing .... why pick on me? Have you seen all the posts on all 3 threads making fun of the nonsense? So why me? I think I can guess. I'm easy .... they're not.

[peaches from georgia]

I've been going over in my mind the whole arrival at the dock procedure, trying to figure out why people are so upset about having the porter put on bag tags. You drive up, take your luggage out of the car, and give your bags to a porter. Stop right there. Give your bags to a porter! In other words, no one ever just left their bags unattended. You have a porter come over and physically take your luggage whether or not you already have tags on them or not. So the only difference now is that the porter will put a tag on each bag and he will certainly have the tags with him. They always had them in their hand even when tags were mailed to you. You will see him do it. It will take a minute or less. How can this be a hassle of such proportion to invoke all this discussion, or any discussion for that matter?

[sail7seas]

<snip>

. So the only difference now is that the porter will put a tag on each bag and he will certainly have the tags with him. They always had them in their hand even when tags were mailed to you. You will see him do it. It will take a minute or less. How can this be a hassle of such proportion to invoke all this discussion, or any discussion for that matter?


As I have posted previously:

We cruised Maasdam in June from Black Falcon Cruise Terminal in Boston.
We had baggage tags but observed fellow guests who did not.

What Peaches just described is exactly how it was handled.
Porter, WITH BAGGAGE TAGS IN HAND, approached them. Asked how many suitcases they were checking. Read their names off their personal baggage tags on their suitcase or asked their name. Entered cabin number. Accepted the proffered gratuity and wished them a good cruise.

Bingo... that was it! Done, finished, get on your way into the terminal

Could not have taken more than 10 seconds per tag.

Please don't stress about it.
If you don't wish to make your own, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO.

Have a great cruise.

[sail7seas]

Indeed, you are as a refreshing oasis of consistency in the parched, sterile marketplace of ideas. More, we all appreciate that your admiration for HAL extends well beyond its crew and personnel. And why not? This is a HAL board after all.




Isn't it good to have a few consistencies in life? :D You can count on me to continue my praise for HAL (assuming they maintain the core of what we love about them.) Thunder would clap and ice would melt the day I no longer eagerly scamper across gangways of blue hulled ships with HAL Officers/crew/staff aboard. :D






Smooth sailing to you...


And smooth sailing to you, as well.

[serendipity1499]

You're offended? That seems a little strong. I'm sorry ... truly. Because one thing I make a point of doing is not offending a group of people.

I'll be honest. I'm offended by an overload of thread titles bemoaning the fact that instead of receiving a blank tag to attach to your bags they are instead attaching a printed tag very quickly to your bags at the pier. Where is the stress and hassle?

I'm the first one to criticize HAL about a lot of things. But when everyone gets on a tear about something so insignificant then I think it's time for people to wake up and smell the coffee.

I stand by my post and it was meant as no personal offense to anyone. It was a statement, not an attack. Personally I'm thrilled when we can gather the $$$ to go on a cruise and how they handle the bags getting to the cabin is at the bottom of my list of hassles.

As I mentioned, there are at least THREE theads in the last 5 days on this topic alone. At one point yesterday (when I posted) they were all on the front page .... so not very difficult to find. In fact my confusion lay in the fact that I had posted on one explaining how worry-free and easy the process was. So of course I was confused when I couldn't find my post to read the most recent.

So I agree ... we can move on to other posts. But this was a subject I had information on so I thought I would contribute. Getting "stressed" or considering this baggage tag situation a "hassle" is, forgive me, losing all sight of reality. Hassle and stress is some people trying to figure out how they're going to live out the balance of their lives without going on welfare, not worrying about their bags at the pier.

One last thing .... why pick on me? Have you seen all the posts on all 3 threads making fun of the nonsense? So why me? I think I can guess. I'm easy .... they're not.

Heather I completely agree with you...Your post was in no way offensive..

I've been going over in my mind the whole arrival at the dock procedure, trying to figure out why people are so upset about having the porter put on bag tags. You drive up, take your luggage out of the car, and give your bags to a porter. Stop right there. Give your bags to a porter! In other words, no one ever just left their bags unattended. You have a porter come over and physically take your luggage whether or not you already have tags on them or not. So the only difference now is that the porter will put a tag on each bag and he will certainly have the tags with him. They always had them in their hand even when tags were mailed to you. You will see him do it. It will take a minute or less. How can this be a hassle of such proportion to invoke all this discussion, or any discussion for that matter?

