Understanding Domestic Flight Baggage Rules in the USA

When flying domestically within the United States, understanding the baggage allowance is paramount to avoiding unexpected fees and travel disruptions. While there are general industry standards, each airline establishes its specific policies regarding the size, weight, and number of carry-on and checked items you can bring. This article clarifies the typical allowances and highlights what you must verify directly with your chosen carrier.

  • Carry-on and checked baggage rules vary by airline.
  • Dimension and weight limits apply to both carry-on and checked bags.
  • Personal items have their own size restrictions.
  • Fees are common for exceeding limits or for checked bags on basic economy fares.
  • Always verify your specific airline's policy before traveling.

The core of domestic baggage regulations revolves around two main categories: carry-on baggage and checked baggage. Carry-on items are those you bring into the aircraft cabin with you, while checked baggage is stowed in the cargo hold. Most airlines permit at least one carry-on bag and one personal item per passenger, but the specifics of what fits and how much it can weigh differ significantly. Checked baggage allowances are also subject to airline policies, often varying based on your ticket class and destination, with fees typically applied for each bag beyond the initial allowance.

When planning your trip, the most critical step is to consult the official baggage policy of the specific airline you are flying with. This information is readily available on their website, usually under sections like 'Travel Information,' 'Baggage,' or 'FAQ.' Airlines often provide detailed diagrams and specific measurements for compliant bags. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in your carry-on bag being re-categorized as checked baggage at the gate, incurring additional fees, or your checked baggage being refused or incurring excess weight/size charges.

Beyond the standard carry-on and checked bags, many airlines also allow a 'personal item.' This is typically a smaller bag like a backpack, handbag, laptop bag, or a small duffel bag that must fit under the seat in front of you. The size and definition of a personal item can be even more restrictive than a carry-on, so paying attention to these details can save you from having to consolidate items or pay extra fees if your personal item is deemed too large.

The most crucial step before packing is to visit your airline's website for their current baggage policies.

This proactive approach is the single most effective way to prevent surprises and ensure you pack appropriately for your domestic journey within the United States. These policies are subject to change, so checking before each flight is a prudent practice, even if you've flown with the same airline recently.

Carry-On Baggage: What Fits in the Cabin?

What are the typical dimensions for carry-on baggage on a domestic flight in the USA?

Carry-on baggage dimensions are a common source of confusion and potential fees. While there's no single federal standard for carry-on luggage size, major U.S. airlines generally adhere to a range that allows bags to fit into overhead bins. The most frequently cited maximum dimension for a standard carry-on bag is 22 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches deep (56 cm x 35 cm x 23 cm). This includes wheels and handles.

This standard size is widely adopted, but slight variations exist. For instance, some airlines might allow a slightly larger width or depth while specifying a smaller length, or vice versa. It's essential to note that the 9-inch depth is particularly important, as it refers to the bag's thickness when full. Airlines need to ensure that bags can fit comfortably and safely into the overhead compartments, which have limited space. Many carriers provide templates or visual guides on their websites to help you measure your bag accurately.

The weight of carry-on baggage is also a consideration, though less frequently enforced than dimensions, especially on larger aircraft. However, if a bag is noticeably heavy, gate agents may request that you demonstrate you can lift it into the overhead bin unassisted. Some smaller regional jets might have stricter weight limits for cabin baggage due to space constraints, so always check if your flight involves such aircraft. Some airlines may specify a maximum weight, often around 20-25 pounds (9-11 kg), although this is not universal and often not strictly enforced unless the bag appears excessively heavy.

Personal Items: The Second Cabin Bag

A personal item, distinct from your main carry-on, is usually a smaller bag designed to fit under the seat in front of you. This can include a purse, laptop bag, small backpack, or a briefcase. The typical dimensions for a personal item are considerably smaller than a carry-on, often around 17 inches by 10 inches by 4 inches (43 cm x 25 cm x 10 cm), but again, this varies significantly by airline. This item must be able to slide completely under the seat, meaning its structure and flexibility play a role in its compliance.

