Global Bag Tag System and Method of Use

Abstract

A global bag tag system and method of use are provided, the method including: registering, by at least one of at least one processor, a vehicle license plate number (VLPN) of a vehicle associated with a registered traveler in a database that stores a traveler profile; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, hotel reservation information associated with the registered traveler from a first computing system associated with a hotel reservation system, the hotel reservation information corresponding to a time slot; receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information representative of the received VLPN from a second computing system associated with parking associated with the hotel reservation information within the time slot; and, based on the registered VLPN in the traveler profile matching the information representative of the received VLPN, causing, by at least one of the at least one processor, payment to a recipient for the parking using a payment method of record in the traveler profile.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 598,824, filed November 14, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 543,667, filed October 11, 2023. This application is also a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 418,972, filed January 22, 2024, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 197,840, filed May 16, 2023.

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 337,288, filed June 19, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 311,566, filed May 3, 2023, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 201,908, filed May 25, 2023 (now U.S. Patent No. 11,881,057). U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 337,288, filed February 1, 2023, as a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 104,359 (now U.S. Patent No. 11,682,241), and U.S. Patent Application Nos. 18 / 332,377, 18 / 201,908, and 18 / 311,566, as continuations directly claiming the benefit of priority thereto; for the avoidance of doubt, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 311,566 is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 104,359.

[0003] This application also claims the benefit of priority to the following co-pending applications: International Applications PCT / US2024 / 013083, PCT / US24 / 13221 and PCT / US24 / 13226, all filed January 26, 2024; and International Applications PCT / US2024 / 012226 and PCT / US2024 / 012231, both filed January 19, 2024. International applications PCT / US24 / 13257, PCT / US24 / 13258, PCT / US24 / 13259, PCT / US24 / 13261, PCT / US24 / 13262 and PCT / US24 / 13263, filed on the 27th, and international applications PCT / US24 / 13594, PCT / US24 / 13597 and PCT / US24 / 13599, all filed on January 30, 2024.

[0004] This application is also a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to and benefit of the following co-pending applications: U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 529,705, filed December 5, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application Nos. 18 / 421,581, 18 / 421,595, and 18 / 421,601, all filed January 24, 2024, which are continuations of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 337,288; U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 418,972, filed January 22, 2024; U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 406 / 785, filed January 8, 2024; and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 418,972, filed January 22, 2024, which are continuations of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 406 / 785, all filed November 20, 2023. Nos. 18 / 514,015, 18 / 514,826, 18 / 514,195, 18 / 514,877, 18 / 514,914, 18 / 514,937, 18 / 514,924, 18 / 514,295, 18 / 515,004, 18 / 514,369, and 18 / 515,060, all filed on January 30, 2024, and U.S. patent applications Serial Nos. 18 / 427,323, 18 / 427,396, 18 / 427,438, 18 / 427,469, and 18 / 427,516.

[0005] All of the above are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0006] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments relate to the field of baggage handling and delivery, and more particularly to a global bag tag system and method of use. [Background technology]

[0007] Millions of passengers travel daily using various modes of transportation. When a family or group travels, their luggage can affect the travel experience and limit short excursions at their destination. A challenge that affects the travel experience is the handling of luggage. Families often have difficulty fitting all family members and their luggage into one vehicle (i.e., a rental car or a taxi). Another challenge for traveling families can be the safety of their luggage before arriving at a lodging facility or cruise ship, for example, being left unattended while experiencing an excursion.

[0008] The accommodation or resort may store luggage until you officially check in to the accommodation. However, arrival at the accommodation or resort may not be convenient for exploring before check-in. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes registering, by at least one of the at least one processor, a vehicle license plate number (VLPN) of a vehicle associated with a registered traveler in a database that stores a traveler profile; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, hotel reservation information associated with the registered traveler from a first computing system associated with a hotel reservation system, the hotel reservation information corresponding to a time slot; receiving, by the at least one of the at least one processor, information representative of the received VLPN from a second computing system associated with parking associated with the hotel reservation information within the time slot; and causing, by the at least one of the at least one processor, payment to a payee for the parking using a payment method of record in the traveler profile based on the registered VLPN in the traveler profile matching the information representative of the received VLPN.

[0010] The vehicle may include either a rental vehicle or a vehicle owned by a registered traveler.

[0011] The vehicle may be a rental car, and registering the VLPN may include receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an image of a license plate having image data representing digits of the registered VLPN, and storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the digits of the registered VLPN.

[0012] The method may further include accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, preferred multi-mode (PMM) travel information stored in the traveler profile, where the PMM travel information may include one or more travel management system numbers, travel membership numbers, or online travel booking engine numbers of the registered traveler.

[0013] The PMM travel information may include one or more of a hotel membership number for a hotel company and a car rental membership number for a car rental company.

[0014] Obtaining the hotel reservation information may include querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a hotel reservation system associated with the hotel company for the hotel reservation information.

[0015] The method may further include querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car reservation system associated with the rental car company for the rental car reservation, and obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car VLPN.

[0016] Registering the VLPN may include registering, by at least one of the at least one processor, the registered traveler for contactless pay parking.

[0017] The method may further include storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, in a traveler profile, a baggage item of the registered traveler and a global multi-modal travel bag tag number associated with the registered traveler.

[0018] The method may further include matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, the B-type message against registered travelers in a master traveler manifest, where the master traveler manifest may include registered traveler records created from traveler profiles, and determining, by the at least one of the at least one processor, that the B-type message is a terminal baggage source message to a destination airport, where the received information represents a received VLPN associated with hotel reservation information proximate to the destination airport.

[0019] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system comprises at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to register a vehicle license plate number (VLPN) of a vehicle associated with a registered traveler in a database that stores a traveler profile; retrieve hotel reservation information associated with the registered traveler from a first computing system associated with a hotel reservation system, the hotel reservation information corresponding to a time slot; receive information representing the received VLPN from a second computing system associated with parking associated with the hotel reservation information within the time slot; and cause payment to a payee for the parking using a payment method of record in the traveler profile based on the registered VLPN in the traveler profile that matches the information representing the received VLPN.

[0020] The vehicle may include either a rental vehicle or a vehicle owned by a registered traveler.

[0021] The vehicle may be a rental car, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to register a VLPN by receiving an image of a license plate having image data representing the digits of the registered VLPN, and to store the digits of the registered VLPN.

[0022] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to access preferred multi-modal (PMM) travel information stored in the traveler profile, where the PMM travel information may include one or more travel management system numbers, travel membership numbers, or online travel booking engine numbers of the registered traveler.

[0023] The PMM travel information may include one or more of a hotel membership number for a hotel company and a car rental membership number for a car rental company.

[0024] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to obtain hotel reservation information by querying a hotel reservation system associated with the hotel company for the hotel reservation information.

[0025] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to query a rental car reservation system associated with the rental car company for the rental car reservation and to obtain a rental car VLPN.

[0026] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to register the VLPN by registering the registered traveler for contactless pay parking.

[0027] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to store, in a traveler profile, a baggage item of the registered traveler and a global multi-modal travel bag tag number associated with the registered traveler.

[0028] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to match the B-type message against registered travelers in a master traveler manifest, which may include registered traveler records created from traveler profiles, and determine that the B-type message is a terminal baggage source message to a destination airport, wherein the received information represents a received VLPN associated with hotel reservation information proximate to the destination airport.

[0029] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method including: registering, by at least one of the at least one processor, a vehicle license plate number (VLPN) of a vehicle associated with a registered traveler in a database that stores a traveler profile; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, hotel reservation information associated with the registered traveler from a first computing system associated with a hotel reservation system, the hotel reservation information corresponding to a time slot; receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information representing a received VLPN from a second computing system associated with parking associated with the hotel reservation information within the time slot; and, based on a registered VLPN in the traveler profile that matches the information representing the received VLPN, causing, by the at least one of the at least one processor, payment to a payee for the parking using a payment method of record in the traveler profile.

[0030] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the vehicle may include one of a rental car or a vehicle owned by a registered traveler.

[0031] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the vehicle may be a rental car, and registering the VLPN may include receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an image of a license plate having image data representing digits of the registered VLPN, and storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the digits of the registered VLPN.

[0032] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, preferred multi-mode (PMM) travel information stored in the traveler profile, where the PMM travel information may include one or more travel management system numbers, travel membership numbers, or online travel booking engine numbers of the registered traveler.

[0033] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the PMM travel information may include one or more of a hotel membership number for a hotel company and a rental car membership number for a rental car company.

[0034] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, obtaining the hotel reservation information may include querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a hotel reservation system associated with the hotel company for the hotel reservation information.

[0035] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car reservation system associated with a rental car company for the rental car reservation, and obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car VLPN.

[0036] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, registering the VLPN may include, by at least one of the at least one processor, registering the registered traveler for contactless pay parking.

[0037] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage item of the registered traveler and a global multi-modal travel bag tag number associated with the registered traveler in a traveler profile.

[0038] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, the B-type message against registered travelers in a master traveler manifest, which may include registered traveler records created from traveler profiles, and determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the B-type message is a terminal baggage source message to a destination airport, wherein the received information represents a received VLPN associated with hotel reservation information proximate to the destination airport.

[0039] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number for a baggage item of a registered passenger, the GMMT bag tag number including a permanently assigned license plate that complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period; generating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the GMMT bag tag number and a passenger name of the registered passenger; and forming, by a printing device, a GMMT code representation representing the GMMT bag tag number on a substrate configured to be affixed to the baggage item.

[0040] The method may further include receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, current itinerary information representing at least one travel membership number of the registered passenger, a passenger name record (PNR) number of the registered passenger, or an itinerary confirmation (IC) number of the registered passenger, and constructing, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage itinerary record based on the current itinerary information for the registered passenger's baggage items, the baggage itinerary record including a baggage delivery location and a baggage pick-up location.

[0041] The method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a number of baggage items associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information, and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, a GMMT bag tag number to each baggage item associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information.

[0042] The method may further include accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database associated with the at least one travel membership number, PNR number, or IC number to obtain other passenger names associated with the registered passenger's current itinerary information, and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number with the other passenger names associated with the current itinerary information.

[0043] Constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record based on current journey information may include constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record based on current journey information for baggage items in other passenger names.

[0044] The method may further include receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, preferred multi-mode (PMM) movement information from a computing device of a registered passenger, and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database of stored passenger information associated with the baggage item that identifies the PMM movement information linked to a GMMT bag tag number, wherein generating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number may further include generating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, at least one PMM movement code.

[0045] Forming a GMMT code representation on the substrate by the printing device may further include forming by the printing device at least one PMM transfer code representation representing at least one PMM transfer code subsequent to or adjacent to the GMMT code representation on the substrate.

[0046] The PMM travel information may include one or more travel management system numbers of the registered passenger or an online travel booking engine number of the registered passenger.

[0047] The PMM travel information may include one or more travel membership numbers for registered passengers.

[0048] The one or more travel membership numbers may include one or more of a frequent flyer number for an airline, a hotel membership number for a hotel company, a car rental membership number for a car rental company, and a cruise line membership number for a cruise line company.

[0049] The method may further include receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, current journey information representing a travel member number, a PNR number, or an itinerary confirmation number, and constructing, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage movement journey record based on the PMM movement information and the current journey information.

[0050] Constructing the baggage itinerary record based on the PMM movement information may include one or more of: querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the airline for a destination airport location for the baggage itinerary; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the hotel company for a hotel reservation location for the baggage itinerary; and querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the cruise line company for a cruise reservation location for the baggage itinerary; and the method may further include, by at least one of the at least one processor, entering one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location into the baggage itinerary record.

[0051] The period may be renewable.

[0052] The predetermined validity period may be the same as the lifespan of the registered passenger.

[0053] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to generate a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number for a registered passenger's baggage item, the GMMT bag tag number including a permanently assigned license plate that complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period; generate a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the GMMT bag tag number and the registered passenger's passenger name; and cause a printing device to form a GMMT code representation representing the GMMT bag tag number on a substrate to be affixed to the baggage item.

[0054] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive current itinerary information representing at least one travel membership number of the registered passenger, a passenger name record (PNR) number of the registered passenger, or an itinerary confirmation (IC) number of the registered passenger, and construct a baggage itinerary record based on the current itinerary information for the registered passenger's baggage items, where the baggage itinerary record may include a baggage delivery location and a baggage collection location.

[0055] At least one processor of the system may be configured to execute at least one instruction to determine the number of baggage items associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information, and to link a GMMT bag tag number to each baggage item associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information.

[0056] At least one processor of the system may be configured to execute at least one instruction to access a database associated with at least one travel member number, PNR number, or IC number to obtain other passenger names associated with the registered passenger's current itinerary information, and to link the GMMT bag tag number with the other passenger names associated with the current itinerary information.

[0057] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to construct a baggage journey record based on current journey information for baggage items in other passenger names.

[0058] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive priority multi-mode (PMM) movement information from a registered passenger's computing device, generate a database of stored passenger information associated with a baggage item that identifies PMM movement information linked to a GMMT bag tag number, and generate at least one PMM movement code concurrently with generating the GMMT bag tag number.

[0059] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to cause the printing device to form at least one PMM transfer code representation representing the at least one PMM transfer code subsequent to or adjacent to the GMMT code representation on the substrate.

[0060] The PMM travel information may include one or more travel management system numbers of the registered passenger or an online travel booking engine number of the registered passenger.

[0061] The PMM travel information may include one or more travel membership numbers for registered passengers.

[0062] The one or more travel membership numbers may include one or more of a frequent flyer number for an airline, a hotel membership number for a hotel company, a car rental membership number for a car rental company, and a cruise line membership number for a cruise line company.

[0063] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive current journey information representing at least one travel member number, PNR number, or itinerary confirmation number, and to construct a baggage movement journey record based on the PMM movement information and the current journey information.

[0064] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to construct a baggage itinerary record based on the PMM movement information by querying a reservation system associated with the airline for a destination airport location for the baggage itinerary, querying a reservation system associated with the hotel company for a hotel reservation location for the baggage itinerary, and querying a reservation system associated with the cruise line company for a cruise reservation location for the baggage itinerary, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to enter one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location into the baggage itinerary record.

[0065] The period may be renewable.

[0066] The predetermined validity period may be the same as the lifespan of the registered passenger.

[0067] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, which when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method including generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number for a baggage item of a registered passenger, the GMMT bag tag number including a permanently assigned license plate that complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period; generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the GMMT bag tag number and a passenger name of the registered passenger; and forming, by a printing device, a GMMT code representation representing the GMMT bag tag number on a substrate configured to be affixed to the baggage item.

[0068] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include receiving, by a processor, current itinerary information representing at least one travel membership number of a registered passenger, a passenger name record (PNR) number of the registered passenger, or an itinerary confirmation (IC) number of the registered passenger, and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record based on the current itinerary information for the registered passenger's baggage items, where the baggage journey record may include a baggage delivery location and a baggage pick-up location.

[0069] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a number of baggage items associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information, and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, a GMMT bag tag number to each registered baggage item of the registered passenger for the current journey information.

[0070] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database associated with the at least one travel membership number, PNR number, or IC number to obtain other passenger names associated with the registered passenger's current itinerary information, and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number with the other passenger names associated with the current itinerary information.

[0071] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record based on current journey information may include constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record based on current journey information for baggage items in other passenger names.

[0072] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, priority multi-mode (PMM) movement information from a registered passenger's computing device, and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database of stored passenger information associated with the baggage item that identifies the PMM movement information linked to a GMMT bag tag number, wherein generating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number may further include generating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, at least one PMM movement code.

[0073] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, forming, by the printing device, a GMMT code representation on the substrate may further include forming, by the printing device, at least one PMM transfer code representation representing a PMM transfer code, subsequent to or adjacent to the GMMT code representation on the substrate.

[0074] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the PMM travel information may include one or more travel management system numbers of the registered passenger or an online travel booking engine number of the registered passenger.

[0075] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the PMM travel information may include one or more travel membership numbers of registered passengers.

[0076] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the one or more travel membership numbers may include one or more of a frequent flyer number of an airline, a hotel membership number of a hotel company, a rental car membership number of a rental car company, and a cruise line membership number of a cruise line company.

[0077] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, current journey information representing at least one travel member number, PNR number, or itinerary confirmation number, and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage movement journey record based on the PMM movement information and the current journey information.

[0078] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, constructing a baggage itinerary record based on the PMM movement information may include one or more of: querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the airline for a destination airport location for the baggage itinerary; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a hotel company for a hotel reservation location for the baggage itinerary; and querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a cruise line company for a cruise reservation location for the baggage itinerary; and the method may further include, by at least one of the at least one processor, entering one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location into the baggage itinerary record.

[0079] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the period of time may be renewable.

[0080] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the predetermined validity period may be the same as the lifespan of the registered passenger.

[0081] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code representation from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of a registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger, the GMMT code representation being an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant license plate; accessing, by a first processor, from a computer system associated with a multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the registered passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; receiving, by the first processor, information confirming the identity of the registered passenger associated with the PNR number; and linking, by at least one second processor in communication with the first processor, the GTE-BSM of the registered passenger to each different Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) associated with each different baggage item associated with the travel passenger name associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM.

[0082] The method may further include causing at least one of the at least one second processor to check in a first baggage item of the registered passenger within a check-in window for a segment of travel on the air carrier, and causing at least one of the at least one second processor to create an origin IATA license plate for the first baggage item associated with the segment of travel on the air carrier.

[0083] Each A-BSM may be an IATA compliant Baggage Source Message (BSM).

[0084] The method may further include accessing, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a database associated with the PNR number to obtain names of unregistered passengers associated with the registered passenger's current itinerary information; generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, separate temporary baggage source messages (T-BSMs) corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger based on the PNR number; and linking the separate T-BSMs corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger to the GTE-BSM.

[0085] The method may further include checking in, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a different baggage item for each unregistered passenger identified in the database associated with the PNR number, where each different baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger has a different A-BSM, and causing, by the at least one of the at least one second processor, a printing device to print an IATA baggage tag with the created IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the unregistered passenger.

[0086] Receiving information confirming the identity of the registered passenger by the first processor may include capturing an image of the registered passenger by an imaging device in communication with the first processor, and performing facial recognition based on the image of the registered passenger and a stored image of the registered passenger.

[0087] The method may further include capturing, by an imaging device in communication with the first processor, an image of each separate baggage item in the other traveling passenger name associated with the PNR number prior to departure from the baggage claim location.

[0088] The method may further include, prior to the electronically obtaining, registering the passenger with the multi-mode baggage handling service, by at least one of the at least one second processor, and generating, by the at least one of the at least one second processor, a GTE-BSM including a passenger name and a unique identifier for the registered passenger, where the unique identifier may include a GMMT bag tag number representing a GMMT code designation, the GMMT bag tag number including a permanently assigned license plate conforming to an IATA license plate format for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period.

[0089] The method may further include automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number.

[0090] The term may be renewable, and the predetermined validity period may range from 1 month to 10 years or from 1 month to 20 years.

[0091] The predetermined validity period may be the same as the lifespan of the registered passenger.

[0092] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a system includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction, the at least one processor executing the at least one instruction to retrieve, from at least one electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code designation associated with a Global Bag Tag on a first baggage item of a registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger, the GMMT code designation being an International Air Transport Association (IATA) conformance license. The system is configured to create, from a computer system associated with the multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) that includes a registered passenger's Passenger Name Record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record, receive information confirming the identity of the registered passenger associated with the PNR number, and link the registered passenger's GTE-BSM to each different Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) for each different baggage item associated with the traveling passenger name associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM.

[0093] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to check in a first baggage item of the registered passenger within a check-in window for a segment of travel on the air carrier, and to generate an origin IATA license plate for the first baggage item associated with the segment of travel on the air carrier.