Agree with you Peaches..I too, don't understand the aversion to having porters at the pier, put tags on your bags..These men are professionals who have been doing it for years...They know what they are doing...

Has anyone ever had an Airline mail baggage tags to you? Of course not! Yet these same porters at very busy airports (CHI, JFK, MIA, LAX etc) check in passengers for 15 or more flights at one time & place tags on your bags... These men are handling 2,000-3,000 passengers in a matter of a few hours for different flights..

Ships Porters, many of which once worked at Airline terminals, are only handling one ship of 1200 to 1800 passengers & have many more hours to handle your baggage...Your luggage is more likely to get lost on an Arriving Airline than at the pier..

Perhaps I'll be flamed for this, but have to say it!..Some mention they are much too busy working to spend the time downloading their cruise tickets/ baggage tags..

I worked for many years in a very stressful job with an International Airline...Left the house at 7:30 a.m., picked up DH at the RR station, we got home after 8: p.m., & I cooked dinner, helped Son with homework & did laundry & cleaning..DH & I were both on call for emergencies or flight delays...Weekends, were spent visiting my Mom in a Nursing Home & spending time with DH & our Son.. Yes, we were busy, but made the time to prepare for our vacations.. I'm still out of the house most days, & find that I spend more time than I should on this board..My stats indicate I have 1.19 posts per day..That's a lot of time spent on this board!:o

However, several posters stats are double what mine are & they claim they can't find the time to download their cruise documents or tags, which could be put on at the pier..:confused: A statement like that baffles me..

[SIZE=3]Maybe we should give you the benefit of the doubt, only because many of you may not realize that your cruise documents & Tags can be downloaded & printed simultaneously, while you are chatting with us on Cruise Critic..After setting it up, your printer's memory, automatically takes over & will print your Docs. while you are on-line with all of us "Cruise addicts":)...You don't have to watch your printer..

Why don't you give it a chance, before you knock it!

Cheers...:)Betty

P.S. Why is it when I edit a post the font changes..(see above) Just deleted one sentence, the size of the font changed from a 3 to a 2..I normally use size 3 font because it's easier to read, but everytimne I edit it auto changes to size 2 font! Drives me bonkers..Boytje if youy are reading this & can you help me again..Thanks BL

[HeatherInFlorida]

...............Maybe we should give you the benefit of the doubt, only because many of you may not realize that your cruise documents & Tags can be downloaded & printed simultaneously, while you are chatting with us on Cruise Critic..After setting it up, your printer's memory, automatically takes over & will print your Docs. while you are on-line with all of us..................L

An excellent point!!!! Everyone seems to have plenty of time to linger on CC getting all frustrated by a simple procedure, but too busy to print out baggage tags.

But aside from that, look at all the time they'll save by not having to fill out the darned tags!!! No one has to print out tags if you don't want to. That's just a convenience if you feel like doing it.

Put your usual luggage tag on your bags, grab your docs and off you go. They'll tag your bags at the pier!!!!!

Problem solved.:)

[fishbabe]

Fishbabe...
To ask that the threads become merged you should send an e-mail to one of the Hosts:

Try either Walt or Joe..

hostwalt@cruisecritic.com (hostwalt@cruisecritic.com) or hostjoe@cruisecritic.com (hostandy@cruisecritic.com)

I agree with you, perhaps this also should become a sticky for a couple of months..

Betty

Betty, thanks. I did find this info. in the sticky and contacted Walt to merge these threads... But now there's 3 :eek::eek::eek:, which does kind of blow my mind. I think this issue calls for practical resolutions, which have already been posted on this thread.

I just keep coming back to see what funny photos our funny photo posters have come up with. It just gives me a chuckle at the end of the day! :D

[LVSue]

Actually no one has to make their own luggage tags. The porters have them and it takes about 6 seconds for them to write name and cabin # on them and attach to your bags. Or print them off your computer. If one insists on stewing about it and making their own at home instead of the computer printout, just take a piece of paper, fold it, put name and cabin # on it with a marker and wrap it in clear packing tape, the Scotch kind on a roll you put on pkgs you are mailing. Put a hole in it. That takes about a minute and a half to do. Good grief. Talk about stressing out! :eek:

Hey, Peaches! Thanks for the perfect solution for me. Luggage tags are great, but you have to remember to write your stateroom number on them (I didn't once—the only time I did them in advance). I'm delighted that the online version has my name and cabin number on them in very legible typeset. And I love the clear tape idea for sturdiness (I also am using card stock), and I have a hole punch. I'll make one for SIL, too!