Some airlines are very specific about what constitutes a personal item, while others are more lenient. For example, a standard backpack might be acceptable as a carry-on by some, but if it's larger than their specified personal item dimensions, it might need to be checked or counted as your main carry-on. This distinction is vital for budget airlines, which often charge for carry-on bags but permit one personal item for free. By understanding the airline's definition, you can strategically pack your essentials into your personal item to avoid potential fees.

The goal is to ensure your personal item, when placed under the seat, does not impede the legroom of passengers in front of you or interfere with the operation of the aircraft. Items like cameras, laptops in their cases, or small personal bags are generally suitable. If you're traveling with items that don't fit neatly into these categories, consider consolidating them into your main carry-on or checking them if they exceed size or weight limits.

Always measure your personal item against your airline's specific dimensions before you travel.

A common pitfall is assuming a bag that has worked for years will still be compliant. Airlines frequently update their policies to manage cabin space and boarding times more efficiently. What might have been acceptable a year ago could now be considered too large, leading to an unwanted gate check fee.

Checked Baggage: Weight, Size, and Number Limits

What are the standard limits for checked baggage weight and size in the USA?

For checked baggage on domestic U.S. flights, the most common weight limit per bag is 50 pounds (approximately 23 kg). This limit is widely enforced by most major airlines for standard economy and economy plus fares. Exceeding this weight typically incurs an excess weight fee, which can be substantial, often starting around $100 for the first tier of overweight bags (e.g., 51-70 lbs) and increasing for heavier bags.

The linear dimensions (length + width + height) for checked bags are also regulated. The common maximum for standard checked luggage is 62 linear inches (approximately 157 cm). This measurement is calculated by adding the length, width, and height of the bag together. Bags exceeding this dimension are considered oversized and will incur an additional fee, often on top of any potential overweight charges. For example, a bag might be 30 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 12 inches deep, totaling 62 linear inches.

The number of checked bags allowed without incurring fees varies significantly based on the airline, your fare class, and often your loyalty program status or credit card affiliation. For many domestic routes, the first checked bag might be free on full-service carriers, while budget airlines or basic economy fares often charge for every checked bag. The second checked bag, if permitted, will almost always incur a higher fee than the first.

Fees and How to Avoid Them

To avoid paying for checked baggage, consider if all your items can fit within your carry-on and personal item allowances. This strategy is particularly effective on airlines that charge for the first checked bag. Packing efficiently, using compression packing cubes, and wearing bulkier items like jackets or boots can help you maximize your cabin baggage capacity. If you must check a bag, familiarize yourself with the airline's fee structure beforehand. Fees are typically charged per bag, per direction of travel.

Loyalty program members often receive one or more free checked bags, depending on their tier status. Similarly, many airline-branded credit cards offer a free checked bag benefit for the cardholder and sometimes for companions on the same reservation. If you frequently fly domestically and check bags, these benefits can translate into significant savings over time. Checking these loyalty and credit card perks before booking can influence your choice of airline and save you money.

Always check your airline's specific fees for checked baggage, including overweight and oversized charges, before arriving at the airport.

If your bag is close to the weight or size limit, it's wise to weigh it at home using a luggage scale and measure it carefully. Some travelers opt for lighter luggage to begin with, as the empty weight of the bag can contribute to the total weight. Understanding that these fees are a revenue stream for airlines means they are often strictly enforced, and exceptions are rare.

Specific Items and Prohibited Articles

What specific items have unique baggage rules for domestic flights in the USA?

Beyond standard luggage, many travelers wonder about specific items like electronics, sports equipment, or liquids. For liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on baggage, the TSA's 3-1-1 rule is the standard: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, all containers must fit in one quart-sized clear zip-top bag, and one such bag is allowed per passenger. This rule applies to items like toiletries, lotions, and some cosmetics. Larger quantities of liquids are permitted in checked baggage, but there are still restrictions on certain hazardous materials.

Electronics like laptops, tablets, and cameras are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, for carry-on, you may be asked to remove larger electronics (like laptops) from your bag and place them in a separate bin for screening. Ensure your electronics are fully charged, as you may be asked to power them on to prove they are functional devices. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in power banks, laptops, and portable chargers, have specific rules. While power banks are typically allowed in carry-on bags (and often prohibited in checked baggage), they usually have maximum capacity limits, often around 100Wh (Watt-hours) or 27,000 mAh (milliampere-hours). Always check your airline's policy for these specific power bank limitations.