[0094] Each A-BSM is an IATA compliant Baggage Source Message (BSM).

[0095] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to access a database associated with a PNR number for passenger names of unregistered passengers associated with current itinerary information of registered passengers, generate separate temporary baggage source messages (T-BSMs) corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger based on the PNR number, and link the separate T-BSMs corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger to the GTE-BSM.

[0096] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to check in each separate baggage item of the unregistered passenger identified in the database associated with the PNR number, and to cause the printing device to print an IATA baggage bag tag having the generated IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the unregistered passenger.

[0097] The information verifying the identity of the registered passenger may include an image of the registered passenger captured by an imaging device in communication with the at least one processor, and the at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to perform facial recognition based on the image of the registered passenger and a stored image of the registered passenger.

[0098] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive, from an imaging device in communication with the at least one processor, a captured image of each baggage item in a traveling passenger name associated with the PNR number prior to departure from the baggage claim location.

[0099] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to, prior to obtaining the electronic representation of the GMMT, execute at least one instruction to register the passenger for the multi-mode baggage handling service and generate a GTE-BSM including a passenger name and a unique identifier for the registered passenger, where the unique identifier may include a GMMT bag tag number representing a GMMT code designation, where the GMMT bag tag number may include a permanently assigned license plate conforming to an IATA license plate format for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period.

[0100] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to automatically create a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number.

[0101] The term may be renewable, and the predetermined validity period may range from 1 month to 10 years or from 1 month to 20 years.

[0102] The predetermined validity period may be the same as the lifespan of the registered passenger.

[0103] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, which when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: retrieve, from at least one electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code representation from a substrate associated with a Global Bag Tag on a first baggage item of a registered passenger, the GMMT code representation being an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant license plate, to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger; and performing a method including accessing, from the system, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including a passenger name record (PNR) number of a registered passenger using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; receiving, by a first processor, information confirming the identity of the registered passenger associated with the PNR number; and linking, by at least one second processor in communication with the first processor, the GTE-BSM of the registered passenger to each different airline baggage source message (A-BSM) associated with each different baggage item associated with the travel passenger name associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM.

[0104] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include causing at least one of the at least one second processor to check in a first baggage item of the registered passenger for a segment of travel on the air carrier within a check-in window, and causing at least one of the at least one second processor to generate an origin IATA license plate for the first baggage item associated with the segment of travel on the air carrier.

[0105] For a method performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, each A-BSM may be an IATA-compliant Baggage Source Message (BSM).

[0106] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include: accessing, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a database associated with the PNR number to obtain names of unregistered passengers associated with the registered passenger's current itinerary information; generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, separate temporary baggage source messages (T-BSMs) corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger based on the PNR number; and linking the separate T-BSMs corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger to the GTE-BSM.

[0107] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include checking in, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger identified in the database associated with the PNR number, wherein each separate baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger has a different A-BSM, and causing, by the at least one of the at least one second processor, a printing device to print an IATA baggage tag having the created IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the unregistered passenger.

[0108] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, receiving information confirming the identity of the registered passenger by the first processor may include receiving a captured image of the registered passenger from an imaging device in communication with the first processor, and performing facial recognition based on the captured image of the registered passenger and the stored image of the registered passenger.

[0109] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include receiving, from an imaging device in communication with the first processor, captured images of each distinct baggage item for the traveling passenger name associated with the PNR number prior to departure from the baggage claim location.

[0110] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, prior to obtaining, registering, by at least one of the at least one second processor, the passenger with the multi-mode baggage handling service, and generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a GTE-BSM including a passenger name and a unique identifier for the registered passenger, where the unique identifier may include a GMMT bag tag number representing a GMMT code designation, where the GMMT bag tag number may include a permanently assigned license plate conforming to an IATA license plate format for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period.

[0111] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number.

[0112] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the period may be renewable, and the predetermined valid period may range from 1 month to 10 years or from 1 month to 20 years.

[0113] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the predetermined validity period may be the same as the lifespan of the registered passenger.

[0114] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to link a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to at least one travel membership number of a registered passenger to access reservation information associated with at least one travel vehicle associated with the at least one travel membership number, collect reservation information for a current journey of at least one baggage item traveling independently or in parallel with the registered passenger in a registered passenger profile linked to the GMMT bag tag number, and construct a Baggage Travel Journey Record (BTJR) for pickup and delivery of the at least one baggage item based on the collected reservation information, wherein the BTJR is linked to the GMMT bag tag number.

[0115] The system may further include an electronic capture device configured to retrieve an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number on a substrate of a permanent bag tag on a first of the at least one baggage item, and the at least one processor may be configured to execute at least one instruction to retrieve the electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number from the electronic capture device, retrieve information from at least one baggage handling field of a BTJR associated with the GMMT bag tag number, and display the retrieved information on a display device.

[0116] The permanent bag tag may include a GMMT code designation including a GMMT bag tag number, which may match an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate.

[0117] The GMMT code representation may include at least one code representing at least one travel membership number.

[0118] The at least one travel membership number may include one or more of a frequent flyer number of an airline, a hotel membership number of a hotel company, a car rental membership number of a car rental company, or a cruise line membership number of a cruise line company.

[0119] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to collect reservation information by doing one or more of: querying a reservation system associated with an airline for a destination airport location for the baggage leg; querying a reservation system associated with a hotel company for a hotel booking location for the baggage leg; or querying a reservation system associated with a cruise line company for a cruise booking location for the baggage leg; and inputting one or more of the destination airport location, hotel booking location, or cruise booking location into the BTJR.

[0120] The system may further include an electronic capture device configured to obtain an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number from a permanent bag tag on a first of the at least one baggage item, and to transmit the electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number, location data, and a timestamp of the electronic capture device to the registered passenger profile, wherein the location data may represent a current location of the first baggage item at the time the GMMT bag tag number is obtained.

[0121] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to perform data analysis to push advertisements to mobile communication devices associated with registered passengers.

[0122] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to link the GMMT bag tag number to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number for a travel leg in the current travel leg and to link the GMMT bag tag number to a passenger name record (PNR) number in a reservation system for the travel leg associated with the current travel leg.

[0123] The at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to assign a tracking device to a first luggage item of the at least one luggage item of the registered passenger.

[0124] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to at least one travel membership number of a registered passenger to access reservation information associated with at least one travel vehicle associated with the at least one travel membership number; collecting, by at least one of the at least one processor, reservation information for a current travel leg of at least one baggage item traveling independently or in parallel with the registered passenger in a registered passenger profile linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and constructing, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a Baggage Travel Journey Record (BTJR) for pickup and delivery of the at least one baggage item based on the collected reservation information, wherein the BTJR is linked to the GMMT bag tag number.

[0125] The method may further include obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor from the electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number on the permanent bag tag; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from at least one baggage handling field of the BTJR associated with the GMMT bag tag number; and causing, by the at least one of the at least one processor, the retrieved information on a display device.

[0126] The permanent bag tag may include a GMMT code designation including a GMMT bag tag number, which may match an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate.

[0127] The GMMT code representation may include at least one code representing at least one travel membership number.

[0128] The at least one travel membership number may include one or more of a frequent flyer number of an airline, a hotel membership number of a hotel company, a car rental membership number of a car rental company, or a cruise line membership number of a cruise line company.

[0129] Gathering the booking information may include querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the airline for a destination airport location for the baggage leg; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a hotel company for a hotel booking location for the baggage leg; or querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a cruise line company for a cruise booking location for the baggage leg; and the method may further include inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel booking location, or the cruise booking location into the BTJR.

[0130] The method may further include acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number collected by the electronic capture device, wherein the GMMT bag tag number may be associated with a permanent bag tag on a first baggage item of the at least one baggage item of the registered passenger, location data, and a timestamp of the electronic capture device relative to the registered passenger profile, wherein the location data may represent a current location of the first baggage item at the time the GMMT bag tag number is acquired.

[0131] The method may further include performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a data analysis to push advertisements to mobile communication devices associated with the registered passengers.

[0132] The method may further include linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number for a travel leg in the current travel leg, and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to a passenger name record (PNR) number in a reservation system for the travel leg associated with the current travel leg.

[0133] The method may further include assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a first luggage item of the at least one luggage item of the registered passenger.

[0134] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, which when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method including: linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to at least one travel membership number of a registered passenger to access reservation information associated with at least one travel vehicle associated with the at least one travel membership number; collecting, by at least one of the at least one processor, reservation information for a current journey of at least one baggage item traveling independently or in parallel with the registered passenger in a registered passenger profile linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Baggage Travel Journey Record (BTJR) for pickup and delivery of the at least one baggage item based on the collected reservation information, wherein the BTJR is linked to the GMMT bag tag number.

[0135] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number on the permanent bag tag from an electronic acquisition device; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from at least one baggage handling field of the BTJR associated with the GMMT bag tag number; and causing, by the at least one of the at least one processor, to display the retrieved information on a display device.

[0136] With respect to a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the permanent bag tag may include a GMMT code indicia including a GMMT bag tag number, and the GMMT bag tag number may match an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate.

[0137] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the GMMT code representation may include at least one code that may represent at least one travel membership number.

[0138] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the at least one travel membership number may include one or more of a frequent flyer number of an airline, a hotel membership number of a hotel company, a rental car membership number of a rental car company, or a cruise line membership number of a cruise line company.

[0139] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, collecting booking information may include querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with an airline for a destination airport location for the baggage leg; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a hotel company for a hotel booking location for the baggage leg; or querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a cruise line company for a cruise booking location for the baggage leg; and the method may further include inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel booking location, or the cruise booking location into the BTJR.

[0140] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, an electronic representation of a GMMT bag tag number acquired by an electronic acquisition device, wherein the GMMT bag tag number may be associated with a permanent bag tag on a first baggage item of the at least one baggage item of the registered passenger, location data, and a timestamp of the electronic acquisition device relative to the registered passenger profile, and the location data may represent a current location of the first baggage item at the time the GMMT bag tag number is acquired.

[0141] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, data analysis to push advertisements to mobile communication devices associated with the registered passengers.

[0142] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number for a travel leg in the current travel leg, and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to a passenger booking record (PNR) number in a reservation system for the travel leg associated with the current travel leg.

[0143] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a first baggage item of the at least one baggage item of the registered passenger.

[0144] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes: acquiring, by an electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code display from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of a registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a first computer system associated with the multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the registered passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for a segment of travel of the registered passenger with a specified mobile carrier using information associated with the PNR number; and checking in, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item with the specified mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the segment of travel.

[0145] The method may further include verifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, the identity of the registered passenger prior to checking in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item.

[0146] The method may further include generating and transmitting, by the electronic capture device, an electronic communication to a first computer system, where the electronic communication may include tracking information including geographic location data, time, date, and GMMT data records associated with the electronic capture device, and recording, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking information in a registered passenger movement history database coupled to the first computer system.

[0147] The specified mobile carrier may be an airline carrier, and the retrieved check-in information may include the return leg flight time of the return flight.

[0148] The method may further include, before retrieving the check-in information, electronically capturing, by an electronic capture device, a representation of an origin airline bag tag identifier (A-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from the origin air carrier that is on the first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital A-BTI data record linked to the origin air carrier, wherein the A-BTI may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate, and the digital A-BTI data record represents the IATA license plate.

[0149] The method may further include, during check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return flight for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger from a second computer system associated with the airline carrier, and causing a printer to print, for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger, new bag tags for the return flight that match the IATA license plate.

[0150] The method may further include obtaining, during check-in, boarding pass information for the registered passenger's return flight, and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the registered passenger.

[0151] The method may further include creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a digital A-BTI data record, and automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital A-BTI data record and the PNR number, where the baggage manifest record may include the retrieved check-in information.

[0152] The method may further include automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number, wherein the baggage manifest record may include data for check-in of the baggage item for a leg of travel with a designated mobile carrier.

[0153] The designated mobile carrier may include one of a bus, a train, a cruise ship, a ferry, or an airplane.

[0154] The method may further include accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, data in a database associated with the PNR using the PNR number of the registered passenger; identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more unregistered passengers traveling on the return travel leg based on the accessed data; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the return travel leg of each of the one or more unregistered passengers using information associated with the data in the PNR; and checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, each baggage item into a designated return travel carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0155] The designated return mobile carrier may include an air mobile carrier, and the check-in information may include return flight information, including a return flight time, for the return flight.

[0156] The method may further include, during check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return leg of each checked-in baggage item for each of the one or more unregistered passengers from a second computer system associated with the air mobile carrier, and causing a printer to print, for each checked-in baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers, a new bag tag for the return leg that matches the IATA license plate.

[0157] The method may further include obtaining, during check-in, boarding pass information for a return flight for each of the one or more unregistered passengers, and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0158] The method may further include assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a first baggage item of the registered passenger, and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device with the first baggage item of the registered passenger.

[0159] Assigning may include programming the GMMT code designation or PNR number into the tracking device, and the method may further include locating the first baggage item using the tracking device by at least one of the at least one processor.

[0160] The method may further include assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to each baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers listed in the PNR database associated with the PNR number, and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device to each baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0161] The tracking device may be temporarily assigned.

[0162] The tracking device may be permanently assigned, and the method may further include locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first package item using the tracking device.

[0163] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to: acquire, from at least one electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code indication from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of a registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger; access, from a first computer system associated with the multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the registered passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; retrieve check-in information for the registered passenger's travel segment with a specified travel carrier using information associated with the PNR number; and check-in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item to the specified travel carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the travel segment.

[0164] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to verify the identity of the registered passenger before checking in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item.

[0165] The system may further include at least one electronic capture device, and the at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to generate and transmit an electronic communication by the at least one electronic capture device and send the electronic communication to a first computer system, where the electronic communication may include tracking information including geographic location data, time, date, and GMMT data records associated with the electronic capture device, and to record the tracking information in a movement history database of registered passengers coupled to the first computer system.

[0166] The specified mobile carrier may be an airline carrier, and the retrieved check-in information may include the return leg flight time of the return flight.

[0167] The system may further include at least one electronic capture device, and the at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to electronically capture, by the at least one electronic capture device, a representation of an origin airline bag tag identifier (A-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from the origin air carrier that is on the first baggage item of the registered passenger before retrieving the check-in information, to create a digital A-BTI data record linked to the origin air carrier, wherein the A-BTI may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate, and the digital A-BTI data record represents the IATA license plate.

[0168] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to obtain, during check-in, airline bag tag information for the return flight for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger from a second computer system associated with the airline carrier, and to cause a printer to print, for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger, new bag tags for the return flight that match the IATA license plate.

[0169] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to obtain boarding pass information for a return flight of the registered passenger during check-in and to communicate the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the registered passenger.

[0170] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to create a digital A-BTI data record and to automatically create a baggage manifest record from the digital A-BTI data record and the PNR number, where the baggage manifest record may include the retrieved check-in information.

[0171] The system may further include automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number, wherein the baggage manifest record may include data for check-in of the baggage item's travel leg with the designated mobile carrier.

[0172] The designated mobile carrier may include one of a bus, a train, a cruise ship, a ferry, or an airplane.

[0173] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to use the PNR number of the registered passenger to access data in a database associated with the PNR; identify one or more unregistered passengers traveling on the return travel leg based on the accessed data; retrieve check-in information for the return travel leg of each of the one or more unregistered passengers using information associated with the data in the PNR; and check in each baggage item with a designated return travel carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0174] The designated return mobile carrier may include an air mobile carrier, and the check-in information may include return flight information, including a return flight time, for the return flight.

[0175] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to obtain, during check-in, airline bag tag information for the return leg of each checked-in baggage item for each of the one or more unregistered passengers from a second computer system associated with the air mobile carrier, and to cause a printer to print, for each checked-in baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers, a new bag tag for the return leg that matches the IATA license plate.

[0176] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to obtain boarding pass information for a return flight for each of the one or more unregistered passengers during check-in and to communicate the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device for each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0177] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to assign a tracking device to a first baggage item of the registered passenger and to associate the tracking device with the first baggage item of the registered passenger.

[0178] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to assign the tracking device to a first baggage item of the registered passenger by programming a GMMT code designation or a PNR number into the tracking device, and to locate the first baggage item using the tracking device.

[0179] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to assign a tracking device to each baggage item of one or more unregistered passengers listed in the PNR database associated with the PNR number, and to associate the tracking device with each baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0180] The tracking device may be temporarily assigned.

[0181] The tracking device may be permanently assigned, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to locate the first baggage item using the tracking device.

[0182] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, which when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method including: acquiring, by an electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code indicia from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of a registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a first computer system associated with the multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the registered passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for a segment of travel of the registered passenger with a designated mobile carrier using information associated with the PNR number; and checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item into the designated mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the segment of travel.

[0183] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include verifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, the identity of the registered passenger prior to checking in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item.

[0184] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include generating and transmitting, by the electronic capture device, an electronic communication to a first computer system, the electronic communication may include tracking information including geographic location data, time, date, and GMMT data records associated with the electronic capture device, and recording, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking information in a registered passenger movement history database coupled to the first computer system.

[0185] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the specified mobile carrier may be an airline carrier, and the retrieved check-in information may include a return leg flight time for a return flight.

[0186] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, before retrieving the check-in information, electronically capturing, by an electronic capture device, a representation of an origin airline bag tag identifier (A-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from the origin air carrier that is on the first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital A-BTI data record linked to the origin air carrier, wherein the A-BTI may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate, and the digital A-BTI data record represents the IATA license plate.

[0187] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, during check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return flight for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger from a second computer system associated with the airline carrier, and causing a printer to print new bag tags for the return flight that match the IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger.

[0188] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include obtaining, during check-in, boarding pass information for a return flight of the registered passenger, and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the registered passenger.

[0189] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a digital A-BTI data record, and automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital A-BTI data record and the PNR number, where the baggage manifest record may include the retrieved check-in information.

[0190] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number, wherein the baggage manifest record may include data for check-in of the baggage item's travel leg with the designated mobile carrier.

[0191] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the designated mobile carrier may include one of a bus, a train, a cruise ship, a ferry, or an airplane.

[0192] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include: accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, data in a database associated with the PNR using the PNR number of the registered passenger; identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more unregistered passengers traveling on the return travel leg based on the accessed data; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the return travel leg of each of the one or more unregistered passengers using information associated with the data in the PNR; and checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, each baggage item into a designated return travel carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0193] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the specified return mobile carrier may include an air mobile carrier, and the check-in information may include return flight information including a return flight time for the return flight.

[0194] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, during check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, airline bag tag information for the return leg of each checked-in baggage item for each of the one or more unregistered passengers from a second computer system associated with the air mobile carrier, and causing a printer to print new bag tags for the return leg of the travel that match the IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item for the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0195] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include obtaining, during check-in, boarding pass information for a return flight for each of the one or more unregistered passengers, and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0196] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a first baggage item of the registered passenger, and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device with the first baggage item of the registered passenger.

[0197] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the assigning may include programming the GMMT code representation or PNR number into a tracking device, and the method may further include locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item using the tracking device.

[0198] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to each baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers listed in the PNR database associated with the PNR number, and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device to each baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers.

[0199] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, tracking devices may be temporarily assigned.

[0200] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the tracking device may be permanently assigned, and the method may further include locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item using the tracking device.

[0201] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the method includes: matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, first movement information for a registered passenger's baggage item in the master movement manifest, including a passenger name and an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, with second movement information from the created B-type message, including a reference indicator representing the baggage item sent along an unrouted route; searching, by at least one of the at least one processor, third movement information for the baggage item generated by the baggage handling system, which correlates to a time frame before or after the created B-type message, to locate the baggage item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a delivery instruction based on a baggage journey movement record associated with the master movement manifest for the current journey of the baggage item, wherein the delivery instruction is configured to reroute the baggage item to a location of the registered passenger's reservation.