Pipedreams, you've done it again! Great pix!

[jtl513]

Put your usual luggage tag on your bags, grab your docs and off you go. They'll tag your bags at the pier!!!!!

Problem solved.:)Some posters are worried about "an entire ship-full of passengers filling out bag tags at the pier", causing "chaos and delay." I'm willing to bet that 90% or more of the people show up with the home-printed tags, and the relative few that need to get them at the pier will breeze through! :)

[HeatherInFlorida]

Some posters are worried about "an entire ship-full of passengers filling out bag tags at the pier", causing "chaos and delay." I'm willing to bet that 90% or more of the people show up with the home-printed tags, and the relative few that need to get them at the pier will breeze through! :)

Then perhaps it's done differently on HAL than Celebrity. To be quite honest I was very concerned about the same thing a couple of years ago when we learned we would not get luggage tags and pictured chaos at the pier.

Instead, everyone arrived at the pier (the vast majority without baggage tags). We showed our E-docs and they quickly printed out the tags which looked just like an airline baggage tag all pre-printed and quickly fastened them to our bags ... there was no back-up and no problem.

So if HAL is literally having folks fill them out individually at the pier there's the possibility that could take longer, but the truth is that if you have a luggage tag on your bags all the HAL baggage tag has to have on it is your deck and cabin number. So it really shouldn't take very long.

Believe me, I hate change as much as the next guy but I just can't see this as anything to get concerned about. It's not even a close third to automatic tipping and AYW dining:D;)!

[Gerd]

Dear community,

Could you please mention where I can find the luggage tags print-out on its Hal web-page?



Best regards

G E R D

[serendipity1499]

Dear community,

Could you please mention where I can find the luggage tags print-out on its Hal web-page?

Best regards G E R D

Hello Gerd..You can only find the luggage tags after you have made a booking..When you receive your booking Number from HAL & are ready to do your on-line Check-in, go to the For Booked Guests Window & follow this procedure:

A) Scroll down to on-line Check-in Box
B) Log in or create your HAL account (if you don't have one)
C) At sign in window insert your e-mail address & Password
D) On-Line check in screen appears...Scroll down to Right Corner: insert Booking Number & Last Name
E) Scroll down to see your check-in info...
F) Just below that your luggage tags are indicated.
G) Pull up Tags: Your tag will include:
Name of Ship in Color: Followed by Cabin Number in large Numbers
Also Included: Your name(s) & Date of Departure..

H) Insert No.of tags required & hit Print..

Your printer's Memory will then take over:

Tried to download our tags, erase our name & cabin No. to see if I can post a sample here, but don't know how to do it..Sorry

Good Luck..Betty

[fun_seeker]

Hello Gerd..You can only find the luggage tags after you have made a booking..When you receive your booking Number from HAL & are ready to do your on-line Check-in, go to the For Booked Guests Window & follow this procedure:

A) Scroll down to on-line Check-in Box
B) Log in or create your HAL account (if you don't have one)
C) At sign in window insert your e-mail address & Password
D) On-Line check in screen appears...Scroll down to Right Corner: insert Booking Number & Last Name
E) Scroll down to see your check-in info...
F) Just below that your luggage tags are indicated.
G) Pull up Tags: Your tag will include:
Name of Ship in Color: Followed by Cabin Number in large Numbers
Also Included: Your name(s) & Date of Departure..

H) Insert No.of tags required & hit Print..

Your printer's Memory will then take over:

Tried to download our tags, erase our name & cabin No. to see if I can post a sample here, but don't know how to do it..Sorry

Good Luck..Betty


Excellent instructions, Betty. Our hats are off to you. :cool:

[serendipity1499]

Thanks Fun Seeker(s)...I could not do it from memory..Had to hand write each step...

Now need help with posting, the scanned a picture on this thread..

Here is the problem:

Was able to scan our Bag Tag into "My Pictures" only.. However, can't block out our cabin Number & our Name, so instead I'll hand block our Name & cabin No/..Then will rescan it into my pictures..After that I'm a complete dummy, as don't know how to post the picture into this thread...:confused::confused:

If anyone is willing to give me step by step instructions, I'll try..Plesase note I'm a complete dummy on working with pictures..

Or, if someone is willing to post it for me, I'll be glad to e-mail you & include it as an attachment..

I appreciate any help you can give me..Thanks..