Sports equipment, such as skis, golf clubs, or bicycles, often falls outside standard baggage dimensions and weight limits. Airlines typically handle these as special baggage items, which usually require advance notice and incur separate, often substantial, fees. These items are almost always checked and may require specific packing requirements (e.g., bikes must have pedals removed and handlebars turned sideways). Ensure you check the airline's policy for the specific type of sports equipment you plan to bring, as rules can be very detailed.

Prohibited Items: What You Cannot Bring

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) maintains a comprehensive list of prohibited items that cannot be brought onto an aircraft, either in carry-on or checked baggage, unless specifically permitted under strict conditions. This includes items that could be used as weapons, explosives, flammable materials, and certain chemicals. Examples include firearms (which must be declared and transported in a locked, hard-sided container in checked baggage), fireworks, realistic replicas of weapons, bleach, and aerosols like tear gas.

There are also restrictions on sharp objects, certain tools, and blunt instruments. Knives (except small ones like plastic cutlery), box cutters, swords, and martial arts weapons are generally not allowed in carry-on bags but may be permitted in checked baggage if properly secured. Tools like hammers, drills, and crowbars are also usually restricted to checked luggage. It's crucial to review the TSA's 'What Can I Bring?' tool on their website if you are unsure about any specific item. This tool provides definitive guidance based on current regulations.

When it comes to certain consumables, like food, there are also considerations. Most home-prepared food items are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, you cannot bring certain foods across state lines if they are subject to agricultural restrictions, though this is more common for international travel. Alcohol is permitted in checked baggage up to certain limits (e.g., 5 liters of alcohol between 24% and 70% ABV per person), but is generally prohibited in carry-on bags unless purchased at the airport beyond security and kept in its original, sealed packaging. For any item where you have doubts, checking the TSA website or the airline's specific policy is the safest approach.

The TSA website's 'What Can I Bring?' tool is the definitive resource for prohibited and restricted items.

Misunderstanding these rules can lead to confiscation of items at security checkpoints or significant delays. It's always better to err on the side of caution and verify before you pack. Remember, even if an item is permitted by the TSA, the airline might have its own rules, especially for items like musical instruments or large sporting goods.

Airlines with Unique Baggage Policies

Are there specific airlines in the USA with notably different baggage policies?

Yes, airline baggage policies can differ significantly, especially among budget carriers versus full-service airlines. Budget airlines like Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines are well-known for their strict adherence to size limits and their extensive fee structures. On these airlines, even a standard carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin often incurs a fee, and they are very precise about the dimensions allowed for both carry-on and personal items. Their definition of a personal item is usually quite small, and anything larger, including many standard backpacks, will be charged as a carry-on or checked bag.

Full-service carriers such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines tend to offer more generous allowances for carry-on baggage, typically including one standard carry-on bag and one personal item for free with most fare types. Their checked baggage fees are also generally more structured, with the first bag often being included on certain routes or fare classes, though this is becoming less common, especially for basic economy tickets. These airlines also tend to have more robust policies for accommodating items like musical instruments or sports equipment, often with specific guidelines and associated fees.

Southwest Airlines operates on a unique model where they allow two free checked bags per passenger with no size or weight penalty, provided the bags adhere to standard dimensions (62 linear inches) and weight limits (50 lbs). They do not charge for standard carry-on bags either. This policy makes Southwest a popular choice for travelers who need to transport more luggage. However, their carry-on size allowance is similar to other major carriers, and they also allow a personal item that fits under the seat.

Navigating Budget Airline Fees

Budget airlines like Allegiant Air, Spirit, and Frontier often make their money on ancillary fees, and baggage is a primary source. For these airlines, it's crucial to understand their fee structure *before* booking. Fees for carry-on and checked bags are typically lower if purchased online in advance compared to at the airport. Prices can also fluctuate based on demand and how close you are to your departure date. Therefore, if you plan to check a bag or bring a carry-on on a budget airline, add those costs into your overall ticket price comparison.