[0202] The created B-type message may represent one of a baggage not confirmed message (BNS), a baggage processing message (BPM), a baggage transfer message (BTM), and a baggage source message (BSM).

[0203] The method may further include, by at least one of the at least one processor, training a model using the reference indicator; by at least one of the at least one processor, inputting data representing a regular route into the model; by at least one of the at least one processor, inputting data from one or more current B-type messages related to the transportation of the baggage item into the model; and by at least one of the at least one processor, training the model using data from one or more baggage handling systems that handle the baggage item, wherein the model uses a machine learning algorithm to detect that the baggage item is a baggage item sent on an atypical route and that a difference between the current route and the regular route is greater than a threshold.

[0204] The method may further include, prior to matching, receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an origin BSM and determining a routine route for the baggage item.

[0205] The method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents a deviation in time or distance between the routine route of the luggage item and the current route of the luggage item that is greater than a threshold value.

[0206] The method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; notifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a registered passenger that the baggage is unidentified based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; and submitting, by at least one of the at least one processor, a claim to the air carrier based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified.

[0207] The method may further include forming, by at least one of the at least one processor, a master travel manifest for the current travel day using first travel information associated with registered passengers traveling on the current travel day.

[0208] The method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents an atypical route for the cargo item, and accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, location data generated by a tracking device on the cargo item to track a current location of the cargo item, wherein generating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a delivery instruction further includes using the current location of the cargo item from the tracking device.

[0209] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to: match first movement information, including a passenger name and an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, for a registered passenger's baggage item in a master movement manifest with second movement information from a created B-type message, including a reference indicator representing the baggage item sent along an unrouted route; search for third movement information for the baggage item generated by a baggage handling system that correlates to a time frame before or after the created B-type message to locate the baggage item; and generate delivery instructions based on a baggage journey movement record associated with the master movement manifest for the current movement journey of the baggage item, the delivery instructions being configured to reroute the baggage item to a location of the registered person's reservation.

[0210] The created B-type message may represent one of a baggage not confirmed message (BNS), a baggage processing message (BPM), a baggage transfer message (BTM), and a baggage source message (BSM).

[0211] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to train a model using a reference indicator, input data representing a routine route into the model, input data from one or more current B-type messages related to the transportation of the baggage item into the model, and train the model using data from one or more baggage handling systems that handle the baggage item, wherein the model uses a machine learning algorithm to detect that the baggage item is a baggage item sent on an atypical route and that the difference between the current route and the routine route is greater than a threshold.

[0212] At least one processor of the system may be configured to execute at least one instruction to receive the source BSM and determine a routine route for the baggage item prior to matching.

[0213] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to determine whether the reference indicator represents a deviation in time or distance between the luggage item's scheduled route and the luggage item's current route that is greater than a threshold value.

[0214] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to determine whether the reference indicator represents information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified, notify a registered passenger that the baggage is unidentified based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified, and submit a claim to the air carrier based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified.

[0215] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to form a master travel manifest for the current travel day using first travel information associated with registered passengers traveling on the current travel day.

[0216] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to determine whether the reference indicator represents an atypical route for the cargo item, access location data generated by a tracking device on the cargo item to track the current location of the cargo item, and generate delivery instructions using the current location of the cargo item from the tracking device.

[0217] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions, which when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method including: matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, first movement information including a passenger name and an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number for a baggage item of a registered passenger in a master movement manifest with second movement information from an created B-type message including a reference indicator representing the baggage item sent along an unrouted route; searching, by at least one of the at least one processor, third movement information for the baggage item generated by a baggage handling system that correlates to a time frame before or after the created B-type message to locate the baggage item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, delivery instructions based on a baggage journey movement record associated with the master movement manifest for the current journey of the baggage item, the delivery instructions being configured to reroute the baggage item to a location of a reservation for the registered passenger.

[0218] With respect to a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the created B-type message may represent one of a baggage not confirmed message (BNS), a baggage processing message (BPM), a baggage transfer message (BTM), and a baggage source message (BSM).

[0219] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, by at least one of the at least one processor, training a model using the reference indicator; by at least one of the at least one processor, inputting data representing a regular route into the model; by at least one of the at least one processor, inputting data from one or more current B-type messages related to the transportation of the baggage item into the model; and by at least one of the at least one processor, training the model using data from one or more baggage handling systems that handle the baggage item, wherein the model uses a machine learning algorithm to detect that the baggage item is a baggage item sent on an atypical route and that a difference between the current route and the regular route is greater than a threshold.

[0220] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, prior to matching, receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an origin BSM and determining a routine route for the baggage item.

[0221] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents a deviation in time or distance between the routine route of the baggage item and the current route of the baggage item that is greater than a threshold value.

[0222] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; notifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a registered passenger that the baggage is unidentified based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; and submitting, by at least one of the at least one processor, a claim to the air carrier based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified.

[0223] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include forming, by at least one of the at least one processor, a master travel manifest for the current travel day using first travel information associated with registered passengers traveling on the current travel day.

[0224] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents an atypical route for the cargo item, and accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, location data generated by a tracking device on the cargo item to track a current location of the cargo item, and generating, by the at least one of the at least one processor, a delivery instruction may further include using the current location of the cargo item from the tracking device.

[0225] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a passenger's baggage item; loading, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from a baggage source message (BSM) into the tracking device; and transmitting, by the tracking device, location information to a network interface of a computing system associated with the at least one processor, the location information including location coordinate data of the tracking device and information from the BSM.

[0226] The assigning may include providing, by at least one of the at least one processor, at least one of a passenger name record (PNR) number, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, or a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to the tracking device, and the method may further include receiving, by a network interface of the computing system, the location information, and locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item using the tracking device.

[0227] The passenger may include a passenger registered with the baggage handling system, and the BSM may include a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) that links a GMMT bag tag number with one of a PNR number or an IATA license plate number.

[0228] The method of claim 3, wherein the information from the BSM may include an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the registered passenger.

[0229] Information from the BSM may include the IATA license plate numbers of other baggage items associated with the unregistered passenger associated with the PNR number.

[0230] The BSM may be an airline BSM.

[0231] The computing system may be associated with one of an airline carrier, a baggage handling system, or a mobile vehicle.

[0232] The tracking device may include an inertial navigation system for environments where a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is not available.

[0233] The method may further include, by the tracking device, communicating the current location information to a network interface of the computing system using one of an ad hoc communication protocol, a Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, and a cellular communication protocol when one of an ad hoc connection is in range, a WI-FI device is in range, a BLUETOOTH enabled device is in range, or a cellular tower is in range.

[0234] The method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the BSM represents a regular route for the cargo item; determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the received B-type message represents an atypical route for the cargo item; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, location information generated by the tracking device to find a current location of the cargo item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a delivery instruction to reroute the cargo item using the current location.

[0235] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes a computing system including at least one processor and a network interface; at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; and a tracking device configured to transmit location information to the network interface, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to assign the tracking device to a passenger's baggage item and load information from a baggage source message (BSM) into the tracking device, wherein the location information includes location coordinate data of the tracking device and information from the BSM.

[0236] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to assign a tracking device to a baggage item by providing at least one of a passenger name record (PNR) number, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, or a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to the tracking device, receive location information via the network interface, and locate the baggage item using the tracking device.

[0237] The passenger may include a passenger registered with the baggage handling system, and the BSM may include a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) that links a GMMT bag tag number with one of a PNR number or an IATA license plate number.

[0238] Information from the BSM may include the IATA license plate numbers of other baggage items associated with the registered passenger.

[0239] Information from the BSM may include the IATA license plate numbers of other baggage items associated with the unregistered passenger associated with the PNR number.

[0240] The BSM may be an airline BSM.

[0241] The computing system may be associated with one of an airline carrier, a baggage handling system, or a mobile vehicle.

[0242] The tracking device may include an inertial navigation system for environments where a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is not available.

[0243] The tracking device may be further configured to communicate current location information to a network interface of the computing system using one of an ad-hoc communication protocol, a wireless fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, and a cellular communication protocol when one of an ad-hoc connection is in range, a WI-FI device is in range, a BLUETOOTH enabled device is in range, or a cellular tower is in range.

[0244] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to determine that a reference indicator in the BSM represents a regular route for the cargo item, determine that a reference indicator in the received B-type message represents an atypical route for the cargo item, access location information generated by the tracking device to find a current location of the cargo item, and generate delivery instructions to reroute the cargo item using the current location.

[0245] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method including assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a passenger's baggage item; loading, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from a Baggage Source Message (BSM) into the tracking device; and transmitting, by the tracking device, location information to a network interface of a computing system associated with the at least one processor, the location information including location coordinate data of the tracking device and information from the BSM.

[0246] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the assigning may include providing, by at least one of the at least one processor, at least one of a passenger name record (PNR) number, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, or a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to a tracking device, and the method may further include receiving, by a network interface of the computing system, the location information, and locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage item using the tracking device.

[0247] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the passenger may include a passenger registered with a baggage handling system, and the BSM may include a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) linking a GMMT bag tag number with one of a PNR number or an IATA license plate number.

[0248] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the information from the BSM may include the IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the registered passenger.

[0249] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the information from the BSM may include an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger associated with the PNR number.

[0250] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the BSM may be an airline BSM.

[0251] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computing system may be associated with one of an airline carrier, a baggage handling system, or a mobile vehicle.

[0252] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the tracking device may include an inertial navigation system for environments where a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is unavailable.

[0253] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include, by the tracking device, communicating the current location information to a network interface of the computing system using one of an ad hoc communication protocol, a wireless fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, and a cellular communication protocol when one of an ad hoc connection is in range, a WI-FI device is in range, a BLUETOOTH enabled device is in range, or a cellular tower is in range.

[0254] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the BSM represents a regular route for the cargo item; determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the received B-type message represents an atypical route for the cargo item; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, location information generated by the tracking device to find a current location of the cargo item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, delivery instructions for rerouting the cargo item using the current location.

[0255] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a method includes storing in at least one memory of a tracking device a travel request number associated with a passenger; pairing, by the tracking device, with a service device associated with an air carrier, airport, government agency, or entity; transmitting, by the tracking device, the travel request number to the service device; and causing the service device to perform a function based on the received travel request number, wherein the tracking device is affixed to a baggage item of the passenger.

[0256] The method may further include storing, by the tracking device, the digital certificate, and requesting, by the tracking advice, authentication by the service device using the digital certificate.

[0257] The method may further include communicating, by the tracking device, location information to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item, independent of the passenger's mobile communication device, the location information representing location information of the baggage item.

[0258] The travel request number may include a passenger name record (PNR) number, the service device may include a kiosk including a bag tag printer, and the functionality may include printing International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant bag tags.

[0259] The travel claim number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device may include a baggage handling device of an airport baggage handling system, and the function may include communicating the pseudo identification number to a security screening machine, and the tracking device may be configured to receive the pseudo identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

[0260] The pseudo identification number may include a primary number associated with a stored security screening image taken by a security screening machine.

[0261] The travel request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device may include a baggage handling device of an airport baggage handling system, and the function may include communicating the unique bag identification number to a security screening machine, and the tracking device may be configured to receive the unique bag identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

[0262] The unique bag identification number may include a primary number associated with a stored security screening image taken by a security screening machine.

[0263] The method may further include pairing, by the tracking device, with the passenger's mobile communication device and communicating, by the mobile communication device, a travel request number, which may include a passenger booking record (PNR) number.

[0264] The method may further include receiving, by the tracking device, the personally identifiable information from the passenger's mobile communication device.

[0265] The method may further include storing the personally identifiable information in at least one memory.

[0266] The personally identifiable information may include at least one of the passenger's date of birth, the passenger's name, the passenger's social security number, the passenger's passport identification number, or a government-issued identification number.

[0267] Storing the movement request number in at least one memory of the tracking device may further include storing, by the tracking device, baggage source message (BSM) information, where the BSM information may include multiple movement request numbers.

[0268] The multiple travel authorization numbers may include a passenger name record (PNR) number and an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number.

[0269] The BSM information may include a reference indicator, and the method may further include receiving, by the tracking device, at least one reference indicator from the second service device; comparing, by the tracking device, the at least one reference indicator with the reference indicators included in the BSM information; determining, by the tracking device, that an atypical reference indicator has been received; and providing, by the tracking device, notification of the atypical reference indicator to a computing system associated with tracking the package item.

[0270] The method may further include communicating, by the tracking device, the location information by notification to a computing system associated with tracking the package item, the location information representing location information of the package item.

[0271] The tracking device may be configured to communicate using at least one of a Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol, a long-range radio frequency communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, and a Global System for Mobile Communications, and the method may further include communicating, by the tracking device, the current location information to a computing system associated with tracking the package item.

[0272] The movement request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, and the method may further include transmitting, by the tracking device, the movement request number to a radio frequency identification (RFID) receiver of a baggage handling system (BHS), wherein the BHS routes the baggage item based on baggage source message (BSM) information accessed using the movement request number.

[0273] The tracking device may include a display screen, and the travel application number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, and the method may further include causing the tracking device to display, on the display screen, an IATA license plate having the IATA license plate number.

[0274] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes a tracking device comprising at least one processor and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to store in the at least one memory a travel request number associated with a passenger, pair the tracking device with a service device associated with an air carrier, airport, government agency, or entity, and transmit the travel request number to the service device, wherein the travel request number is configured to cause the service device to perform a function when the travel request number is received by the service device, and wherein the tracking device is affixed to a baggage item of the passenger.

[0275] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to store the digital certificate in the at least one memory and to request authentication by the service device using the digital certificate.

[0276] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to communicate location information to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item, independent of the passenger's mobile communication device, the location information representing location information of the baggage item.

[0277] The travel request number may include a passenger name record (PNR) number, the service device may include a kiosk including a bag tag printer, and the functionality may include printing International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant bag tags.

[0278] The travel request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device may include a baggage handling device of an airport baggage handling system, and the function may include communicating the pseudo identification number to a security screening machine, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive the pseudo identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

[0279] The pseudo identification number may include a primary number associated with a stored security screening image taken by a security screening machine.

[0280] The travel request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device may include a baggage handling device of an airport baggage handling system, and the function may include communicating the unique bag identification number to a security screening machine, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive the unique bag identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

[0281] The unique bag identification number may include a primary number associated with a stored security screening image taken by a security screening machine.

[0282] At least one processor of the system may be configured to execute at least one instruction to pair the tracking device with a mobile communication device of the passenger and to cause the mobile communication device to communicate a travel request number, the travel request number including a passenger booking record (PNR) number.

[0283] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive personally identifiable information from a passenger's mobile communication device.

[0284] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to store the personally identifiable information in the at least one memory.

[0285] The personally identifiable information may include at least one of the passenger's date of birth, the passenger's name, the passenger's social security number, the passenger's passport identification number, or a government-issued identification number.

[0286] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to store baggage source message (BSM) information in at least one memory, where the BSM information may include multiple movement request numbers.

[0287] The multiple travel authorization numbers may include a passenger name record (PNR) number and an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number.

[0288] The BSM information may include a reference indicator, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to receive at least one reference indicator from the second service device, compare the at least one reference indicator with the reference indicator included in the BSM information, determine that an atypical reference indicator has been received, and provide notification of the atypical reference indicator to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item.

[0289] At least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to communicate the location information by notification to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item, the location information representing location information of the baggage item.

[0290] The tracking device may be configured to communicate using at least one of a Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol, a long-range radio frequency communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, and a Global System for Mobile Communications, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to communicate current location information to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item.

[0291] The movement request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to transmit the movement request number to a radio frequency identification (RFID) receiver of a baggage handling system (BHS), wherein the BHS routes the baggage item based on baggage source message (BSM) information accessed using the movement request number.

[0292] The tracking device may further include a display screen, the travel application number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, and at least one processor of the system may be further configured to execute at least one instruction to cause the display screen to display an IATA license plate having the IATA license plate number.

[0293] According to an aspect of the disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method including storing, in at least one memory of a tracking device, a travel request number associated with a passenger; pairing, by the tracking device, with a service device associated with an air carrier, airport, government agency, or entity; transmitting, by the tracking device, the travel request number to the service device; and causing the service device to perform a function based on the received travel request number, wherein the tracking device is affixed to a baggage item of the passenger.

[0294] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include storing, by the tracking device, a digital certificate, and requesting, by the tracking advice, authentication by the service device using the digital certificate.

[0295] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include communicating, by the tracking device, location information to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item, independent of the passenger's mobile communication device, wherein the location information represents location information of the baggage item.

[0296] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the travel request number may include a passenger name record (PNR) number, the service device may include a kiosk including a bag tag printer, and the function may include printing an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant bag tag.

[0297] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the travel request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device may include a baggage handling device of an airport baggage handling system, and the function may include communicating the pseudo identification number to a security screening machine, and the tracking device may be configured to receive the pseudo identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

[0298] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the pseudo-identification number may include a primary number associated with a stored security screening image captured by a security screening machine.

[0299] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the travel request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device may include a baggage handling device of an airport baggage handling system, and the function may include communicating a unique bag identification number to a security screening machine, and the tracking device may be configured to receive the unique bag identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

[0300] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the unique bag identification number may include a primary number associated with a stored security screening image captured by a security screening machine.

[0301] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include pairing, by the tracking device, with a mobile communication device of the passenger, and communicating, by the mobile communication device, a travel request number, which may include a passenger booking record (PNR) number.

[0302] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include receiving, by the tracking device, personally identifiable information from the passenger's mobile communication device.

[0303] For methods performed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include storing the personally identifiable information in at least one memory.

[0304] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the personally identifiable information may include at least one of the passenger's date of birth, the passenger's name, the passenger's social security number, the passenger's passport identification number, or a government-issued identification number.

[0305] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, storing the movement request number in at least one memory of the tracking device may further include storing, by the tracking device, baggage source message (BSM) information, wherein the BSM information may include multiple movement request numbers.

[0306] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the plurality of travel request numbers may include passenger name record (PNR) numbers and International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate numbers.

[0307] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the BSM information may include a reference indicator, and the method may further include receiving, by the tracking device, at least one reference indicator from the second service device; comparing, by the tracking device, the at least one reference indicator with the reference indicator included in the BSM information; determining, by the tracking device, that an atypical reference indicator has been received; and providing, by the tracking device, notification of the atypical reference indicator to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item.

[0308] For methods executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the method may further include communicating, by the tracking device, location information by notification to a computing system associated with tracking the cargo item, the location information representing location information of the cargo item.

[0309] With respect to a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the tracking device may be configured to communicate using at least one of a Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol, a long-range radio frequency communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, and a Global System for Mobile Communications, and the method may further include communicating current location information by the tracking device to a computing system associated with tracking the package item.

[0310] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the movement request number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, and the method may further include transmitting, by the tracking device, the movement request number to a radio frequency identification (RFID) receiver of a baggage handling system (BHS), wherein the BHS routes the baggage item based on baggage source message (BSM) information accessed using the movement request number.

[0311] For a method executed in response to instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the tracking device may include a display screen, and the movement application number may include an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, and the method may further include causing the tracking device to display, on the display screen, an IATA license plate having the IATA license plate number.