Betty

[pipedreams62]

Now it's time for


http://www.grassroots.com/images/2007-01-19_grouphug_395wide.jpg

[serendipity1499]

This might work...Looks like it worked as a thumbnail attachment..Perhaps if you click on it it will be enlarged..

Pipedreams...Did I do it correctly?

[serendipity1499]

It prints on 8 1/2 by 11 paper, which you fold into thirds..This is the best I could do..

Can someone tell me how to enlarge it like Pipedreams pictures...

Your Name will appear like this on your tags..

Mr. Smith John

MRS. Smith Mary

There is no comma between Last & first Name..

:)Betty

[Gerd]

...


Hello Betty

I just re-entered into its HAL on-line-checkin but could again not find the tags.

Please specify your position "E" and "F" because I cannot find it.



Happy cruising and many thanks

G E R D



Our marvelous cruises : :)

MS Ryndam – Wayfarer – March 1997
MS Noordam - Transatlantic Island Hook - April 2001
MS Volendam - Southern Caribbean - April 2002
MS Volendam - Westfarer Caribbean - April 2004
MS Prinsendam - Windmills & Waterford – September 2004
MS Westerdam - Western Caribbean - April 2005
MS Statendam - Hawaii Circle - September 2005
MS Rotterdam - Vikings and Czars – July 2006
MS Veendam - Southern Caribbean – March 2007
MS Volendam – Panama Canal – April 2008

116 days - 33'054 Nm :



Future Cruise : :p


10-day Mediterranean Enchantment :

http://ticker.nauticalcities.com/001/1a9e527468f45e24344692102efb55de.png (http://www.nauticalcities.com/)


10-day Mediterranean Inaugural Cruise :

http://ticker.nauticalcities.com/001/3555772246558c9c770ebc7e38eba56d.png (http://www.nauticalcities.com/)


12-day Mediterranean Empires :

http://ticker.nauticalcities.com/001/a4ed661628a8d0b24f580e2daed576d0.png (http://www.nauticalcities.com/)

[pms4104]

Not sure, but maybe you need to complete your online checkin to access the luggage tag link.

We completed our online checkin before HAL made this change to all paper docs effective September 25, and I am able to print tags.

[catl331]

This might work...Looks like it worked as a thumbnail attachment..Perhaps if you click on it it will be enlarged..

Pipedreams...Did I do it correctly? Here's one after folding:

[YXU AC*SE]

Bonjour Gerd,

S'il est plus facile pour vous, svp «e-mail» moi directement, et je vous guiderai, en français, avec les récupérations d'écran. Mon courriel est info@empyreanllc.ca

Scott.

[serendipity1499]

Gerd...I never asked you when you were traveling?

If your cruise is before the rule takes effect, believe it's mid-Sept. your baggage tags should be mailed to you...

And you can pull up your baggage tags before completing your on-line check in..

Betty

[jtl513]

If your cruise is before the rule takes effect, believe it's mid-Sept. your baggage tags should be mailed to you...Sept 25th

Please specify your position "E" and "F" because I cannot find it.
Do you see a box on the first OnLine CheckIn page marked GUESTS, with names and Mariner numbers?

Below that there should be a box marked LUGGAGE TAGS. If that is missing, then I would say the tags are not available to you for some reason.

[fun_seeker]

Here's one after folding:
FYI - It is legible when clicked on.

[serendipity1499]

Sept 25th...

Thanks for clarifying the date...For some reason I missed Camp's post which also mentioned the date..

Do you see a box on the first OnLine CheckIn page marked GUESTS, with names and Mariner numbers?

Below that there should be a box marked LUGGAGE TAGS. If that is missing, then I would say the tags are not available to you for some reason.

Thanks., jtl..Your explanation is clearer than mine.. Just altered my saved document to incorporate your explanation...

(Quote/) If that is missing, then I would say the tags are not available to you for some reason.[/quote]

Never thought about that, but you might be right.. Perhaps the tags are not available to customers outside of North America..

I'm wondering about Psgrs. booked on strictly European or Trans-Atlantic cruises..

As others have mentioned, we can have tags put on our luggage with no hassle at North American Ports, but wonder how the various European Baggage Handlers will handle luggage without Tags..Check-in procedures vary in Europe...

Our Friends are booked on the "Oosterdam" Trans-Atlantic in October boarding in BCN...They are neophytes when it comes to working on-line..They've asked for my help with their on-line check in..Guess I should print up their tags too..