For example, on Spirit Airlines, a 'Personal Item' (which must fit under the seat) has specific, tight dimensions. A 'Carry-On Bag' (which fits in the overhead bin) is a separate, larger item that comes with a fee. If your bag exceeds the personal item dimensions but you try to bring it as such, you'll be charged the carry-on fee, plus a potential gate fee. Their checked bag fees also vary by weight and how far in advance they are purchased. Always consult their website, as these fees are dynamic and can change.

When flying budget airlines, purchase all your baggage allowances online in advance to secure the lowest prices.

It is not uncommon for passengers to be surprised by the fees on these airlines if they are not well-informed. Proactive planning and understanding each fee component—personal item, carry-on, checked bag, overweight, and oversized—will save you considerable money and stress. If you're on a tight budget, packing light and fitting everything into the free personal item allowance is the most economical strategy.

Travel with Children's Baggage

What are the baggage allowances for infants and children on domestic flights in the USA?

When traveling with infants or young children on domestic flights in the USA, baggage allowances can be slightly different. Typically, infants (under two years old) who are not occupying their own seat (lap children) may not be entitled to their own carry-on baggage allowance. However, most airlines permit parents traveling with infants to bring a diaper bag or a small backpack containing essentials for the child into the cabin, in addition to their own personal item. This item often needs to fit under the seat.

For children occupying their own seat (typically age two and above), they are usually entitled to the same carry-on baggage allowance as any adult passenger, including one carry-on bag and one personal item. Some airlines may have specific policies for car seats and strollers. Often, one stroller and one car seat per child can be checked for free at the gate or at the check-in counter. Some parents prefer to bring car seats as carry-on items if they fit within the airline's size and weight restrictions, but this counts as their allotted carry-on bag.

Checked baggage allowances for children are generally the same as for adults, based on the fare purchased. If your ticket includes free checked bags, your child's bags will also fall under that allowance. However, it's always wise to verify the specific airline's policy regarding car seats and strollers, as these are common items that travelers bring for children and often have special provisions made for them. Some airlines might have weight or size limits even for these complimentary items, so checking ahead is advisable.

Strollers and Car Seats: Gate Check vs. Check-in

Most airlines allow you to check strollers and car seats either at the ticket counter or at the gate. Gate-checking is often more convenient, as you can use the item until you board the aircraft. You then leave it with the flight attendants at the jet bridge, and it will be returned to you at the gate upon arrival at your destination. This avoids the risk of the item being lost or damaged in the main baggage system.

If you choose to check a car seat at the ticket counter, it will be handled like any other checked bag and will be delivered to the baggage claim area at your destination. For strollers, some airlines offer larger, umbrella-style strollers that can be used for gate-checking, while others may require that the stroller be folded and meet certain size limitations even for gate check. Always confirm with your airline about the specific process and any potential restrictions for your child's travel gear.

Verify your airline's policy on strollers and car seats well in advance of your travel date.

Packing efficiently for a child can be challenging. Many parents find it helpful to pack a separate, well-organized diaper bag or backpack with essentials like diapers, wipes, changes of clothes, snacks, and entertainment items for the flight. This ensures that these items are easily accessible in the cabin, rather than having to retrieve them from a checked bag during the flight.

Packing Strategy for Domestic Flights

What are effective strategies for packing for domestic flights in the USA?

Developing an effective packing strategy for domestic flights is key to maximizing your baggage allowance and minimizing potential fees. The first step is to create a detailed packing list based on the duration and purpose of your trip, as well as the climate at your destination. Consider the activities you will be undertaking and pack only what is truly necessary. Lay out all potential items and then try to reduce the selection by at least 20%.

For carry-on optimization, utilize packing cubes or compression bags. These tools help you organize your belongings and can significantly reduce the volume of your clothing. By compressing air out of items like sweaters or pants, you can fit more into your carry-on or personal item, potentially allowing you to avoid checking a bag altogether. Wear your bulkiest items, such as jackets, boots, or sweaters, on the plane. This frees up significant space and weight in your luggage.

When packing toiletries and liquids, strictly adhere to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for carry-on bags. Decant larger bottles into smaller, travel-sized containers (under 3.4 ounces/100 ml). Place all these small containers in a single, clear, quart-sized zip-top bag. If you have larger liquid items, pack them in your checked baggage, ensuring they are sealed properly to prevent leaks. Consider using solid toiletries like shampoo bars or bar soap to bypass liquid restrictions entirely.