[0312] For a more detailed understanding of the embodiments, please refer to the following detailed disclosure in connection with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0313] [Figure 1A] 1 illustrates a multi-modal baggage management (MMBM) system for managing the transportation of at least one baggage item on a baggage journey, according to an embodiment. [Figure 1B] 1 illustrates a multi-modal baggage management (MMBM) system for managing the transportation of at least one baggage item on a baggage journey, according to an embodiment. [Figure 2A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating a permanent bag tag identifier (P-BTI), according to an embodiment. [Figure 2B] 1 illustrates a global bag tag with P-BTI, according to an embodiment. [Figure 2C] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for forming a global bag tag, according to an embodiment. [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for assigning tracking devices and initiating tracking of package items, according to an embodiment. [Figure 3B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for tracking package items, according to an embodiment. [Figure 4A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for contactless parking payment, according to an embodiment. [Figure 4B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for accessing B-type messages of a traveler using contactless parking payment, according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating and / or updating a baggage manifest record, according to an embodiment. [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates a system for digitizing baggage management and baggage check-in, according to an embodiment. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in a passenger and / or generating a baggage manifest, according to an embodiment. [Figure 6C] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in a passenger and / or generating a baggage manifest, according to an embodiment. [Figure 6D] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for checking in a passenger and / or generating a baggage manifest, according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates an exemplary confirmed itinerary for an airline flight, according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] The format of the Airline Baggage Source Message (BSM) is shown below. [Figure 9A] 1 illustrates a format of a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) according to an embodiment. [Figure 9B] 1 illustrates a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) link structure according to an embodiment. [Figure 10A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) for registered passengers and / or a Temporary Baggage Source Message (T-BSM) for the current travel leg of one or more unregistered passengers, according to an embodiment. [Figure 10B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) for registered passengers and / or a Temporary Baggage Source Message (T-BSM) for the current travel leg of one or more unregistered passengers, according to an embodiment. [Figure 10C]1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for generating a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) for registered passengers and / or a Temporary Baggage Source Message (T-BSM) for the current travel leg of one or more unregistered passengers, according to an embodiment. [Figure 11A] 1 illustrates baggage journeys for different journeys, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 11B] 1 illustrates baggage journeys for different journeys, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 11C] 1 illustrates baggage journeys for different journeys, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device in a network environment, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 13A] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for managing the recovery of missing, lost, rerouted, delayed, or mishandled baggage items, according to an embodiment. [Figure 13B] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for managing the recovery of missing, lost, rerouted, delayed, or mishandled baggage items, according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for locating missing, lost, rerouted, delayed or mishandled baggage items, according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] A diagram of an abnormal baggage item detection model is shown. [Figure 16A] 1 shows a block diagram of a tracking device according to an embodiment. [Figure 16B] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a contactless bag tag print manager according to an embodiment. [Figure 16C] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a security screening manager according to an embodiment. [Figure 16D] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a mobile-tracker pairing manager according to an embodiment. [Figure 16E] 1 illustrates a block diagram of an atypical reference indicator detection manager according to an embodiment. [Figure 17A]1 illustrates a block diagram of a contactless luggage bag tag printing process using a tracking device, according to an embodiment. [Figure 17B] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a pseudo-identification (ID) recording process using a tracking device, according to an embodiment. [Figure 17C] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a process for communicating location information from a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) platform, according to an embodiment. [Figure 17D] 1 illustrates a diagram of a process of a tracking device for communicating location information with at least one radio frequency (RF) access point, according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] 1 shows a block diagram of a tracking system according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0314] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which specific embodiments are shown by way of illustration. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0315] Glossary A-BTI stands for "Airline Bag Tag Identifier." An airline bag tag identifier, also known as a baggage tag or baggage label, is a baggage tag or label attached to a passenger's baggage that contains identifying information about the passenger and their flight with the airline. It is used by airlines to track and handle the passenger's checked baggage. Tags carrying the A-BTI typically include the passenger's name, flight information (flight number, departure and destination airports, and travel date and time), and a unique identifier such as a bag tag number or barcode. The A-BTI corresponds to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate, which is unique to each piece of baggage and is also used as a basis for airlines to track baggage through their baggage handling systems (BHS), match baggage to the passenger's flight and route, and identify the baggage's owner in the event of misplaced, lost, or delayed baggage. The A-BTI is typically issued at check-in; passengers affix it to their baggage before collecting it at the baggage claim counter, or it is affixed by a counter agent.

[0316] A Departure Control System (DCS) refers to a system that controls various airline operations, including airport check-in, baggage check-in, passenger bag tag identifier (BTID) generation, and bag tag printing. Bag tags are formatted based on rules published by IATA and include, for example, an IATA 10-digit license plate. Typically, one or more IATA Type B messages are created that contain the 10-digit license plate and flight information.

[0317] Type B (or B-Type) messages refer to a specific communication format used by airlines and other entities in the aviation industry to send and receive critical operational data. These messages are standardized and used for a wide range of applications, including flight planning, passenger reservations and check-in, baggage tracking, weather updates, and other critical air transport operations. Type B messaging standards are overseen by IATA. Compared to more modern data types and formats, such as XML (Extensible Markup Language) and JSON (JavaScript Object Notation), which carry message payloads, Type B messages employ a rigid structure. Type B messages operate on a "store-and-forward" mechanism, whereby the message sender transmits data through a service provider, which then stores it for a contracted period, often seven days. Data is delivered directly to the selected recipient or, if it resides on a different network, through a gateway provider. In the event of a delivery failure, contractual agreements allow for the data to be resent, and the contingency is reflected in the PDM (Possible Duplicate Message) header.

[0318] Accommodation means a business or operation that provides residential lodging services, including, by way of non-limiting example, hotels, resorts, ferries, cruise ships, and the like.

[0319] Mode of transportation means a mode of intermediate or long-distance transportation of travelers or passengers from an origin to a destination. Modes of transportation may include automobiles, rental cars, buses, trains, ferries, airplanes, or any other commercial means of transportation or passenger carriages. A cruise ship may be a mode of transportation.

[0320] Multimodal travel implies the functional use of Type B messages and IATA messages and the extension of the use of such messages to accommodation entities. The IATA message name, PNR number and form become bag tags for the entire journey and any mode of travel.

[0321] Source Hardcopy Bag Tag Identifier (OH-BTI) means a unique identifier associated with or printed on a baggage tag from an originating air mobile carrier. Generally, all baggage traveling with an airline is tagged with a unique identifier for tracking purposes, which is usually attached to the baggage at check-in and scanned at various points during travel to ensure the baggage reaches its correct destination.

[0322] P-BTI means "Permanent Bag Tag Identifier." The P-BTI is a specially issued bag tag identifier with a portion that complies with IATA regulations and is associated with the Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number of a registered passenger's baggage. The P-BTI is an identifier linked to a registered passenger or traveler using a multi-modal baggage handling service. The specially issued P-BTI is affixed to the passenger's baggage, including identifying information about the registered passenger and, if grouped, traveling passengers associated with the registered passenger. The P-BTI is used by the multi-modal baggage handling service to track and process the passenger's baggage and, if grouped, traveling passengers associated with the registered passenger for any moving vehicle, including multiple moving vehicles. The P-BTI is assigned to the registered passenger for a predetermined validity period. The P-BTI may be renewable or expire upon death. The portion of the P-BTI that complies with IATA regulations may include a letter code and / or corresponding numeric code for a non-operating airline.

[0323] Passenger manifest means a record containing an array of data including data for check-in of a passenger for the return leg of travel with a designated return travel carrier.

[0324] PNR stands for "Passenger Reservation Record." It is a record in an airline or travel agency's database that contains all details of a passenger's itinerary and travel information. This information includes the passenger's name, contact information, flight details, seat preferences, and any special requests. The PNR also contains information about the reservation, such as the reservation date, fare, and ticketing status. It is used by airlines and travel agencies to manage and track passenger itineraries and travel plans. A PNR number is unique to at least one passenger and serves as a reference for the PNR for passengers, airlines, and travel agencies. The PNR is also used to check in, check flight status, and make any changes to a reservation. The PNR number itself is typically six characters long and often a combination of letters and numbers. While regulatory bodies such as IATA have not specified a universal format for PNRs, each PNR has five required fields, including: (1) a telephone number associated with the traveler or agent, (2) the person who last modified the PNR, (3) an itinerary that must include at least one leg of the journey, (4) the name(s) of one or more passengers, including full first and last names, and (5) information specifying when and how a ticket will be issued. All modes of travel can use PNRs across a travel itinerary. Travel platforms can use Super PNRs that link together several PNRs for a travel itinerary.

[0325] PMM travel information is short for "preferred multi-modal" travel information. PMM travel information includes information in a database associated with a travel membership number or a membership number in a travel management system or online travel booking engine. The database may include instructions for accessing travel reservations made by passengers registered using the travel membership number.

[0326] Registered passenger means a person, user or passenger who is registered to manage the transportation of at least one baggage item in a baggage journey using a global baggage tag identifier.

[0327] A travel management system (TMS) is a type of service that a user can access online to book one or more reservations for a single trip by finding or providing reservations according to the lowest or discounted rates from different sources, such as airlines, hotels, and car rental companies. TMSs may include, but are not limited to, Travelocity®, Expedia®, Orbitz®, Priceline®, Trivago®, Booking.com®, etc. TMSs may include, but are not limited to, vacation rental online platforms, such as Airbnb®, Vrbo®, Vacasa®, Kayak.com®, Hometogo®, etc. A TMS may be an online travel booking engine.

[0328] Travel Membership Number (TMN) means a number assigned to a user or member of an entity for the purpose of earning reward points or discounts, which are converted into non-transferable monetary value that can only be used by the member entity. A TMN may include an airline frequent flyer number, hotel membership number, car rental membership number, or cruise line membership number, and is used by a member to book a reservation.

[0329] Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) means a baggage source message that conforms to an IATA B-type message and is configured to independently link to booking information and global baggage tag numbers for multiple modes of travel. For airline modes of travel, the GTE-BSM contains fields for the global bag tag number and origin IATA license plate for the travel leg of the current journey. The GTE-BSM contains a link to PMM travel information.

[0330] Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) Bag Tag Number means a permanently assigned license plate or P-BTI for a registered passenger's baggage. Permanently assigned license plates comply with IATA regulations and are renewable or expire after a predetermined validity period of one month or upon death.

[0331] Global Bag Tag means a bag tag configured to be affixed to a baggage item for multiple use, including a substrate having a GMMT bag tag number printed, engraved, embossed, etched, or otherwise applied thereto. A permanently assigned license plate or P-BTI is applied to the substrate in a barcode or Quick Response (QR) code conforming to IATA regulations. The Global Bag Tag may include a registered passenger name and at least one PMM code associated with PMM movement information.

[0332] Vehicle of Transport (VOT) means accommodation and / or transportation utilized by passengers or baggage during a journey. The term "vehicle" is not limited to a locomotive, land vehicle, air vehicle, water vehicle, or moving vehicle. Instead, a vehicle is a vehicle for providing travel, accommodation, or entertainment to travelers during a journey based on a reservation.

[0333] In one or more embodiments, the system may be configured to link a passenger's different travel members and travel member modes so that the system can access any travel vehicle reservations associated with the travel itinerary of a travel member (i.e., passenger) of the system, thereby enabling the system to gather more accurate information for the traveler's baggage itinerary, traveling independently and / or concurrently with the traveler.

[0334] According to an embodiment, the system can have one or more reservation systems provide updates to baggage leg segments for changes to reservations due to baggage handling. Alternatively, the system can, for example, re-query the travel member's reservation system to determine any changes to reservations within the travel window.

[0335] The system can generate a GTE-BSM that complies with IATA regulations and can be used by an airline's baggage handling system to handle and transport baggage items through the airline's infrastructure, outside the airline's infrastructure, and / or at locations where the airline's infrastructure overlaps with the outside airline's infrastructure.

[0336] The system 100 can receive updates from registered passengers to change or cancel reservations.

[0337] In one or more embodiments, the system's processor is configured to link a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to at least one travel membership number for the registered passenger to access reservation information associated with at least one mode of travel associated with the at least one travel membership number associated with the registered passenger. The system's processor is configured to collect reservation information for a current journey of at least one baggage item traveling independently or in parallel with the registered passenger in a registered passenger profile linked to the GMMT bag tag number. The system's processor is configured to construct a Baggage Travel Journey Record (BTJR) for pickup and delivery of the at least one baggage item based on the collected reservation information, and the BTJR is linked to the GMMT bag tag number.

[0338] 1A and 1B illustrate a multi-modal baggage management (MMBM) system 100 for managing the transportation of at least one baggage item on a baggage journey, according to an embodiment. The system 100 in FIG. 1A is shown below the dotted line AA. The MMBM system 100 is designed to manage the transportation of baggage items for registered passengers using P-BTI 134 printed, embossed, etched, engraved, or applied to a substrate 233 of a Global Bag Tag 230 (FIG. 2B) independently and / or parallel to the passenger's journey.

[0339] System 100 may include a website 110 having a web server 112 running a web operating system and a web application. Website 110 may include a memory device 115 having stored thereon programming code that, when executed by one or more processors of web server 112, performs one or more of the method blocks described herein. The programming code may include MMBM programming modules 120. One or more programming modules 120 may include software, hardware, firmware, or a combination of software, hardware, and firmware to perform the functions described herein when executed by one or more processors of system 100.

[0340] The memory device 115 may contain a master movement manifest 109, which includes passengers traveling that day. The MMBM programming module 120 may contain programming instructions that, when executed, use data in the manifest to locate traveling passengers and their baggage items. The MMBM programming module 120 may contain programming instructions that, when executed, cause the master movement manifest 109 to be updated with IATA bag tag numbers when passenger baggage is checked in by a processor in the system 100, such as at home, lodging, or other location. The MMBM programming module 120 may contain programming instructions that, when executed, cause the master movement manifest 109 to be updated with baggage source message information and information generated in the development of the GTE-BSM structure 950. The MMBM programming module 120 may contain programming instructions that, when executed, cause it to receive B-type messages from airlines for passengers or travelers traveling on a particular day or time frame.

[0341] The website 110 may be accessed by a computing device 50 associated with a user or passenger to register with the system 100 via an online session via a web server 112 .

[0342] The MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause a passenger registration graphical user interface (GUI) 124 to collect information to register a passenger, traveler, or user. As used herein, a user, traveler, or passenger is referred to as a registered passenger. The computing device 50 may use the passenger registration GUI 124 to interact with the website 110 to register a user or passenger.

[0343] The passenger registration GUI 124 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the personal information collector 125 to request and receive passenger personal information (PI) 129 to register the passenger and create a registered passenger profile 122. The PI 129 may include one or more of the registered passenger's name, home address, phone number, date of birth, and email address. The PI 129 may include at least one of the following: driver's license information and passport information with a passport identifier. An image of the driver's license may, for example, be uploaded and stored in the PI 129. The driver's license information and passport information each include an image of the passenger / traveler's face. In one or more embodiments, the PI 129 may include an image of at least one of the passengers / travelers.

[0344] In one or more embodiments, the passenger registration GUI 124 may include data entry fields to request demographic information, such as business, hobby and trade memberships, social media accounts, and other memberships, such as entertainment membership accounts. The demographic information may be stored as part of the PI 129. The system 100 may use the user's history to identify meetings or events previously attended. The meetings or events may be associated with demographic information, such as demographic information or past history to predict usage of contactless hotel parking services without reservations.

[0345] In one or more embodiments, GUI 124 or other graphical user interface can receive instructions from a user that enable a processor of system 100 to track the user's location using their mobile communication device. In one or more embodiments, tracking a user's location can help find the quickest route for delivering an unusual package to its owner. In one or more embodiments, tracking a user's location can help find available parking when a parking spot is difficult to find.

[0346] In one or more embodiments, the passenger registration GUI 124 may request permission from the system 100 via the processor to provide certain personally identifiable information, such as passenger name and date of birth, along with security screening images to a government agency, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

[0347] The passenger registration GUI 124 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the luggage information collector 126 to receive images of luggage items so that the luggage items can subsequently be matched to physical luggage items, if necessary. Registered passengers may update the images of their luggage in storage when their luggage items are replaced or exchanged.

[0348] In one or more embodiments, the PI 129 may include credit card or banking information for billing baggage fees from airlines, parking fees as described in connection with Figure 4A, or other fees necessary to deliver and handle the registered passenger's luggage. The banking information may be arranged in a secure wallet 980 (Figure 9B).

[0349] The passenger registration GUI 124 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause a preferred multi-mode (PMM) mobility information collector 127 to query and receive travel preference information. The PMM mobility information collector 127 is described in connection with FIG. 2A. As a non-limiting example, the travel preference information may include travel membership information (TMI) 128.

[0350] The collected TMI 128 may include at least one travel membership number. The system 100 may autonomously search for other business information associated with the entered TMI 128 (i.e., travel membership number), such as the name of the company sponsoring the membership, the company's address, and company contact information. Alternatively, the passenger may enter the business information or portions thereof. The TMI 128 may include information associated with one or more of a frequent flyer number, a hotel membership number, a travel membership number, a travel management system (TMS) number, etc. The information is stored in a database for accessing reservation information associated with the TMI 128.

[0351] The TMI 128 may be associated with a TMS, and the system 100 may access multiple reservations booked through the TMS and build a luggage item travel history that is independent of the passenger (i.e., the luggage item owner).

[0352] The MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the contactless parking payment service 139 to collect information from a passenger, traveler, or user to enroll in contactless parking payment. This may be accomplished using a graphical user interface in which the user enters the license plate number of their vehicle, such as for a road trip the user is making, and links to a hotel reservation, which in one or more embodiments may be a rental car reservation and a hotel reservation. Details of the contactless parking payment service 139 may be described in more detail in connection with FIG. 4A.

[0353] According to one or more embodiments, the MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the global bag tag generator 130 to generate the P-BTI 134. The global bag tag generator 130 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the P-BTI generator 133 to assemble the P-BTI 134. In one or more embodiments, a portion of the P-BTI 134 may be IATA compliant. The P-BTI generator 133 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the permanent license plate (P-LP) generator 135 to generate a permanent bag tag license plate (P-LP) 136, which may be IATA compliant. The P-LP 136 may include a series of numbers. The P-BTI generator 133 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the PMM code generator 137 to generate at least one PMM code 138. According to an embodiment, each PMM code may be directly associated with the travel membership number associated with the TMI 128.

[0354] According to an embodiment, the P-BTI 134 may include both a series of alphanumeric characters and an associated barcode or Quick Response (QR) code for the P-LP 136. The PMM code 138 may include a series of alphanumeric characters and an associated barcode or QR code.

[0355] According to one or more embodiments, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include a first portion including the P-LP 136. In some cases, the registered passenger may not enter the TMI 128. In one or more embodiments, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include a first portion including the P-LP 136 and a section portion including PMM codes that do not represent TMI information. However, if the registered passenger adds TMI information to their passenger profile, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include a second portion including at least one PMM code 138. As a non-limiting example, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include a space or gap between the end of the first portion (i.e., the P-LP 136) having at least one PMM code 138 and the second portion. As a non-limiting example, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include a dash between the end of the first portion (i.e., the P-LP 136) having at least one PMM code 138 and the second portion. As a non-limiting example, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include a first portion (i.e., P-LP 136) positioned at a first position on the substrate 233 (FIG. 2B) and a second portion having at least one PMM code 138 positioned at a second position on the substrate 233 (FIG. 2B), the first position being different from the second position.

[0356] The assembled P-BTI 134 may include PMM codes 138 for different TMIs 128 for one or more travel membership numbers. In one or more embodiments, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include one PMM code 138 to access all TMIs 128. In one or more embodiments, the assembled P-BTI 134 may include one PMM code 138 for each different TMI 128. The assembled P-BTI 134 may include one PMM code 138 for each category of TMI 128.

[0357] The P-BTI 134 may be associated with the GTE-BSM 141, and both may have a predetermined duration. The P-BTI 134 and GTE-BSM 141 may, for example, expire or be renewed after a predetermined validity period. The permanent duration of the P-BTI and GTE-BSM may span a validity period. The predetermined validity period of the P-BTI 134 and GTE-BSM 141 may be from one month to one year, five years, ten years, or twenty years. The present disclosure is not limited to the aforementioned validity periods, and other predetermined validity periods may include, for example, more than one month but less than one to five years or less than ten years.

