What happens if you check luggage at the airport and the bag weighs too much?

If a bag is too big or too heavy, according to airline standard, an added on fee must be paid in order to transport the bag. Bags that weigh more than 70 lbs. usually end up costing extra in order to transport them, according to Delta Air Lines.

As stated by Southwest Airlines, any piece of luggage weighing more than 100 lbs. or exceeding a certain length depending on the airline, will be charged a set fee, and the bag must be shipped as air cargo instead of regular luggage. However, this rule does not apply for most airlines to active members of the military.