Maximizing Your Personal Item

Your personal item is a valuable, often free, piece of luggage that can hold essentials you'll need during the flight or immediately upon arrival. Use it strategically for items like medications, electronics, a book, snacks, and a change of clothes in case your checked bag is delayed. Ensure it meets your airline's specific dimensions for a personal item, as budget carriers are particularly strict on this. A slim backpack or a structured tote bag often works well, as they can conform to space constraints.

For electronics, ensure they are charged. Laptops, tablets, and e-readers can provide entertainment, and portable power banks are useful for keeping devices charged on the go, but remember their restrictions (typically 100Wh/27,000 mAh maximum for carry-on). Keep all charging cables and adapters organized, perhaps in a small tech pouch. If you are carrying a camera or other sensitive equipment, consider its placement within your bag to protect it from damage.

Organize your personal item for easy access during the flight and for quick retrieval after landing.

Packing light not only saves money on baggage fees but also makes navigating airports and public transportation significantly easier. Embrace the challenge of minimalist packing; it often leads to a more streamlined and enjoyable travel experience. Remember to weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport to avoid any last-minute repacking or unexpected fees.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

What are the most frequent errors travelers make regarding domestic flight baggage in the USA?

One of the most common mistakes is assuming baggage rules are universal across all airlines. This oversight often leads to surprises at the check-in counter or gate, where passengers discover their bag exceeds the allowed dimensions or weight for their specific carrier. Always verify the policy of the airline you are flying with, especially if it's a different carrier than usual or a budget airline with more stringent rules.

Another frequent error is misjudging the size of carry-on and personal items. Many people believe their standard backpack or small suitcase is compliant, only to find it's too large for the airline's specific requirements. Remember that dimensions often include wheels and handles. Airlines provide precise measurements; measure your bag using a tape measure at home. Similarly, underestimating the weight of checked luggage is common. A few extra items can easily push a bag over the 50-pound limit, incurring significant fees.

Packing prohibited items in carry-on luggage is another prevalent mistake. While the TSA has a comprehensive list, travelers sometimes forget about items like full-sized scissors, certain tools, or even liquids exceeding the 3.4-ounce limit. These items will be confiscated at security, causing delays and frustration. Always check the TSA's 'What Can I Bring?' tool online if you are unsure about any item.

Packing Prohibitions and Misunderstandings

A significant number of travelers misunderstand the rules for lithium-ion batteries, particularly in power banks and portable chargers. While generally allowed in carry-on bags, they are typically prohibited in checked baggage. Furthermore, there are often limits on the Watt-hour or milliampere-hour rating of these batteries (e.g., 100 Wh or 27,000 mAh). Bringing a power bank that exceeds these limits can result in it being confiscated. Make sure your battery-powered devices are powered on to demonstrate they are functional electronics.

Forgetting to check the airline's specific rules for special items like sports equipment, musical instruments, or even car seats for children can also lead to problems. These items often have unique packing requirements and separate fee structures. Assuming they will be treated like standard luggage can result in unexpected charges or refusal to board. Advance planning and communication with the airline are vital for these types of items.

Finally, not factoring in the cost of baggage fees when comparing ticket prices is a classic error, particularly with budget airlines. A seemingly cheaper ticket can end up being more expensive once all the necessary baggage fees are added. Always calculate the total cost, including carry-on, personal item, and checked bag fees, before making your booking decision.

Always pack a small, essential kit of items you might need during the flight in your personal item.

Being aware of these common mistakes allows you to proactively avoid them. A little preparation and attention to detail can save you time, money, and stress, ensuring your domestic flight experience is as smooth as possible.

Travel Tips for Ensuring Compliance

What are some practical tips for ensuring compliance with domestic flight baggage allowances in the USA?

To ensure compliance with domestic flight baggage rules in the USA, the most effective approach is diligent preparation and a thorough understanding of your airline's specific policies. Begin by visiting your airline's official website well in advance of your travel date. Navigate to their baggage section to find the most up-to-date information on carry-on, personal item, and checked baggage dimensions, weight limits, and associated fees. Print or save a screenshot of this information for easy reference.

