PIR — the baggage complaint form you MUST get
The PIR is the official form for registering a baggage issue at the airport. No PIR, no claim — remember this before leaving baggage claim.
A PIR (Property Irregularity Report) is the official IATA form on which an airline records that your baggage was lost, damaged, or delayed. It is your legal evidence that you reported in time — without a PIR a claim is nearly impossible.
Where to get a PIR? At the baggage / lost-and-found counter in the arrivals zone, before you leave the baggage carousel area. At Schiphol you'll find Aviapartner / Menzies / KLM's own counters in the baggage hall. Do not queue at passport control without a PIR.
What it contains: a PIR number (unique, ~10 characters), flight/date details, baggage tag number, owner contact details, baggage description (colour, brand, contents summary), nature of issue (lost / damaged / delayed), and the baggage handler's stamp + signature.
Time pressure (Art. 31 Montreal Convention):
- Damaged baggage: PIR within 7 days of receipt;
- Delayed baggage: PIR within 21 days of eventual receipt;
- Fully lost: after 21 days deemed permanently lost.
Practical tips: photograph the PIR form immediately with your phone (paper gets lost); note the baggage handler's name and direct contact; ask for a damage approval for necessary purchases at destination (clothing, toiletries).
Lost or damaged baggage? Claim up to €1,500
We draft a formal damage-claim letter under the Montreal Convention (Art. 17, 19, 22). Send-ready PDF — limit ~€1,500 per passenger.
Start — €9,99