Betty

[TiggerG]

Hey, Peaches! Thanks for the perfect solution for me. Luggage tags are great, but you have to remember to write your stateroom number on them (I didn't once—the only time I did them in advance). I'm delighted that the online version has my name and cabin number on them in very legible typeset. And I love the clear tape idea for sturdiness (I also am using card stock), and I have a hole punch. I'll make one for SIL, too!

Pipedreams, you've done it again! Great pix!

Hi, I have checked in, have looked most everywhere and still cannot find where the tags are that can be printed.

Could anyone help this " helpless computer person" find the right place?

thanks.:)

[pms4104]

Hi, I have checked in, have looked most everywhere and still cannot find where the tags are that can be printed.

Could anyone help this " helpless computer person" find the right place?

thanks.:)
When are you sailing? Are you due paper docs? If not, go back to your online checkin page, where it shows the names of the passengers and that your online checkin is complete. Just below that, is a box with the a dropdown showing the name of pax #1 and a separate dropdown to indicate how many tags you want to print. After you do pax #1, use the dropdown for each successive pax.

[YXU AC*SE]

Go to online check-in. Log in with your confirmation number and family name. Once you get to the check-in screen, below the list of pax names where you have entered passport / immigration form and credit card info, you will see the tag application right there. (edited to say: Oops - - Camp637 and I were replying at the same time)

Scott.

[jtl513]

Never thought about that, but you might be right.. Perhaps the tags are not available to customers outside of North America...
I think it's more likely the Sept 25 switch-over date that you suggested before - that people sailing before than can't print their own. Gerd appears to be sailing Sept 16th.

Hi, I have checked in, have looked most everywhere and still cannot find where the tags are that can be printed.

Could anyone help this " helpless computer person" find the right place?Since you're going beforte 9/25, weren't you mailed some?

[Shmoo here]

I think it's more likely the Sept 25 switch-over date that you suggested before - that people sailing before than can't print their own. Gerd appears to be sailing Sept 16th.

Since you're going beforte 9/25, weren't you mailed some?

We're sailing 9/19 and I was able to print luggage tags from the website. We also received luggage tags in the mail. Because we are traveling direct from a US airport to Vancouver on the day of sailing, we are eligible for US Direct. The tags need to be on the luggage before airport checkin. In these cases HAL mails tags to you, maybe because they are different than the regular ones so the USDirect people can recognize the bags.:confused:

Anyway, we have plenty of tags now!

:)

[Gerd]

...

Hello "serendipity1499" at all,

great thanks for your and all other explanations.


Salut Scott,

I really appreciate your letter in French – but I am German, who works in Switzerland in a almost English speaking community, but lives in France…..; so I am real multi-languages….


But it is surely not a language question and also not a PC glitch, but as some poster mentioned it, it’s certainly correlated to my sailing date which is September 16.


I did fill-out my boarding pass already around April, but was –logically- only now able to print everything out (after final payment date and my money has undoubtedly arrived in the moneybag at Seattle headquarter).

But on my HAL web-page, something about luggage tags are still not there. And I guess they don wont will be till my next cruise the "Inaugural MS Nieuw Amsterdam" one.



=> And with a great surprise, its just today, that I did receive one of the last of those highly seen "blue folder".

So we are doing now our doc-dance yeah, yeah, yeah…:p



Happy cruising and many thanks

G E R D



Our marvelous cruises : :)

MS Ryndam – Wayfarer – March 1997
MS Noordam - Transatlantic Island Hook - April 2001
MS Volendam - Southern Caribbean - April 2002
MS Volendam - Westfarer Caribbean - April 2004
MS Prinsendam - Windmills & Waterford – September 2004
MS Westerdam - Western Caribbean - April 2005
MS Statendam - Hawaii Circle - September 2005
MS Rotterdam - Vikings and Czars – July 2006
MS Veendam - Southern Caribbean – March 2007
MS Volendam – Panama Canal – April 2008

116 days - 33'054 Nm :



Future Cruise : :p


10-day Mediterranean Enchantment :

http://ticker.nauticalcities.com/001/1a9e527468f45e24344692102efb55de.png (http://www.nauticalcities.com/)


10-day Mediterranean Inaugural Cruise :

http://ticker.nauticalcities.com/001/3555772246558c9c770ebc7e38eba56d.png (http://www.nauticalcities.com/)


12-day Mediterranean Empires :

http://ticker.nauticalcities.com/001/a4ed661628a8d0b24f580e2daed576d0.png (http://www.nauticalcities.com/)

[serendipity1499]

Gerd...So happy to see you have received the blue folder with your docs & presumably your baggage tags..