[0358] According to an embodiment, the passenger's P-BTI 134 may include a permanent license plate (P-LP) 136 that may comply with current and future IATA regulations. The P-BTI 134 may include at least one preferred multi-mode (PMM) travel code 138 that is based on at least one travel membership number of the registered passenger.

[0359] According to one or more embodiments, the MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the GTE-BSM generator 140 to generate a GTE-BSM 141, as described in connection with FIG. 9A . The GTE-BSM generator 140 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can create BSM fields such that some fields have permanent information assigned to specific fields. For example, the GTE-BSM 141 may have a field with a registered passenger name (RPN) 143. The GTE-BSM 141 may have a field for a P-BTI 134 with at least a P-LP 136. In the GTE-BSM 141, a special character or number may separate the P-LP 136 from the first PMM transfer code 138. Similarly, a special character or number may separate each PMM transfer code 138 from the next PMM transfer code. Other encoding schemes for separating code sequences may be used and should not be limited to those described herein.

[0360] The GTE-BSM 141 can be updated with the current passenger reservation record (PNR) number 142 associated with the current leg of travel within a particular travel window. The PNR number 142 can have one passenger or multiple passengers in its passenger list, where one of the passengers is a registered passenger matching the RPN 143.

[0361] The system 100 may be configured to autonomously associate a passenger reservation record (PNR) number 142 for a particular travel slot with the GTE-BSM 141 if one of the listed passengers is a passenger with a P-BTI 134. For example, a registered passenger may book the current travel leg using any travel membership number for which a PNR number may be created. In one or more embodiments, a Super PNR number may be created for multiple travel modes, with or without multiple passengers connected / associated with the Super PNR number. In response to a travel booking being made, a corresponding reservation system may be accessed to retrieve the travel itinerary, as described in more detail in connection with FIG. 1B.

[0362] The MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the follow-up PNR baggage link 144 to link together multiple unregistered passengers with the registered passenger's GTE-BSM and P-BTI, all of which are associated with the same PNR number for the current travel leg. In an example, some passengers associated with a super PNR number may have initially traveled with the same airline and / or may arrive at their final destination at different times, disembarking from a cruise ship or staying at a resort. The follow-up PNR baggage link 144 may include programming instructions that, when executed, link each unregistered passenger's A-BSM and / or A-BTI to the registered passenger's GTE-BSM 141, all of which are associated with the PNR number for the current travel leg. The unregistered passenger names may be referred to as "other passenger names."

[0363] The follow-PNR baggage link 144, when executed, may include programming instructions that cause the temporary BSM (T-BSM) generator 145 to generate the T-BSM 146, as described in connection with FIG. 10B. The T-BSM 146 is similar to the GTE-BSM, except that it is for unregistered passengers. After the travel journey, the T-BSM 146 may be deleted in its entirety. The MMBM programming module 120, when executed, may include programming instructions that cause the moving vehicle BSM (VOT-BSM) generator 149 to generate the VOT-BSM 151, as described in connection with FIG. 10C. Examples of linking are described below in connection with the steps associated with block 507.

[0364] MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause baggage handling resource allocator 147 to determine resources needed to handle the tracking and / or handling of baggage items at one or more destinations associated with a baggage journey. Baggage handling resource allocator 147 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause origin allocator 148A to allocate resources (i.e., personnel and ground vehicles) for baggage items to be picked up from a passenger's home or other designated address and delivered to an origin transportation mode location, such as an airport, bus station, train station, ferry or cruise ship dock, or lodging establishment. Baggage handling resource allocator 147 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause multi-mode location allocator 148B to allocate resources for baggage items to be picked up from: a first moving vehicle to be delivered to a second moving vehicle and / or a moving vehicle to be delivered to a next moving vehicle. The baggage handling resource allocator 147 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the return home allocator 148C to allocate resources for baggage items to be picked up from the mobile vehicle location and delivered to the passenger's home or other designated address.

[0365] The baggage handling resource allocator 147 may include program instructions that, when executed, may allocate one or more entries in a baggage journey record for a registered passenger's baggage item to one or more baggage delivery resources to deliver or retrieve the baggage item to a location associated with the baggage journey location data.

[0366] With particular reference to FIG. 1B , the website 110 of the system 100 may communicate with one or more of a cruise line reservation system 60, an airline reservation system 62, a train reservation system 64, a bus reservation system 66, a rental car reservation system 68, and an accommodation reservation system 70. One or more of these reservation systems may be accessed to retrieve travel information for registered passengers associated with the TMI 128 of the registered passenger profile 122. The accommodation reservation system 70 may be associated with a hotel, lodging facility, or vacation spot that may have a parking facility (PK) 71 associated therewith. The parking facility 71 may include a computing system that connects to a scanner 75. The scanner 75 may scan vehicle license plates to detect and register vehicles entering the parking lot or garage. Typically, the owner or user of the vehicle may be charged a parking fee for the parking lot or garage.

[0367] In some scenarios, parking facilities may use facial recognition technology to identify vehicle owners or users, with or without license plate scanning.

[0368] The TMI 128 may include travel memberships to a travel management system (TMS) 72, such as Travelocity®. The system 100 may access the reservation system of the TMS 72 to obtain reservations and build travel itineraries. A registered passenger may have multiple TMS accounts, such as a TMS 74 for an online vacation rental platform or online travel booking engine. The system 100 may access each travel membership to determine the occurrence of the current travel itinerary.

[0369] In an embodiment, the system 100 via the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, may access one or more reservation systems to obtain a PNR number or itinerary confirmation number associated with a mode of travel carrier and enable the web server 112 to update multi-modal travel agent reservation data associated with the baggage travel leg of the baggage item for the current travel leg.

[0370] The MMBM programming module 120 may include a baggage journey record (BTJR) builder 150. The BTJR builder 150 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause a BTJR 154 to be generated for a registered passenger's baggage items. The BTJR 154 is created or constructed for a specific (current) journey based on a PNR number or itinerary confirmation number. For example, the BTJR 154 may include a PNR trigger 152 that may be entered by a registered passenger or received by the web server 112. Once the trigger is received, the programming instructions, when executed, cause a baggage manifest record 153 to be created for the current journey. An exemplary BTJR is described in connection with FIGS. 11A-11C. The trigger 152 may be received from a registered passenger when the registered passenger accesses their account and enters the current journey. In an embodiment, this may occur only upon registering the passenger and obtaining a global bag tag. In one or more embodiments, web server 112 can receive information regarding a booked travel itinerary (i.e., a PNR trigger) from either a reservation system associated with TMI 128 or a reservation system of TMS 72. For example, when a reservation system associated with TMI 128 or TMS 72 generates a PNR number for a registered passenger in system 100, a trigger can be sent to system 100 via web server 112.

[0371] The BTJR 154 may be based on whether the baggage item is being picked up at the registered passenger's home, office, or other designated location. The BTJR 154 may include baggage transfer locations for the first leg of travel, the second leg of travel, and / or the end-to-end journey record. Baggage transfer locations may include government-approved locations, such as customs, and one or more security screening locations.

[0372] The BTJR Builder 150 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the BTJR 154 to load BSM data for baggage items associated with the registered passenger and any unregistered passengers associated with the PNR number with which the registered passenger is associated.

[0373] Additionally, for the current travel itinerary, the BTJR builder 150 via the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can communicate with the cruise line reservation system 60, the airline reservation system 62, the train reservation system 64, and the bus reservation system 66 based on the passenger name record (PNR) number 142 or an itinerary confirmation number associated with one or more of the reservation systems. The BTJR builder 150 via the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can retrieve travel details such as flight number, flight date, flight arrival and departure data from the airline reservation system 62. The BTJR builder 150 via the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can retrieve travel details such as, by way of non-limiting example, the cruise voyage number, voyage date and time, and cabin number. The programming instructions can store the passenger's reservation in the passenger reservation database 121. Baggage travel details may match the passenger's reservation. However, the passenger may have specific instructions that make the specific routing of the baggage independent of the passenger's routing.

[0374] The BTJR builder 150 via the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can access reservations from a reservation system by accessing at least one travel membership number for a registered passenger associated with the TMI 128. The system 100 via the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can automatically search for a reservation associated with a travel membership number because the travel membership number's reservation system can store one or more reservations for a business. For example, a passenger may have a flight or travel mode reservation to, say, Orlando, Florida, and may have a travel membership with, say, Hilton® Corporation. The BTJR builder 150 via the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can automatically query the Hilton® Corporation's reservation system to find a reservation that matches the travel dates booked under the registered passenger name 143. However, if no such reservation is found, the system may send a communication to the passenger via email, phone, or text to determine whether other reservations have been booked. The passenger may have a travel membership with multiple accommodations. The BTJR Builder 150 via the web server 112 can include programming instructions that, when executed, can query a lodging reservation system that has a travel membership number of record for reservations in Orlando, Florida within a travel slot. The BTJR Builder 150 via the web server 112 can also include programming instructions that, when executed, can look for reservations within a specific radius of a mode of travel, such as an airline, cruise line, bus stop, or train station, for registered passengers in a travel slot.

[0375] The BTJR Builder 150 via the web server 112 may contain programming instructions that, when executed, may communicate with any reservation system for any mobile vehicle identified in the registered passenger profile 122 .

[0376] Use of a travel membership to access reservations provides the system with address and contact information for many accommodations associated with a single travel membership number, limiting the need to enter or remember accommodation addresses for a particular travel itinerary.

[0377] MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause baggage check-in module 155 to check in baggage based on the pick up from home process as described in FIG. 6A and the return home process using the return travel leg as described in FIG. 6B-6C. Baggage check-in module 155 may have access to return flight data associated with a PNR number or itinerary confirmation number. Baggage check-in module 155 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause baggage items to be checked in with a transport mode carrier, such as an airline, for the outbound flight and / or the return flight.

[0378] A passenger may check in for an airline flight using a mobile communication device or computing device. In some cases, baggage items for the passenger cannot be checked in until the passenger is checked in. In one or more embodiments, MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause passenger check-in module 163 to check in the passenger described in FIG. 10B. Passenger check-in module 163 may access return flight data associated with the PNR number or itinerary confirmation number.

[0379] The MMBM programming module 120 can include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the origin bag tag receiver 170 to receive an origin bag tag (O-BT) image 171 of a registered passenger origin bag tag license plate issued by an airline. A passenger can capture the O-BT image 171 of their bag tag license plate on an origin bag tag issued by an airline counter agent or the license plate on a marker sticker on the jacket of their boarding pass. The passenger can transmit the image to the system 100's web server 112 using a mobile communication device, laptop, notebook, or other computing device with a built-in camera and Internet, Wi-Fi, or wireless communication capabilities. The received image can be used, for example, to digitally create an A-BTI and access an Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) or another B-type message. The printed A-BTI can be digitally created using optical character recognition to convert the printed text of the A-BTI into the machine-coded text of the IATA license plate number. Alternatively, the passenger's mobile device may have a GUI that guides the user to scan the IATA barcode to digitally create machine-encoded text of the IATA license plate number that is sent to the web server 112.

[0380] The MMBM programming module 120 can include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the GTE-BSM link module 173 to use the digitally generated IATA license plate number from the O-BT image 171 to link the GTE-BSM 141 with an airline BSM from an airline, for example. The airline BSM (A-BSM) can populate various fields of data described in connection with FIG. 8. Data from the origin A-BSM can be merged into fields of the GTE-BSM that are not populated with permanent information.

[0381] The GTE-BSM link module 173 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can link together other messages of the registered passenger associated with the PNR number for the current travel leg and / or the travel mode of the unregistered passenger associated with the PNR number for the current travel leg. The GTE-BSM link module 173 may include programming instructions that, when executed, can link information in the registered passenger profile 122 to the GTE-BSM so that when the registered passenger's global baggage tag or IATA license plate number is scanned and the P-BTI on the global baggage tag or printed A-BTI is electronically created, the registered passenger's travel information can be accessed for at least one of the following: a) check in the registered passenger for a return flight, b) check in the registered passenger for a travel vehicle, c) obtain information for delivering the baggage item to its next scheduled location, d) obtain information for moving the baggage item concurrently and independently of its owner, and e) obtain baggage location information. For unregistered passengers, scanning the A-BTI on an IATA bag tag provides access to location data and other information based on the link to the P-BTI of a registered passenger.

[0382] The programming instructions for the GTE-BSM link module 173 will become more apparent based on the description of FIG. 9B.

[0383] MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause baggage journey booking tracker 175 to track reservation details to determine updates to any reservation fields. Baggage journey booking tracker 175 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause itinerary update log 177 to update itinerary update log 177 with baggage item movements, such as when a global bag tag 230 is scanned. For example, a departure time may change.

[0384] The baggage journey reservation tracker 175 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the messaging unit 178 to communicate status messages to the system, the computing devices of system personnel, and / or the passenger's designated communication device. The messaging unit 178 may provide a passenger with a message regarding a departure change or a change in the status of the owner's baggage item's location. In another example, the status of a room at an accommodation may change from unavailable to available. The messaging unit 178 may provide a passenger with a message regarding the availability of a room. For example, the room may be in the process of being serviced or cleaned and not ready for passenger occupancy. For a travel mode, a flight may have a gate change at an airport. The messaging unit 178 may provide a passenger with a message regarding a gate change for the passenger's flight or a change in the status of any travel vehicle.

[0385] The baggage journey booking tracker 175 may include programming instructions that, when executed, may periodically check the booking status of a booking associated with a travel journey record. For example, the baggage journey booking tracker 175 may check the travel journey record for updates to accommodation bookings. In one or more embodiments, the accommodation bookings may be based on information obtained from a reservation system associated with the registered passenger's accommodation travel membership. The baggage journey booking tracker 175 may obtain travel mode updates, such as, for example, airline gate changes, train stations, accommodation rooms, cancellations, etc.

[0386] In one or more embodiments, web server 112 can include programming instructions that, when executed, activate baggage journey booking tracker 175 during a baggage journey. A messaging component 178 of baggage journey booking tracker 175 can communicate baggage handling information regarding the transfer of the baggage item from the passenger to a baggage delivery resource to the passenger's mobile communication device. This can include communicating an acknowledgment or receipt to the passenger via messaging component 178 that their baggage item has been picked up. If the baggage item is not checked in with the airline at this time, an electronic receipt with the airline's IATA bag tag number is electronically communicated to the passenger's mobile communication or computing device by messaging component 178 when the baggage item is later checked in with the airline via baggage check-in module 155.

[0387] In one or more embodiments, the web server 112 may include programming instructions that, when executed, activate the baggage journey reservation tracker 175 during a baggage journey to communicate to the passenger's mobile communication device any changes to the reservation information related to the delivery of the baggage items to the specified location, which may include informing the passenger that their baggage items have been delivered to their room.

[0388] Messaging unit 178 may send, for example, a text message or an email.

[0389] The MMBM programming module 120 can include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the baggage recovery manager 180 to electronically locate and recover lost baggage items and manage the rerouting of found baggage items. As described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 14, baggage items can become lost, missing, rerouted, delayed, or mishandled after being deposited in a moving vehicle. The system 100 is configured to find and locate abnormal baggage items, keep passengers informed of their current status, and cooperate with the moving vehicle to expedite the transport of found baggage items and meet the passenger on their current route. The current route can be based on the passenger's current reservation information stored in the passenger reservation database 121.

[0390] The package recovery manager 180 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the package finder 181 to find abnormal package items.

[0391] In one or more embodiments, for example, those baggage items that have assigned / registered tracking devices 40 can be located using location data 984 (FIG. 9B) stored in movement history 184. In one or more embodiments, system 100 can receive, access, and / or store, from a computer system associated with an airline, type B messages of passengers registered with the airline and associated unregistered movements that occurred that day. The type B messages of those passengers in master movement manifest 109 (FIG. 1B) can be stored in type B message database 107 (FIG. 1B). As a non-limiting example, a mishandled or rerouted baggage item may be a delayed baggage item.

[0392] If a baggage item is determined to be missing, lost, rerouted, or mishandled, the baggage path data analyzer 182 can search and sort data from one or more Type B messages in the Type B message database 107 or tracking device data in the movement history 184 to find data representing locations, airports, or other indicators for finding and recovering the baggage item by determining the path taken by the baggage item.

[0393] Certain types of B-type messages, such as a Baggage Not Seen Message (BNS), may identify lost or unidentified baggage items. This message may be generated when it is determined that a baggage item was not loaded (seen) on the same plane as the passenger. However, by way of a non-limiting example, an abnormal baggage item cannot be determined until a baggage handler or passenger takes possession of the baggage item after it is supposed to have arrived at the airport. The B-type message database 107 may contain messages with data from the BHS 63B, which can be used to identify the current or last scanned location of an IATA bag tag on the baggage item. For example, a baggage item with an IATA bag tag matching a passenger name in the master movement manifest 109 may have been scanned at an airport other than the expected final destination airport for the passenger and / or baggage item. In another example, the baggage item may have been scanned at the same airport as the passenger's departure flight after the flight departed the airport and has not been scanned since. As can be appreciated, there are numerous scenarios of how baggage items can become lost, and describing every one would be prohibitive.

[0394] Alternatively or additionally, tracking device data in movement history 184 may be used to locate a package item.

[0395] The MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause a journey history tracker 183 to generate and store a member's travel history 184, including data for travel journeys including flights, rental cars, accommodations, other modes of travel, etc. To improve baggage allocation, the travel history data may be analyzed for data statistics. The travel history data may be used to push advertisements based on the registered passenger's travel history data. In one or more embodiments, the advertisements may be based on data analysis of the registered passenger's travel history data for their current travel journey. Data from the journey history tracker 183 may be used in data analysis to predict future resource scheduling. Data from the journey history tracker 183 may be used in data analysis based on destination BSM data linked to passenger history data to predict future business volume local to the airport.

[0396] The MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, may cause registered passengers to receive advertisements, for example, via an advertising application programming interface (API) 185 for communication to the messaging unit 178 or other communication modules for pushing advertisements to registered passengers based on current travel data (i.e., the BTJR 154) and / or data in the member's travel history 184. The travel history 184 data may be used by the travel member's company to offer member perks or discounts. The BTJR 154 may be used by the company to prepare advertisements for registered passengers to restaurants, venues, hotels, or other establishments for passengers traveling to or passing through locations within a radius of the location identified in the BTJR 154. For example, the BTJR 154 may identify lodging facilities. Restaurants within a certain radius of or near the lodging location may offer discounts to registered passengers. Entertainment venues may offer advertisements for special events or special meals for times when passengers are likely to be in the area with or without discounts. Other accommodations may offer advertisements as well. Advertisements may be sent via social media platforms linked to accounts associated with passengers on their mobile communication devices or personal computing devices. The BTJR 154 may be linked to the GTE-BSM (FIG. 9B).

[0397] Advertisements can be sent to messaging 178 via advertising API 185 to communicate advertisements to passengers' mobile communication devices via text or another computing device. Advertisements can be sent via email via messaging 178 or another communication module. Advertisements can be sent as a window overlay within an application being viewed by passengers interacting with their mobile communication devices or personal computing devices.

[0398] The MMBM programming module 120 may include programming instructions that, when executed, cause the baggage tracker registration module 190 to register or assign wireless trackers affixed to baggage items. A tracker (i.e., a tracking device) may have a tracking device identifier (ID) stored on the tracker or tracking device.

[0399] The baggage item may also be fitted with a global bag tag. In one or more embodiments, the baggage item may be equipped with a wireless tracking device 40 (FIG. 1A) provided by the passenger. By way of non-limiting example, the wireless tracking device 40 may be a tracking device that may include an accelerometer (ACC) and / or gyroscope 1282 (FIG. 12), a global positioning system (GPS) 1280 (FIG. 12), and / or an inertial navigation unit (INU) 1284 (FIG. 12) to determine its own location, and such location may be transmitted to a journey history tracker 183, where the received geographic location of the baggage item is recorded. The wireless tracking device 40 may have a unique identifier, such as a registered serial number, a media access control (MAC) address, or another assigned unique identifier. The wireless tracking device 40 may be programmed with a unique identifier for the passenger and / or baggage item, such as a passenger name, a PNR number, a super PNR number, an IATA license plate number, a portion of data from a B-type message, or any combination thereof. The wireless tracking device 40 can be programmed with the GMMT bag tag number.