Invest in luggage that meets standard carry-on dimensions. Many manufacturers now produce carry-on sized bags that are specifically designed to comply with the most common airline regulations. Using a collapsible or soft-sided bag can also offer more flexibility if you find yourself slightly over the dimension limit when packed. For checked baggage, consider using a luggage scale at home to weigh your bags before you leave for the airport. This simple tool can prevent costly overweight fees, which can often be more expensive than the cost of the bag itself.

When packing, be strategic about what goes into your carry-on versus your checked bags. Essential items, medications, valuables, and items you'll need during the flight should always be in your carry-on or personal item. If you are planning to purchase items at your destination that will increase your luggage volume for the return trip, factor this into your packing strategy. Consider bringing a foldable duffel bag that can be packed flat in your luggage and used for souvenirs or overflow items on the way back.

Smart Packing for Different Needs

If you're traveling with children, familiarize yourself with the airline's policies regarding strollers, car seats, and diaper bags. Most airlines allow these items with specific allowances, but understanding the process for gate-checking versus counter-checking can save you time at the airport. For infants, packing a diaper bag with essentials is crucial, and ensuring it meets the personal item size limits is key.

For electronics and batteries, make sure any portable chargers or power banks meet the airline's Watt-hour (Wh) or milliampere-hour (mAh) limits, and that they are packed in your carry-on luggage. Keep all electronic devices in a readily accessible place in your carry-on, as you may need to remove them for separate screening at security. Ensure that any laptops or tablets are charged and can be powered on if requested by TSA agents.

Always double-check your airline's website for any updates to their baggage policy before your flight.

By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of encountering unexpected baggage fees or issues at the airport. A well-prepared traveler is a less stressed traveler, and adherence to baggage rules is a fundamental aspect of that preparation.

The Role of the TSA and Airline Policies

How do the TSA's regulations interact with airline baggage policies for domestic flights in the USA?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) primarily focuses on security and safety, establishing the rules for what can and cannot be brought through security checkpoints and onto an aircraft. Their regulations cover prohibited items, liquids, and the general screening process. However, the TSA does not dictate the specific size, weight, or number of bags airlines are allowed to permit for carry-on or checked luggage. That aspect falls under the purview of individual airlines.

Think of the TSA as setting the baseline for safety, while airlines build upon that with their own operational and commercial policies. For instance, the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids (3.4 oz containers, 1 quart-sized bag, 1 bag per passenger) is a security measure to prevent liquids from posing a threat. Beyond that, it is up to the airline to decide how many bags you can bring into the cabin and how much they can weigh, primarily to manage cabin space and boarding efficiency. Similarly, airlines set the rules for checked baggage weight and dimensions, which are tied to the physical capacity of the aircraft's cargo hold and operational considerations.

Therefore, a bag that is permitted through TSA security as a carry-on might still be too large or too heavy for your specific airline's cabin allowance. This is why it's critical to consult your airline's policy. The TSA will screen your bag for security threats, but the airline will enforce its own baggage size, weight, and quantity limits, often at the departure gate or check-in counter, where they can levy fees.

Key Differences and Synergies

The synergy between TSA rules and airline policies lies in ensuring both safety and a manageable travel experience. The TSA ensures that dangerous items do not get onto the plane, while airlines manage the physical constraints of the aircraft and their revenue models. For example, the TSA may allow a laptop in a laptop bag as a carry-on, but the airline will have its own rules about whether that laptop bag counts as your primary carry-on or a free personal item. Some airlines might even restrict certain types of batteries that the TSA permits if they deem them a risk in their specific cabin environment.

When you are at the airport, you will first encounter TSA security, where your bags are screened. After passing through security, you then proceed to your airline's gate, where your carry-on and personal item may be inspected for compliance with their size and weight regulations. If your bag is found to be non-compliant by the airline at this stage, you will likely be required to check it and pay the applicable fees, which are often higher at the gate than if paid in advance.

Always distinguish between TSA security regulations and individual airline baggage policies.

Understanding this distinction is fundamental to avoiding confusion and unexpected costs. While the TSA prioritizes safety, airlines focus on the practicalities of their operations and services, including how much baggage you can bring and at what cost.