are tires allowed as check-in baggage? (size 275/45ZR20)

[TimSpencer]

I have two tires, size 275/45ZR20, that I plan to take with me.

The tires were shipped to me from TireRack a few weeks ago.

TireRack shipped them by bundling the two tirew together with

heavy-duty packing tape.

should I get a large cardboard box for each tire or can I just

take them as-is and check them in?

The Amtrak reservation agents said "ok" or "maybe" (why can

I never get a simple yes or no answer from these guys?)

I don't want to arrive the station and have the Amtrak check-in

agent refuse them...

any info appreciated!

 

[Ispolkom]

I have two tires, size 275/45ZR20, that I plan to take with me.
The tires were shipped to me from TireRack a few weeks ago.

TireRack shipped them by bundling the two tirew together with

heavy-duty packing tape.

should I get a large cardboard box for each tire or can I just

take them as-is and check them in?

The Amtrak reservation agents said "ok" or "maybe" (why can

I never get a simple yes or no answer from these guys?)

I don't want to arrive the station and have the Amtrak check-in

agent refuse them...

any info appreciated!

Call the station you're traveling from and ask them. They're the ones who will check the luggage, so they'd be the best to know. I know that in Amtrak *won't* take baggage weighing more than 50 lbs. On the Amtrak Web site I find: "Suitable Bags: Pack your baggage using sturdy luggage or containers that are capable of withstanding expected handling. Please note that we do not accept plastic storage containers, lightweight suit bags, and other similar items as checked baggage. " Another option might be Amtrak Express Shipping, but I've never used that. I have seen them loading human remains on board the Empire Builder, though, so I know somebody uses it.