[0400] The wireless tracking device 40 may be an AIRTAG by APPLE Inc., a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracker, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) tracker, a GSM-5G tracker, a Wi-Fi enabled communication device, a BLUETOOTH Low Energy (BLE) device, a BLUETOOTH enabled communication device, a short-range RF communication device and / or a long-range communication device using a compatible wireless communication protocol.

[0401] The wireless tracking device 40 may be configured for short-range communication, such as, but not limited to, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and Bluetooth. Mobile vehicles, carrier stations, and other public infrastructure may include remote network devices that can connect to the wireless tracking device 40.

[0402] In one or more embodiments, the wireless tracking device 40 may be temporarily assigned to a baggage item by a processor of the MMBM system 100. In one or more embodiments, the wireless tracking device 40 may be permanently assigned by a processor of the MMBM system 100. In one or more embodiments, the wireless tracking device 40 may be assigned by a computer system associated with the airline.

[0403] The wireless tracking device 40 may include long-range communication devices such as, but not limited to, AIRTAG by APPLE Inc., Global Positioning System (GPS) trackers, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) trackers, and GSM-5G trackers, and may communicate with cellular, satellite, and GSM communication service providers. The geographic location signal may be transmitted to a web server 112 or other designated computing device for access by a journey history tracker 183 where the received geographic location of the package item is recorded. In one or more embodiments, the long-range communication device may also be configured to communicate using a short-range communication protocol.

[0404] The wireless tracking device 40 can be used to track its location while in motion using any mode of travel or modes of travel using long-range or short-range communication, depending on the configuration of the wireless tracking device 40.

[0405] The system 100 may include a capture device 195 (i.e., scanning device, mobile communication device, video-enabled computing device, RF communication device) that can scan IATA compliant license plates, including origin hard copy bag tags, global bag tags, marker tags, bingo tags, RFID displays, etc. The capture device 195 may provide a geographic location code in a communication that includes a digitally created bag tag identifier (BTI) (i.e., A-BTI or P-BTI).

[0406] As a non-limiting example, the capture device 195 can communicate a registered serial number, Media Access Control (MAC) address, or other unique identifier to the web server 112 of the system 100. The capture device 195 can electronically capture a representation of the GMMT bag tag number on the substrate at a location associated with location data derived by the capture device 195. The capture device 195 can be, for example, a computing device or another computing system configured to generate an electronic communication to the web server 112. The communication can include tracking information, which can include Global Positioning System (GPS) location data associated with the capture device 195, a time, a date, and the GMMT bag tag number. The system 100 can record the tracking information, including the current location of the package item, in the travel journey log 177.

[0407] Permanent Bag Tag Identifier (P-BTI) Generation 2A illustrates a flowchart of a method 200 for generating a Permanent Bag Tag Identifier (P-BTI) according to an embodiment. The method 200 may include, at block 202, generating, by a processor, a P-BTI generator 133 that is compatible with an IATA license plate or a permanent unique identifier or permanent license plate (P-LP) 136. At block 202, both a number and a barcode may be created.

[0408] Method 200 may include, by a processor, determining whether travel membership information (TMI) is present, at block 204. If the determination at block 204 is yes, method 200 may include, by a processor, retrieving the TMI, at block 206. Method 200 may include, by a processor, generating a PMM code 138 based on the TMI, at 208.

[0409] Method 200 may include, at block 210, determining, by the processor, whether there is another travel member listed in the travel member information. If the determination at block 210 is "yes," the method may return to block 206. Blocks 206, 208, and 210 are repeated for one or more travel members in the travel member information. If the determination at block 210 is "no," method 200 may include, by the processor, assembling a P-BTI.

[0410] If the determination at block 204 is "no," the method 200 may loop to block 212, where a P-BTI is assembled by the processor.

[0411] The method 200 may include, at block 214, determining by the processor whether the registered passenger has another baggage item. If the determination at block 214 is no, the method 200 may include, at block 216, setting by the processor the first P-BTI as the main BTI. If the determination at block 214 is yes, the method 200 may include, at block 216, setting by the processor the first P-BTI as the main BTI. The same P-BTI may be used for multiple baggage items for the registered passenger. The baggage items may be virtually linked using an image of the second baggage item stored in the registered passenger profile 122.

[0412] FIG. 2B illustrates a global bag tag 230 with a permanent bag tag identifier (P-BTI) according to an embodiment. The global bag tag 230 may include, for example, a P-BTI 236 that complies with IATA rules. The P-BTI 236 may be a 10-digit license plate with an adjacent barcode 240. In this example, the digits "000" are used as an airline code, such as a code for an inactive airline. Other codes for inactive airlines may be used. Additionally, if the P-BTI is assigned by an airline, its IATA airline code is used. The digit "7" is a leading digit used in IATA license plate numbers, but is not limited to this. The digits "123456" may represent a permanent passenger baggage identification number.

[0413] License plates can be expanded to include other numbers. In this example, the two-digit letter code "TT" in P-BTI236' can represent the two-letter airline code of a non-operational airline. The numbers "123456" represent a permanent passenger baggage number. P-BTI236' can be a 10-digit license plate with an adjacent barcode 240'.

[0414] The PMM code 238 uses the digits "AAA" which are only representative to represent the difference between the P-BTI 236 or 236' and the PMM code 238. The PMM code 238 may have a barcode 242 or a QR code. The PMM code may use other encoding methods such as alphanumeric code digits of 1 to 10 digits in length, such as 1 to 3 digits, 1 to 5 digits, and 1 to 8 digits.

[0415] When creating the P-BTI, a two-digit airline code or a three-digit code may be associated with the airline code if the airline is not flying. In other embodiments, the two-digit carrier code may be a code assigned by IATA or other regulatory body that assigns carrier codes to airlines or other entities. The global bag tag 230 may include the passenger name 246 associated with the registered passenger to whom the P-BTI is assigned for repeated use across multiple airlines and multiple flights. The P-BTI may be readable by the airport infrastructure's BHS 63B, but more importantly, it can be read if the origin bag tag or other airline bag tagging system is damaged or lost.

[0416] According to one or more embodiments, the P-BTI may include a code representing the issuer of the GMMT bag tag number 250. The code may be associated with an airline, a defunct airline, or a baggage handling service.

[0417] The GMMT bag tag number 250 may include a two-letter airline code and six digits or a three-digit airline code and six digits. The six digits represent the passenger bag number. In one or more embodiments, the passenger bag number conceals the passenger's personal information. As IATA license plate numbers expand, GMMT bag tag numbers may also expand. For example, a two-letter airline code code may be developed. A three-digit airline code numeric code may expand over time. The six digits of the passenger bag number may be expanded in length, or both alphanumeric characters and numbers may be used instead of simply numbers.

[0418] The computing device or web server 112 can communicate with a printing device or other machine to form a GMMT code representation on the substrate 233 that represents the GMMT bag tag number 250. The GMMT code representation can include an IATA license plate number and an IATA barcode representing the license plate number. The GMMT code representation can include a PMM code that can include a PMM number and a PMM barcode representing the PMM number.

[0419] In one or more embodiments, the global bag tag 230 may include a tracking device 40', shown as a dashed circle. In this example, the global bag tag 230 may include a housing with an enclosure for enclosing the tracking device 40'. The tracking device 40' may include a patch antenna. The GPS-5G tracking device may connect to one or more range-adaptive radio frequency networks for cell tower positioning, Wi-Fi positioning, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) positioning, and Bluetooth low energy.

[0420] The tracking device may be configured to connect to an ad-hoc connection, such as when WI-FI or cellular towers are not available.

[0421] FIG. 2C shows a flowchart of a method 270 for forming a global bag tag according to an embodiment.

[0422] Method 270 may include generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number 250 for the registered passenger's baggage item. The GMMT bag tag number 250 may comprise a permanently assigned license plate that complies with IATA regulations for a period that is renewable or expires after a predetermined validity period or upon death, at block 272. The predetermined validity period may range from one month up to one year, one month up to three years, one month up to five years, one month up to ten years, one month up to 20 years, or upon death.

[0423] The method 270 may include, at block 274, generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) 900 including the GMMT bag tag number 250 and the passenger name of the registered passenger.

[0424] At block 276, the method 270 may include printing, by a printing device, a GMMT code representation representing the GMMT bag tag number 250 on a substrate 233 to be affixed to the luggage item to form a global bag tag 230 (FIG. 2B).

[0425] Tracking Devices - Geographic Location It is estimated that 684,000 pieces of luggage were lost or mishandled by major U.S. airlines in the first quarter of 2022. [Jake Hardiman and Anita Gallagher, “Luggage items g Why & How Often Does Luggage Get Lost?”, updated May 22, 2023, www.simpleflying.com / why-and-how-often-does-luggage-get-lost / .] Many attempts have been made to track luggage, but these have failed for various reasons.

[0426] While RFID bag tags can be used to track baggage items along their route through an airport, this solution presents two challenges. The first challenge is that every airport would need to be retrofitted with RFID receivers, and every bag tag would need to be RFID-enabled. This solution is very expensive, and it would take years to upgrade every airport to be able to track the baggage of millions of passengers with RFID technology. The second challenge is that RFID technology may be limited to airport infrastructure and cannot provide extended baggage tracking outside the airport or in a multi-modal structure.

[0427] Another tracking feature is a user tracking device. Users can use various tracking devices that interface with their mobile communication device to, for example, display the location of a baggage item on a map. However, this type of tracking has been known to pose challenges for users and airports to correlate locations within the airport infrastructure when using Google Maps or another road map layout. In some cases, passengers need to quickly identify the location of a baggage item before moving on to another mode of travel. Another challenge is the ability of user-based tracking devices to communicate when underground, such as when being processed through airport infrastructure.

[0428] In one or more embodiments, the global bag tag 230 may include a tracking device 40'.

[0429] In one or more embodiments, the tracking device may be configured to perform multiple modes or functions.

[0430] 3A shows a flowchart of a method 300A for assigning a tracking device 40 and initiating tracking of a baggage item, according to an embodiment. Method 300A may include, at block 302A, affixing the tracking device 40 to a baggage item. Method 300A may include, at block 304A, assigning, by a processor, the tracking device 40 to the baggage item. The assigning may include programming, by the processor, the tracking device having at least one of a PNR number, an IATA license plate number, or a GMMT bag tag number in memory. In an example, the assigning may include programming, by the processor, BSM information including a reference indicator into the tracking device. The assigning may include, by the processor, programming, by the processor, a tracking device ID into the tracking device, or alternatively, receiving, by the processor, the tracking device ID from the tracking device.

[0431] The tracking device may be programmed with or configured to receive a travel authorization number. For example, in one or more embodiments, the travel authorization number may include a PNR number. For example, in one or more embodiments, the travel authorization number may include an IATA license plate number. For example, the travel authorization number may include a GMMT bag tag number in one or more embodiments.

[0432] However, in operation, the travel request number (information) may be received by the tracking device after assignment or configuration, as described below in connection with Figures 16A-16E and 17A-17D.

[0433] Block 304A may include, at block 306A, determining by a processor whether the tracking device 40 is remotely assigned. For example, the tracking device may be assigned by a baggage handling service that picks up the baggage item from the passenger's or traveler's home or other designated address and transports the baggage item to an airport or another mobile vehicle. If the determination at block 306A is "no," the path from block 306A may end at block 307A. If the determination at block 306A is "yes," method 300A may include, at block 312A, obtaining BSM information from the airline. The BSM information may be from the BSM of the originating air carrier. The BSM information may be from a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM), which links the baggage item's Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number with one of the PNR number or IATA license plate number. However, airline BSM information may be available if the passenger has checked in with the airline using a personal computing device or mobile communications device. In an example, itinerary information can be remotely programmed into the tracking device, which may include a PNR number, reservation number, or other itinerary confirmation number from the travelling vehicle's itinerary.

[0434] Method 300A may include, at block 308A, determining by the processor whether the tracking device 40 is assigned from the destination airport / location. If the determination at block 308A is "no," the method from block 308A may end at block 307A. If the determination at block 308A is "yes," method 300A may include, for example, at block 314A, obtaining BSM information from a destination BSM. The BSM may be an airline destination BSM. The tracking device may also be programmed with the information described in connection with block 312A. In embodiments, the tracking device may be offered as a service to passengers, as a reward for frequently purchasing cruises or staying at specific hotels (i.e., moving vehicles).

[0435] Block 304A may include, at block 310A, determining by a processor of system 100 whether the tracking device 40 has been assigned by the originating airport. If the determination at block 310A is "no," the method from block 310A may end at block 311A. If the determination at block 310A is "yes," method 300A may include, for example, at block 316A, by a processor obtaining A-BSM information from the originating air carrier BSM. In an example, an airline may offer a tracking device for a travel journey as a service to a passenger. The travel journey may be one-way or round-trip. The tracking device may be assigned at a counter by an airline agent. In another embodiment, the tracking device may be offered as a service to a passenger at another time, such as as a reward for frequent flyer status. In another embodiment, the tracking device may be offered as a service to a passenger for always flying first class.

[0436] Block 304A may include, during the allocation process, loading, by the processor, in block 318A, the BSM information or information obtained in one of blocks 312A, 314A, or 316A into the tracking device.

[0437] In an example, the loaded information from the BSM may include the IATA license plate number of each baggage item associated with a registered passenger. In an example, the loaded information from the BSM includes the IATA license plate numbers of baggage items associated with unregistered passengers that share the same PNR number. If the airline computing system assigns a tracking device, the tracking device is loaded into a processor associated with the airline's computer system. In an example, the processor may be a processor of system 100.

[0438] In an example, the method 300A may include, at block 320A, loading, by a processor of the system 100, tracking device information into the GTE-BSM.

[0439] In an example, the method 300A may include, at block 322A, loading, by the processor, the tracking device information into a B-type message. The B-type message may be a BPM, BCM, BTM, or other IATA B-type compliant message. The B-type message may be generated by the system 100 or another designated entity or computer system associated with the airline or airport. The tracking device information may include a tracking device ID. The tracking device ID may be permanent or assigned.

[0440] B-type messages carrying information related to tracking devices may be used by baggage handling systems to recognize tracking devices and signals emanating from such tracking devices within the baggage handling system. B-type messages carrying information related to tracking devices may be used within security screening areas to recognize authorized tracking devices within the area.

[0441] In an example, method 300A may include, at block 324A, initiating tracking of the baggage item with the tracking device by a processor of system 100 or other computer system designated for tracking. For example, an airline may have a designated computer system for tracking tracking devices on baggage items.

[0442] In an example, the method 300A may include, at block 326A, locating, by the tracking device, available wireless communication platforms for establishing a communication connection. The tracking device may include a GPS-GSM communication device configured to receive Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals. The tracking device may be configured to communicate with a Wi-Fi wireless communication platform, a Bluetooth wireless communication platform, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless communication platform, a cellular wireless communication platform, a GSM-5G wireless communication platform, a long-range communication platform, a short-range communication platform, a radio frequency identification communication platform, and a short-range communication platform. In one or more embodiments, the tracking device may establish a wireless RF communication connection using an ad hoc protocol or connect with an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The tracking device may be configured to communicate using one of the wireless communication platforms and transmit location information to a network interface of a computing system.

[0443] In an example, the method 300A may include, at block 328A, obtaining location information by the tracking device, and, at block 330A, transmitting, by the tracking device, the location information through an available wireless communication connectivity platform.

[0444] The tracking device may include an inertial navigation system (INS) for environments where a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is unavailable. In environments where a GNSS is unavailable, the acquired location information can be obtained from the INS. The tracking device may include a global positioning system (GPS) unit. If available, the tracking device may include other location determination protocols or location-derivable locations based on the location of surrounding devices, such as IoT devices, BLUETOOTH-enabled or RF access points. IoT device BLUETOOTH-enabled or RF access points can be found, for example, in hotels, cruise ships, airports, restaurants, stores, and buildings. RF access points can support various RF communication platforms, including, but not limited to, Wi-Fi or GSM-5G communication protocols.

[0445] If underground, the tracking device may use a mobile ad-hoc communication protocol, as the airport staff device may be an ad-hoc node for distributing location information from underground to either a wired or wireless communication network above ground.

[0446] The location information may be transmitted to a network interface of a computing system associated with at least one processor of the system 100, a computer system designated to track the tracking device, or a computer system associated with an airline or other moving vehicle. The location information may include location coordinate data of the tracking device and information loaded from the BSM.

[0447] In addition to providing location information, the tracking device can operate in other modes to interact with devices in moving vehicles, including but not limited to kiosks, RFID receivers, baggage handling systems, passenger mobile communication devices, etc.

[0448] By way of non-limiting example, the tracking device may be collected or removed at the end of a travel segment, such as the end of a flight, a cruise, a lodging stay, etc. After removal, the tracking device may be reprogrammed for a different baggage item of a different passenger, for example, to be reused for a travel mode.

[0449] In one or more embodiments, a tracking device may be assigned to an entire trip that includes multiple modes of travel, and at the end of the trip, the detached tracking device may be reprogrammed, for example, for a different passenger's luggage item, for reuse during the entire trip.

[0450] 3B shows a flowchart of a method 300B for tracking baggage items, according to an embodiment. Method 300B may include determining whether a baggage tracking device is present (i.e., wireless tracking device 40). If the determination at block 302B is "no," method 300B may end at block 303B. If the determination at block 302B is "yes," method 300B may include entering the registered passenger's baggage tracking device information into a registered passenger profile at block 304B.

[0451] The method 300B may include, at block 306B, determining whether the passenger is on a current journey. If the determination at block 306B is "no," the method 300B may return to the beginning of block 306B. If the determination at block 306B is "yes," the method 300B may, at block 308B, obtain geographic location data by a baggage tracking device on the baggage item. The method 300B may include, at 310B, recording the obtained geographic location data in a journey history tracker.

[0452] Contactless Parking 4A shows a flowchart of a method 400 for contactless parking payment, according to an embodiment. The system 100 may allow registered passengers (i.e., registered users) to store data in their registered passenger profile 122, which enables contactless parking payment when the registered user drives a vehicle to a hotel, resort, or lodging facility.

[0453] Currently, parking lots allow users to pay for parking in advance by exiting their vehicle and paying at a dedicated payment machine or kiosk. However, there may be long lines waiting to use the payment machine. In other instances, users feel uneasy when they are in the dark or in an unknown location. Furthermore, at other times, the machine may malfunction or the user's payment method may not be accepted for various reasons. In consideration of these reasons, users can download an application for the parking lot to pay for parking. However, each parking lot owned by a different company may require a different application to be downloaded to the mobile device. This may be even more difficult if the user is an out-of-town traveler who does not have direct knowledge of the parking lot / garage owner to obtain the application.

[0454] Parking can be more difficult when popular events are held at the venue. Nearby parking lots and garages can fill up quickly. Finding available parking can be difficult because a person may have to move from one floor to another to find that a parking space is unavailable. In one or more embodiments, a computing system at the parking lot or garage can send information representing available parking to a processor of system 100.

[0455] The method 400 may include, at block 402, determining whether a registered user has signed up for the contactless parking payment service in a registered user profile (i.e., registered passenger profile 122, FIGS. 1A-1B). The registered user profile may store a global multi-modal travel bag tag number associated with the registered user's luggage item.