I've never received the new blue folder, as we booked both our cruises very late last year..I was disappointed not to have the new folder, however my Friend, who never keeps them gave me hers...It's lovely..

Have a wonderful time on your cruise..:)Betty

[LVSue]

Imagine my surprise to read that the luggage tags are color-coded by ship! I guess the "color" for the Zuiderdam is black; don't know what I will do for other ships since my printer is b/w. (There's always something....) :(

I really don't think date has anything to do with it (except possibly booking date--if you booked before they started charging for docs). We leave on the 19th as well and as stated were able to print our tags even before we completed the on-line check-in (from link on that page).

Just for fun, since I had a clear 3x5 luggage tag, I printed the BP at 70% and now have the cutest mini-luggage-tag. I suppose the porters wouldn't consider it very cute.

It's no wonder people are confused: here's a paragraph from my Express Docs: "For guests who sail with us beyond March 22, 2009, and who have Holland America Line’s Express Docs: The new luggage tags will be sent to you or your travel professionals prior to your departure."

:confused: I had my very efficient TA check on that, and here is her response:

I called HAL about that paragraph and they stated it was incorrect as maybe it hadn't been updated since the new policy. They are certainly going to bring it to someone's attention so they can have it removed and stop the confusion.

So EVERYONE is receiving that information, if you bother to read it, and EVERYONE is misinformed! HAL, get your act together!

[TiggerG]

When are you sailing? Are you due paper docs? If not, go back to your online checkin page, where it shows the names of the passengers and that your online checkin is complete. Just below that, is a box with the a dropdown showing the name of pax #1 and a separate dropdown to indicate how many tags you want to print. After you do pax #1, use the dropdown for each successive pax.


Thank you for your reply.......:D

[TiggerG]

Go to online check-in. Log in with your confirmation number and family name. Once you get to the check-in screen, below the list of pax names where you have entered passport / immigration form and credit card info, you will see the tag application right there. (edited to say: Oops - - Camp637 and I were replying at the same time)

Scott.

Thanks for responding.......:D

[PatsyAnne]

I was just online checking on shore excursions and found the place to print luggage tags, so I printed one to see what it was like. Now I'm looking at it pretending it won't be 4 1/2 more months before I can use it :(. I guess I can spend the time daydreaming.

Trish

[pipedreams62]

http://pipedreams62.eaph2.com/share/afunstuffjuly/qprintluggage.jpg

[PatsyAnne]

Pipedreams, your picture reminds me of trying to teach a railroad clerk how to use a computer terminal, when it took him half a minute to figure out which button to push to answer the phone (btw, the blinking one). This was in the mid-1970s. Matter of fact, it looks like him.

Trish

[Rassa]

3 weeks out and we have just got our luggage tags but our guarantee booking has no cabin assignment yet - so the wait is still on and on and onnnnn..
Rassa

[fun_seeker]

3 weeks out and we have just got our luggage tags but our guarantee booking has no cabin assignment yet - so the wait is still on and on and onnnnn..
Rassa
We didn't find out our cabin assignment until about 12 days before our cruise this year. HAL had said it might be anytime from seven days before and that we might not get them until we boarded. Good thing we found out early because boarding was incredibly slow and disorganized.

[cruisecouple2]

What's next is that HAL will ask us to fold our own dinner napkins or instruct an Origami class on board for those who had trouble folding and attaching their paper bag tags!

I will not cruise HAL again because I like to prepare sturdy tags prior to leaving on the vacation. I am NOT going to carry a stapler or tape with me as I vacation in Europe prior to embarkation or ask the hotel to provide them, or go through the expense and time of laminating them myself.

[maxout]

What's next is that HAL will ask us to fold our own dinner napkins or instruct an Origami class on board for those who had trouble folding and attaching their paper bag tags!

I will not cruise HAL again because I like to prepare sturdy tags prior to leaving on the vacation. I am NOT going to carry a stapler or tape with me as I vacation in Europe prior to embarkation or ask the hotel to provide them, or go through the expense and time of laminating them myself.

Then get them at the pier.

[Roz]

I wouldn't sail or not sail with a cruise line based on a luggage tag. I mean, it's only a luggage tag. I politely ask for a stapler at the hotel desk, and don't have a problem with that. More and more cruise lines are going to the paper tags. As Maxout suggested, wait until you get to the pier if the paper tags freak you out.

Roz