[0456] If the determination at block 402 is "no," method 400 may end at block 403. If the determination at block 402 is "yes," method 400 may include, at block 404, entering a vehicle license plate number (VLPN) 196 of a registered passenger (i.e., a registered user or registered traveler) into a registered passenger profile 122. The VLPN 196 may be entered using the passenger registration GUI 124. Method 400 may enable a user or traveler (i.e., a passenger) to pre-register their vehicle for contactless parking payment services. However, the user or traveler may alternatively rent a car, as described below.

[0457] In one or more embodiments, a user may provide a license plate image of their vehicle license plate, and the processor may use computer vision or machine learning algorithms to convert the digits into machine-encoded, readable text and store the text digits as an enrolled VLPN.

[0458] For example, a registered user may be traveling in their vehicle to a hotel, resort, or lodging facility. The hotel, resort, or lodging facility may have a vehicle license plate scanner that determines the vehicle's entry into the parking lot. System 100 may allow the user to pay for parking without having to use a credit card or validate a parking ticket with the hotel, resort, or lodging facility. The scanned license plate, read by scanner 75 (FIG. 1B) at a parking garage associated with the hotel, resort, or lodging facility or a vendor of the hotel, resort, or lodging facility, may then be transmitted to web server 112 for payment of the parking fee. In one or more embodiments, system 100 may offer discounts on parking fees or other member value points that may be transferred toward services provided directly or indirectly by system 100.

[0459] Method 400 may include, at block 406, determining whether the registered user has a reservation, such as by PNR number or from TMI information received from a reservation system. The reservation may be for a hotel, a resort, or a lodging facility, for example. The reservation may be for a rental car. For simplicity, in this example, "reservation" may also look for information that matches demographic information stored as PI129. Matched information may include information that may include location data, historical data from past events attended or registered for via hotel reservations, etc. Method 400 may include, at block 407, determining whether the registered user has a hotel reservation. If the determination is "no," method 400 may proceed to block 409.

[0460] In one or more embodiments, the TMI information may be received before or after the VPLN information is received from the parking system's computing device by a process of system 100 in block 406. A PNR database 63C (FIG. 1B) may be accessed using the PNR number. In block 406, method 400 may include, by a processor of system 100, querying a hotel reservation system associated with a hotel company to determine whether a hotel reservation exists for the traveler. In one or more embodiments, in block 406, method 400 may include, by a processor of system 100, accessing stored PMM travel information stored in a traveler profile to obtain the reservation information. In block 406, method 400 may include, by a processor of system 100, querying demographic information, membership, and travel history 184. In block 406, method 400 may include, by a processor of system 100, querying recent purchases of tickets to sporting events, entertainment events, conferences, trade shows, etc. The associated information from these purchases can be used to identify dates, locations and time slots when parking sports may be required.

[0461] If the determination at block 406 is no, then at block 409, it may be determined whether the user has identified to track their location. If the determination at block 409 is no, then method 400 may end at block 403. If the determination at block 409 is yes, then method 400 may proceed to block 411, as described below. It should be understood that in block 409, if the user provides permission to track the location of their mobile communication device on any leg of the journey or locally to get to an event, then system 100 may be used to find parking, for example.

[0462] If the determination at block 407 is yes, the method 400 may include determining whether a rental car reservation is found at block 408. The rental car reservation may have been received from TMI information or a query by a processor of the system 100. If the determination at block 408 is no, the method 400 may set the current VLPN to the VLPN stored in the registered passenger profile 122 at block 410. If the determination at block 408 is yes, the method 400 may include receiving the rental car (RC) license plate number (LPN) at block 412. In one or more embodiments, it may be determined whether there is a match between the registered traveler's rental car reservation and a hotel reservation, for example, during an overlapping time frame.

[0463] In one or more embodiments, the rental car license plate number may be received via a reservation system. In one or more embodiments, the rental car license plate number may be received by the system's processor from a registered user's or traveler's mobile communication device. The license plate may be registered under the contactless parking service feature. As a non-limiting example, a registered user may capture an image of the rental car's license plate and send it to system 100 for registration under the contactless parking service feature. Because this is a rental car, the use of the license plate may be valid for the duration (i.e., time window) of the rental car reservation, for example.

[0464] The processor may, for example, use a computer vision or machine vision algorithm to convert the digits in the image into machine-encoded, readable text. The text of the VLPN associated with the rental car may be stored in a registered passenger profile. Method 400 may include storing, by the processor, the digits of the registered VLPN associated with the rental car.

[0465] The method 400 may include, at block 414, setting the current VLPN to the rental car's (RC) license plate number (LPN).

[0466] The method 400 may include, at block 416, receiving, by the processor, information representative of the captured VLPN from a parking garage scanner 75 in communication with a computing device of the hotel, resort, or lodging facility's parking system.

[0467] In one or more embodiments, the parking garage may include a scanner for capturing the face of the vehicle driver. The computing system of the PK 71 may perform facial recognition to recognize and match the driver's identity. The computing system of the PK 71 may transmit facial identification information or an image to the processor of the system 100. In one or more embodiments, the computing system of the PK 71 may transmit information regarding the availability of parking spots to the system 100. For simplicity, the processor of the system 100 may communicate with the computing systems of other parking lots or parking garages to determine their availability. These parking lots and garages may enable contactless parking through the system 100 by communicating the VLPN, driver identification information, or facial image pursuant to contractual agreements.

[0468] At block 417, method 400 may include determining, by a processor of system 100, whether there is a match with a VLPN and / or face (i.e., identifying information) stored in profile 122. If the determination at block 417 is yes, method 400 may proceed to block 418. At block 418, method 400 may include notifying the user of the match via the user's mobile communication device. In this case, the amount of the parking fee may also be sent to the user.

[0469] Method 400 may include, at block 420, debiting or charging the user's (i.e., user's) account (i.e., credit card or banking information) using a payment method recorded in the registered passenger profile 122 by a processor of system 100. Method 400 may include, at block 422, paying the hotel, resort, lodging facility, or corresponding parking facility 71 (FIG. 1B) by a processor of system 100. Block 422 may include having a financial institution transmit funds via a bank Automated Clearing House (ACH) network to an account for the hotel, resort, lodging facility, or corresponding parking facility 71 (FIG. 1B). Alternatively, method 400 may record the usage of the service and the amount of the parking fee.

[0470] If the determination at block 417 is "no," method 400 may proceed to block 424, where the traveler may be notified of the results of the match via their mobile communication device. Method 400 may proceed from block 417 to block 403, where the process may end.

[0471] Returning to block 411, the system 100, with the user's permission, can track the location of the user's mobile communication device. The GUI of the system 100, in block 411, can allow the system to find parking for an event, etc., automatically or at the user's request.

[0472] Method 400 may include, at block 413, identifying a parking location (i.e., a parking lot or garage) by a processor of system 100. Identifying the location of the parking spot may include causing the processor of the system to display the location on a map displayed on a display screen that displays the current location of the user's mobile communication device. The processor of system 100 may use the current location data of the mobile communication device to indicate the proximity of the parking spot and directions to the parking spot. In one or more embodiments, the processor of system 100 may use the current location data of the mobile communication device to indicate the proximity of multiple parking spots and directions to the parking spot. The multiple parking spots may be ranked by proximity to the user's current location. The multiple parking spots may be ranked by proximity to the location of an event. The multiple parking spots may be ranked by parking fee. Metadata such as proximity data, parking fee, and directions may be overlaid on the map.

[0473] 4B shows a flowchart of a method 430 for accessing B-type messages of travelers using contactless parking payment, according to an embodiment. The B-type messages may be generated by the BHS 63B (FIG. 1B) and stored, for example, on a computing system associated with the airline the passenger is traveling with. In one or more embodiments, the system 100 may receive the B-type messages and sort the messages based on a master travel manifest.

[0474] In one or more embodiments, the method 430 may include, at block 432, matching the B-type message to a registered passenger in the master movement manifest 109 with a registered passenger record created by a processor of the system 100 from the registered passenger profile 122 for multi-modal movement management. The B-type message may be stored in the B-type message database 107. In this case, the match may include a match to at least one of the following: passenger name, PNR number, or IATA bag tag number. For example, the passenger may not be using a baggage handling service and transporting their own baggage. In one or more embodiments, the passenger may allow the baggage handling service to bring their baggage items to the cruise ship for transportation or special handling while staying at a hotel overnight or more before embarking on the voyage.

[0475] Method 430 may include determining, by a processor of system 100, at block 434, that the B-type message is a terminal baggage source message to the destination airport. If the determination at block 434 is "no," method 430 ends at block 436.

[0476] If the determination at block 434 is "yes," the B-type message indicates that the baggage item has completed its journey from the perspective of the current airport. However, the registered passenger may have hotel reservations and / or rental car reservations and may be traveling independently of their baggage item. The reservations may have been obtained from a corresponding reservation computing system or by querying a computing system using PMM information. In this case, method 430 may loop to FIG. 4A to determine at block 402 whether the registered passenger is registered for contactless parking payment.

[0477] The method of FIG. 4B can be used for travelers using an airline segment followed by a hotel stay. The method of FIG. 4A can be used alone, such as when travelers use their own car or rental car to travel along the segment to a hotel, resort, or lodging. A master manifest may include one or more master manifests. A master manifest may include a manifest for travelers traveling by airline. A master manifest may include a manifest for travelers traveling by train. A master manifest may include a manifest for travelers traveling by bus. A master manifest may include a manifest for travelers traveling by ground vehicle, such as a rental car. A master manifest may include a manifest for travelers booking lodging, a cruise ship, or other traveling vehicle.

[0478] Baggage Inventory Record 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method 500 for generating and / or updating a baggage manifest record, according to an embodiment. The method 500 may include, at block 502, acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, a representation of a substrate Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) code representation associated with a permanent bag tag on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger. The GMMT code representation may match an IATA license plate.

[0479] The method 500 may include, at block 504, accessing, by the processor, from a computer system associated with the multi-mode baggage handling service, a GTE-BSM including the passenger name record (PNR) number of the registered passenger using a unique identifier representing the created digital GMMT data record.

[0480] The method 500 may include, at block 506, retrieving, by the processor, reservation information for a travel segment having the registered passenger's travel mode from a computing system associated with the travel mode based on the PNR number.

[0481] In one or more embodiments, block 506 may include, by the processor, using information associated with the PNR number to retrieve check-in information for the registered passenger's return leg with the specified return travel carrier. A baggage manifest record may be populated with the retrieved check-in information for the return leg.

[0482] In one or more embodiments, the step of block 506 may include retrieving, by the processor, reservation information for a travel segment having the registered passenger's travel mode from a computing system associated with the travel mode based on the PNR number.

[0483] The steps in block 506 may include one or more of: querying, by a processor, a reservation system associated with an airline for the location of the baggage journey's destination airport; querying, by a processor, a reservation system associated with a hotel company for the location of a hotel reservation for the baggage journey; and querying, by a processor, a reservation system associated with a cruise line company for the location of a cruise reservation for the baggage journey. The querying of the reservation system for the PMM journey information and any discovered reservation data can be used to construct the baggage journey record shown in Figures 11A-11C.

[0484] The step of block 506 may include entering at least one of destination airport location information, hotel reservation location information, and cruise reservation location information into the baggage itinerary record. In one or more embodiments, the reservation information may include an airline reservation.

[0485] At block 507, the method 500 may include, by the processor, linking the GTE-BSM of the registered passenger to at least one Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) for each baggage item, including a first baggage item, associated with the registered passenger in the GTE-BSM, each baggage item having a corresponding A-BSM, the A-BSM including the IATA license plate number of the registered passenger's baggage item.

[0486] The step of block 507 may include, by a processor, accessing an airline baggage source message (A-BSM) stored in a memory device coupled to a computer system associated with the air mobile carrier, merging one or more fields of the A-BSM into a GTE-BSM, and storing, indexing, or addressing the GTE-BSM with the merged fields of the A-BSM in the computer system of the multi-mode baggage handling service. While the foregoing is directed to linking with airline messages, the disclosure is not limited thereto and may encompass adding other message types or information obtained from databases of other travel modes or mobile vehicles.

[0487] The method 500 may include entering, by a processor, a baggage manifest record at one or more of a destination airport location, a hotel reservation location, or a cruise reservation location. Other modes of travel may include train, bus, and / or ferry vehicle.

[0488] The method 500 may include, at block 508, automatically creating, by the processor, a baggage manifest record from one or more of the booking information, the GTE-BSM, or the PNR number.

[0489] Method 500 may include, at block 510, determining by the processor whether another passenger is part of or associated with the PNR number in addition to the registered passenger name. If the determination at block 510 is "no," method 500 may end at block 512. If the determination at block 510 is "yes," method 500 may include, at block 514, linking the registered passenger's GTE-BSM to each travel passenger name associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM.

[0490] In a scenario where the reservation information includes an airline reservation, the step of block 514 may include linking, by the processor, the GTE-BSM of the registered passenger to each Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) for each baggage item for each moving passenger name (unregistered passenger) associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM, each baggage item having a corresponding A-BSM. For other moving vehicles, other messages may be added to the GTE-BSM for each moving passenger name associated with the PNR number.

[0491] The method 500 may include, at block 516, creating, by the processor, a baggage manifest record for each baggage item of each traveling passenger linked to the GTE-BSM. The baggage manifest record may include the names of registered passengers and each unregistered passenger.

[0492] Baggage manifest records may be merged with passenger manifest records in the manifest. In one or more embodiments, the manifest may be associated with a mode of travel (i.e., a travel vehicle).

[0493] Check-in for the original travel section 6A illustrates a system 600 for digitizing baggage management and baggage check-in, according to an embodiment. System 600 may be part of system 100, in one or more embodiments. System 600 may include those elements / components below dashed line BB. However, the system may also include global bag tags 230 affixed to passenger baggage items, shown above dashed line BB.

[0494] The system 600 may include at least one first processor 610 and at least one second processor 626 in wired or wireless communication with each other. The at least one second processor 626 may be connected to a tangible, non-transitory memory storage device 690. The system 600 may include at least one baggage storage location 634 for temporarily storing baggage items. The system 600 may include another computing device 648 for obtaining bag tag identifiers or other information affixed to the baggage items, as described below. The second processor 626 may communicate with one of the computing systems 628 over a network 624, such as the Internet or a public communications network. The second processor 626 may communicate with another computing system for which a passenger has booked a journey segment.

[0495] In one or more embodiments, system 600 can interface with system 100 to receive and link the P-BTI to information in registered passenger profile 122 (FIGS. 1A-1B). The terms "registered passenger profile," "registered traveler profile," and "registered user profile" may be used interchangeably herein. For multi-modal travel journeys, baggage items 614 tagged with global bag tags 230 can be picked up at any designated location entered by registered passenger 616, for example, which can be entered using a graphical user interface on a computing device or mobile communications device.

[0496] The first processor 610 may be a scanner or capture device for scanning the P-BTI 236 or 236′ on the global bag tag 230, from which a representation of the P-BTI 236 on the substrate is obtained. The first processor 610 may capture an image of the registered passenger's driver's license 982 ( FIG. 9B ) or identification (ID) 620 to verify the registered passenger's identity. For trains, buses, and cruise ships, baggage items may not need to be checked in within a specific window. Thus, baggage items may be transported to a baggage storage location 634 before being transported to their destination for loading onto the train, bus, or cruise ship. However, airline modes of travel restrict check-in windows for both passengers and baggage items.

[0497] In one or more embodiments, the first processor 610 may receive a PNR number 630 or other identifier from a confirmed itinerary 718 ( FIG. 7 ) for a flight of at least one airline. The itinerary or reservation data may be stored in a PNR database 63C. The first processor 610 may receive information from the confirmed itinerary 718 confirming the identity of the passenger associated with the PNR number for picking up and transporting baggage associated with the PNR number from passenger location 605 to baggage location 634. The confirmed itinerary 718 ( FIG. 7 ) may be created, for example, by a computer system 628 (i.e., reservation system 62 of FIG. 1B ) associated with an airline or travel management system (TMS). In one or more embodiments, the confirmed itinerary may be for other modes of travel for which PNR numbers are generated by other reservation systems or TMSs described herein. Each reservation system may have a PNR database with reservation information. The PNR database 63C may include check-in information for the registered passenger's return travel segment with a designated return travel carrier. The data for the return leg can be accessed using the PNR number and instructions from the airline.

[0498] In one embodiment, the system 600 includes an imaging device in communication with a first processor 610. The imaging device and the first processor 610 may be integrated into a single device, such as a smartphone, mobile communication device, tablet, notebook, or other camera-enabled portable computing device. The imaging device may capture an image (hereinafter referred to as an “LI image 606”) of each baggage item (LI) 614 associated with the P-BTI 612 prior to departure from the passenger location 605.

[0499] In one embodiment, the imaging device may capture an image of the passenger's assigned identification device 620 (hereinafter "ID image 604"). The first processor 610 and the imaging device user may verify the passenger's identity to match the PNR number 630 and P-BTI 612. The PNR number 630 may be associated with at least one person. However, only one individual within the PNR number may need to be identified at the time of collection of at least one baggage item 614. In one or more embodiments, all passengers must be present, and all identities of adult passengers are verified.

[0500] The first processor 610 may communicate the PNR number 630, verification 602, ID image 604, LI image 606, geographic location (LOC) information 608, and P-BTI 612 (i.e., P-BTI 236 or 236′) in bracket 632 to the second processor 626. As a non-limiting example, a smartphone or other mobile computing device may include a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver that receives signals from a GPS to locate the first processor 610. The digitized information in bracket 632 may be used to eliminate the need for printed valet tags for tagging baggage items. The verification 602 may include, for example, verification of the identity of a registered passenger. The verification 602 may also include verification of other information, such as confirmation of the purchase of a ticket or other ticket for travel in a moving vehicle.

[0501] Verification 602 may include verifying the passenger's identity using an eligible state-issued driver's license or identification in a TSA-approved digital wallet on the mobile communication device. In one or more embodiments, the passenger may download a TSA-approved digital ID application. TSA.gov provides examples of mobile driver's license and digital identification requirements for APPLE WALLET, GOOGLE WALLET, and SAMSUNG WALLET. Other applications are from state DMVs, such as the California DMV Wallet Application. Yet other applications may be available from airlines, such as the AMERICAN AIRLINE Digital ID Application.

[0502] Verification may include confirmation of a reservation. Verification 602 may include, for example, verifying the identity of an unregistered passenger listed in a PNR database and associated with a PNR number. This may include verifying the person's identity and, in one or more embodiments, verifying the purchase of a ticket or other ticket for travel. The verification process may include performing facial recognition based on an image of the registered passenger and stored images of the registered passenger. The verification process may authenticate the person's identity using Department of Transportation (DMV) records or other authenticated facial recognition databases. In one or more embodiments, other biometric data, such as a fingerprint, retinal scan, etc., may be used.

[0503] Baggage location 634 may accommodate other baggage items 638 and 686. Baggage item 686 may be equipped with tracking device 680. Baggage item 638 may be equipped with tracking device 642. As a non-limiting example, when each baggage item slot is open for check-in, the tracking device may be activated by computing device 648 via signal 650 to locate the particular baggage item, and tracking device 642 or 680 may transmit an audible alarm or a voice or visual indicator. Baggage items may be checked in with DCS 63A (FIG. 1B) (i.e., a computer system) associated with the airline using internet communications or a public communications utility infrastructure.

[0504] Tracking devices 642 and 680 are examples of temporarily assigned tracking devices. These tracking devices may be programmed with, for example, a GMMT bag tag number and / or a PNR number. Any of the baggage items in the group may be programmed with a GMMT bag tag number or a PNR number.

[0505] 6B-6D show a flowchart of a method for checking in a passenger and / or generating a baggage manifest according to an embodiment.

[0506] With particular reference to FIG. 6B , the method 660 may include, at block 662, acquiring by an electronic acquisition device a representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code display associated with a Global Bag Tag on a substrate located on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger.

[0507] The method 660 may include, by at least one processor, accessing, at block 664, from a computer system associated with the multi-mode baggage handling service, a GTE-BSM including the registered passenger's PNR number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record.

[0508] The method 660 may include, at block 666, retrieving, by at least one processor, check-in information for the passenger's travel leg with the specified mobile carrier using information associated with the PNR number.

[0509] The method 660 may include, at block 668, checking in, by at least one processor, the first baggage item with the specified mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the travel segment. The check-in process may vary depending on the type of travel vehicle. For example, checking in for a travel segment via a cruise ship may differ from the process for checking in for a travel segment via an airline. An airline check-in process is described in conjunction with FIG. 10B. An exemplary process 668' for checking in with an airline for a return flight is described in conjunction with FIG. 6C. Checking in to a cruise ship may require presenting a passport, driver's license, Real ID, birth certificate, or other proof of citizenship required by the government of each country.

[0510] The method 660 may include, at block 670, automatically creating, by a processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number. The baggage manifest record may include data for check-in of the baggage item's leg of travel with a designated mobile carrier. The check-in data varies based on the mobile vehicle.

[0511] In one or more embodiments, the baggage manifest record may be merged or loaded into the VOT manifest. This may be part of the check-in process for a particular VOT. The VOT check-in process may verify that a ticket has been purchased. The VOT check-in process may verify the identity of the passenger.

[0512] With particular reference to FIG. 6C , process 668′ may include, at block 672, determining whether the check-in is a return flight check-in. If the determination at block 672 is “no,” process 668′ may end at block 676. If the determination at block 672 is “yes,” process 668′ may include, at block 674, electronically capturing, by an electronic capture device, a representation of an origin airline bag tag identifier (A-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from the origin airline carrier that is on the first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital A-BTI data record linked to the origin airline carrier. The A-BTI includes the IATA license plate, and the A-BTI data record represents the IATA license plate number. The capture device may scan a barcode on the IATA bag tag or another marker bearing the IATA license plate number and convert the barcode to a digital license plate number. Creating a baggage manifest record may include, at block 670, using information from the digital A-BTI data record and the PNR number.

[0513] Process 668' may include scanning the IATA bag tag to obtain a return flight, for example, from a PNR database associated with the air mobile carrier, and then checking in, by at least one processor, the first baggage item or the passenger and the first baggage item to the designated return mobile carrier based on the retrieved or stored return flight data, at block 678. The process may check in other baggage items in the same process.

[0514] The process 668' may include, at block 679, causing at least one processor to cause a printing device to print an IATA bag tag for the return flight on the designated return mobile carrier. Once the baggage item is checked in, the DCS may generate the IATA bag tag for the return flight. However, scanning one of the origin IATA bag tag or GMMT bag tag may be used to print the IATA bag tag for the return flight later using a graphical user interface.

[0515] The check-in process can be repeated for unregistered passengers as described in connection with Figures 10B-10C. Thus, the process of Figure 6C can be performed for unregistered passengers that include IATA bag tags from the departing flight. This process can be repeated for additional baggage items.

[0516] With particular reference to Figure 6D, block 664 may include various steps shown in Figure 6D. Method 660 or process of block 664' may include, in block 663A, acquiring from an electronic acquisition device a representation of a captured Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code display associated with a global bag tag on a substrate that is located on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger.

[0517] The method 660 or the process of block 664′ may include, in block 663B, electronically obtaining, by at least one processor, a representation of at least one Priority Multi-Mode (PMM) movement code display representing at least one PMM movement code on a substrate associated with a bag tag on the first baggage item to create a digital PMM data record linked to the registered passenger.

[0518] Method 660 or the process of block 664′ may include, in block 663C, receiving, by the processor, an electronic communication from the acquisition device, the communication including tracking information including the acquisition device, time, date, and geographic location data associated with the GMMT data record or PMM data record.

[0519] The method 660 or the process of block 664' may include, in block 665, accessing, by at least one processor, PMM movement information associated with the digital PMM data record in a database of a computer system associated with the multi-mode baggage handling service.

[0520] The method 660 or the process of block 664' may include, at block 665', recording, by at least one processor, the tracking information in a registered passenger profile or a registered passenger travel history database.

[0521] 7 illustrates an exemplary confirmed itinerary 718 for an airline flight, according to an embodiment. The confirmed itinerary 718 includes at least one of a PNR number 630, a passenger name, flight booking information, and a purchased ticket number.

[0522] FIG. 8 shows an Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) 800 for an airline. The airline generates and / or stores one or more B-type messages. One or more of the B-type messages may be generated by the BHS 63B (FIG. 1B) as baggage items are transported and tracked through the airport environment. The B-type messages may include one or more of a Baggage Transfer Message (BTM), a Baggage Source Message (BSM), a Baggage Processing Message (BPM), a Baggage Unloading Message (BUM), a Baggage Not Confirmed Message (BNS), a Baggage Control Message (BCM), a Baggage Manifest Message (BMM), and a Baggage Request (BRQ). The IATA bag tag number is part of the baggage message. The system 100 can store or access B-type messages generated on the travel day by the BHS 63B (FIG. 1B) for airlines for their registered passengers and associated unregistered passengers to also assist in the recovery of abnormal baggage items.

[0523] The A-BSM 800 can be communicated via teletex or other communication methods. It should be understood that each airline has its own unique A-BSM format. The A-BSM being accessed should include the passenger name record (PNR) number. The PNR number may contain alphanumeric characters. The A-BSM is an IATA compliant BSM created by an airline's computing system, for example, when a passenger checks in for their flight, and may indicate, for example, the intent to check in baggage items. The A-BSM is created by an airline's computer system, for example, when a passenger checks in for their flight at an airline counter.

[0524] An A-BSM is a BSM that is a B-type message. The "A" is used to distinguish global BSMs created by the system 100. A B-type message may include multiple data fields containing encoded characters. For example, the encoded characters may include one of the American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) codes, Baudot, and Padded Baudot. The codes and formats of baggage information messages or B-type messages are described, for example, in "Recommended Practice 1745 Baggage Information Messages" by IATA, in the Passenger Services Resolution Manual, June 2010, 30 th Edition, pgs.1110-1205.

[0525] A B-type message may include a field or line 802 containing a header. For example, the header may be labeled "BSM," representing the header at the beginning of the A-BSM. A field or line 804 may include a ".V / " at the beginning of the line followed by a set of alphanumeric characters. As a non-limiting example, the ".V / " at the beginning of the line may indicate version and supplemental data. For example, the supplemental data may include a transfer station in an airline environment. The .V / data field may indicate whether a B-type message, such as a BSM, is a terminal BSM. The .V / data field includes a number after the " / " that indicates the version number of the data dictionary. The next character may be a baggage source indicator, indicated by "L" for Local, "T" for Transfer, "X" for Terminating, or "R" for Remote. The baggage source indicator is followed by a three-digit airport code. In this example, the BSM is a transfer BSM with version number 1 and an airport code of JFK.

[0526] Field or row 806 may contain the prefix "F / " followed by a series of alphanumeric characters representing the flight number and date of departure. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". For example, the data "22MAY" may represent the arrival date. The code "IST" represents Istanbul Airport.

[0527] Field or row 808 may contain a series of alphanumeric characters, preceded by the prefix "I / ", representing the flight number and date of arrival. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". For example, the data "12MAY" may represent the departure date. The code "SLC" represents Salt Lake City Airport.

[0528] Field or line 812 may contain a prefix ".N / " followed by a set of numbers, some of which represent the A-BTI printed on the IATA bag tag. Field or line 810 may contain a prefix ".P / " followed by a set of letters, which represent the passenger's name. The name may be separated from the surname by the symbol " / ".

[0529] Field or line 818 may contain the prefix ".L / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters, which represents a passenger reservation record (PNR) number. A PNR number also refers to a locator. Field or line 820 may contain an end-of-message indicator, such as "ENDBSM."

[0530] Between rows 802 and 820, there may be other fields or rows, such as fields 814 and 816. Field or row 814 has the prefix ".S / " and is matching data. Field or row 816 has the prefix ".W / " associated with weight, piece, dimension, and type data of the baggage item. Thus, airline B-type messages are known in the art. B-type messages will not be further described. Some of the fields / rows are required and others are optional depending on the B-type message.

[0531] The exemplary A-BSM 800 is provided for illustrative purposes and is not meant to be limiting in any way. Each airline may make modifications to the airline BSM. While the B-type message has required fields, some fields may be modified at the airline's discretion.

[0532] FIG. 9A illustrates a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) 900 (i.e., GTE-BSM 141) according to an embodiment. FIG. 9B illustrates a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) link structure 950 according to an embodiment. The GTE-BSM link structure 950 will be described in conjunction with FIG. 9A. The GTE-BSM link module 173 may be configured to link information together as described in the GTE-BSM link structure 950 by addressing, indexing, and storing information that may be accessible by scanning a registered passenger's global bag tag during the journey and / or by scanning an IATA bag tag if the passenger traveled with an airline for at least one leg of the journey.

[0533] The GTE-BSM 900 may be permanent, lasting for the same registered passenger, with the same name and P-BTI, for a predetermined validity period, such as one month up to 10 years, one month up to 20 years, or until death. The information in the GTE-BSM 900 may be updated with new booking information associated with a new PNR number for each new trip. As a non-limiting example, the new booking information may include arriving and departing flight information, accommodation information, or other multi-modal travel information, including information about cruise ship voyages, bus reservations, or train reservations. The fields in the GTE-BSM 900 are not limited to airline information. Instead, the GTE-BSM in the GTE-BSM link structure 950 may include multiple vehicle travel information. The GTE-BSM may be used for the first travel leg, for example, with a priority for the travel leg performed by the airline. The GTE-BSM template (hereinafter referred to as the "BSM template") may vary by vehicle of travel (VOT). For example, if an airline is not used for any legs of the current journey from end to end, not all fields are required. The GTE-BSM may not typically require certain fields in the A-BSM; only fields with relevant information for baggage tracking and handling may be required and retained. Information regarding the BSM templates, locations, check-in times, departure times, gates, stations, etc. of other travel vehicles may be required.

[0534] A B-type message may include a field or line 902 containing a header. For example, the header may be labeled "GTEBSM," representing the header at the beginning of the GTE-BSM 900. A field or line 904 may include a ".V / " at the beginning of the line followed by a set of alphanumeric characters. As a non-limiting example, the ".V / " at the beginning of the line may indicate version and supplemental data. For example, the supplemental data may include a transfer station in an airline environment. The .V / data field may indicate whether a B-type message, such as a BSM, is a terminating BSM. The .V / data field includes a " / " followed by a number indicating the version number of the data dictionary. The next character may be a baggage source indicator, indicated by "L" for Local, "T" for Transfer, "X" for Terminating, or "R" for Remote. The baggage source indicator may be followed by a three-digit airport code. The GTE-BSM may use a baggage source indicator in a manner similar to IATA B-type messages. However, in one or more embodiments, if the traveler is traveling in another moving vehicle rather than by airplane, the three-digit airport code may be replaced with another encoding scheme to reflect the moving vehicle or transport vehicle. VOT codes may be created using both numbers and letters. In one or more embodiments, VOT codes may include more than two or three digits.

[0535] Field or row 906 may contain the prefix "F / " followed by a series of alphanumeric characters representing the flight number and date of the departing flight. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". Instead of a flight number, a train number, a voyage number or a bus number may be used.

[0536] Field or row 908 may contain a series of alphanumeric characters, preceded by the prefix "I / ", representing the flight number and date of the arrival flight. The alphanumeric characters may be separated by the symbol " / ". Instead of a flight number, a train number, a voyage number or a bus number may be used.

[0537] Field or row 912 may include a prefix "N / " followed by a set of numbers, some of which represent the A-BTI digital BTI data record of the registered passenger's baggage item. Field or row 910 may include a prefix ".P / " followed by a set of characters, which represent the passenger's first name. The first name may be separated from the last name by the symbol " / ".

[0538] Field or line 918 may include the prefix ".L / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters, which represents a passenger reservation record (PNR) number. A PNR number also refers to a locator. Field or line 920 may include an end-of-message indicator, such as "ENDGTEBSM."

[0539] Between rows 902 and 920, there may be other fields or rows, such as fields 914 and 916. Field or row 914 has the prefix ".S / " and is matching data. Field or row 916 has the prefix ".W / " associated with weight, piece, dimension, and type data of the baggage item. Thus, airline B-type messages are known in the art. B-type messages will not be further described.

[0540] The GTE-BSM 900 may include a field or line 922 with, for example, the prefix ".Z / " for the GMMT bag tag number. The GMMT bag tag number may be "000123456 / 111". The code "000" may be an IATA code assigned to an inactive airline. However, other codes may be used. The series "123456" may be, for example, a passenger bag number. The code "111" may represent a PMM code. The " / " may separate the two digits or may be omitted.

[0541] The GTE-BSM 900 may include the GMMT bag tag number in the ".Z / " field or another available field. The GTE-BSM 900 of the GTE-BSM link structure 950 may include a field in the BSM outside the airline infrastructure to add current location data 984 to the field from the tracking device 40 affixed to the baggage item. The tracking device 40 may receive primary ID (PID) data from the baggage handling device, as described in connection with FIG. 16A. The tracking device ID may be stored in the GTE-BSM 900 of the GTE-BSM link structure 950 with the location data.

[0542] The GTE-BSM 900 may include fields in the BSM outside the airline infrastructure for adding links or locator numbers to banking information, for example. The GTE-BSM 900 may include fields in the BSM outside the airline infrastructure for adding links or locator numbers to personal information, such as information from a driver's license 982, as shown in FIG. 9B.

[0543] The term "link" as used herein may include, for example, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) or Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS). The GTE-BSM 900 may communicate using a variety of protocols, such as, but not limited to, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), File Transfer Protocol (FTS), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), and User Datagram Protocol (UDP). Data may be indexed or addressed using hypertext links.

[0544] In one or more embodiments, if any of the moving vehicles are airlines, the GTE-BSM 900 is updated and merged with the A-BSM data when baggage items are checked in with the airline. Airlines may have priority over other moving vehicles. This is because, if necessary, the originating hardcopy bag tag with a printed A-BTI 961 or an RFID bag tag displaying an IATA bag tag number (i.e., A-BTI), shown as 960 in FIG. 9B of the GTE-BSM linking structure 950, can be used to obtain return flight information. The originating hardcopy (airline) bag tag with a printed A-BTI or RFID bag tag can be used as a secondary linking mechanism for unregistered passengers in a group linked to a registered passenger. The originating hardcopy bag tag, shown as 960 in FIG. 9B, may also display a PNR number. This PNR number can be used to access PNR data from a database connected to a computer system associated with the airline. The PNR data in the PNR database 63C (FIGS. 1B and 6A) may include reservation data.

[0545] The GTE-BSM link module 173 may include programming instructions that, when executed, may link one or more Transient Baggage Source Messages (T-BSMs) 146 to the GTE-BSM 900 in one or more embodiments, as shown in dashed box 990 in the GTE-BSM link structure 950. The T-BSM 146 may include similar fields to the GTE-BSM, except that field or line 902 includes the header "TBSM." Additionally, field or line 918 may include the leading ".L / " followed by a set of alphanumeric characters, which represents the passenger booking record (PNR) number. The PNR number may be the same as or different from the registered passenger's PNR number.

[0546] Field or line 910 may include a prefix ".P / " followed by a set of letters, which represent the name of the unregistered passenger. Field or line 912 may include a prefix "N / " followed by a set of numbers, some of which represent the digital BTI data record of the A-BTI of the registered unregistered passenger's baggage item. The A-BTI in T-BSM 146 may be printed on an origin hardcopy bag tag 965 affixed to the unregistered passenger's baggage item. In one or more embodiments, T-BSM 146 may input airline carrier information if at least one transportation mode is an airline.

[0547] The T-BSM 146 may be linked to the GTE-BSM 900 so that whenever an originating hard copy bag tag 965 is scanned, the scanning or capturing device may provide the baggage handler with information about the group, but limited to the appropriate unregistered passenger. For example, in the case of a cruise ship, the baggage handler may be presented with the cabin number of the particular unregistered passenger when scanning the originating hard copy bag tag 965. This may conserve valuable resources by recycling the airline's printed originating hard copy bag tags 965 for other moving vehicles.

[0548] If the flight is the same, the other information will be the same. However, if the flight is different, the information in the T-BSM 146 may be different.

[0549] The T-BSM may include the GMMT bag tag number in the ".Z / " field or another available field. This links the T-BSM to the registered passenger's GTE-BSM900. The field may use other prefixes allowed by IATA regulations. The field may use two or three digit prefix characters such as ".XXX / ", where X represents a letter.

[0550] The system 100 may include a vehicle on the move (VOT)-BSM generator 149 (FIG. 1A) that may contain programming instructions that, when executed, can generate a VOT-BSM. A VOT-BSM may be assigned to a registered passenger and linked to a GTE-BSM 900. Each VOT-BSM may be created for each additional trip leg and used to build a trip itinerary record, including arrival and departure times and dates and locations. A VOT-BSM may contain its own PNR number and may be linked to a single PNR number or Super PNR number.

[0551] The VOT-BSM 151 for the registered passenger may include the GMMT bag tag number in the ".Z / " field or another available field, which links the VOT-BSM 151 to the registered passenger's GTE-BSM 900 in the GTE-BSM link structure 950. In one or more embodiments, the PNR number may be a PMM code or travel member number that links with the travel segment reservation for the current travel leg. Field or line 910 may include the prefix ".P / " followed by a set of characters, which represent the registered passenger's name. If the VOT does not have a baggage bag tag number, field or line 912 may include the prefix "N / " followed by a set of numbers, some of which may represent the digital BTI data record of the A-BTI of the registered passenger's baggage item or may replicate the GMMT bag tag number. In one or more embodiments, the three-digit airport code may be replaced with another encoding scheme to reflect the moving or transport vehicle.

[0552] Dashed box 995 includes at least one VOT-BSM 151 linked to the GTE-BSM 900 in the GTE-BSM link structure 950. Because each unregistered passenger's T-BSM 146 may also travel on one or more VOTs with a registered passenger, one or more VOT-BSMs, indicated by dashed box 995′ in the GTE-BSM link structure 950, may be created via each unregistered passenger's VOT generator 149 and linked to their corresponding T-BSM 146. The PNR number may be the same or different from the registered passenger; however, the VOT location, date frame, and time frame should be the same so that bookings generally overlap.

[0553] In one or more embodiments, a registered passenger may have a longer stay reservation than at least one unregistered passenger.

[0554] Data from the T-BSM and VOT-BSM may be stored in the member's travel history and linked as part of the GTE-BSM link structure 950. Unregistered passengers may similarly have their travel history stored for use in data analysis for future travel, resource allocation, and advertising.

[0555] Because a registered passenger may check in more than one baggage item, an extra baggage BSM called "gte-BSM" 955 may be created when checking in a registered passenger's baggage. Here, the lowercase "gte" is used for distinction. The Gte-BSM 955 may contain similar fields to the GTE-BSM 900. In this case, field or line 912 may contain a leading "N / " followed by a set of numbers, some of which represent digital BTI data records of the A-BTIs of the registered passenger's additional baggage items. An origin hard copy (IATA) bag tag 962 may contain the A-BTIs of the additional baggage items and may be affixed to the baggage items, for example, as required by the airline. In some cases, the travel agency bag tag may be an RFID bag tag. An e-ink RFID display may display the A-BTI, which can be scanned by a scanner or received by an RFID reader. The ".Z / " field may contain the GMMT bag tag number. In one or more embodiments, an RFID reader captures the RF signal to obtain an electronic representation of the A-BTI.

[0556] An unregistered passenger may also check in more than one baggage item, in which case more than one T-BSM 146 may be generated for each unregistered passenger.

[0557] The description herein describes an IATA B-type message code format for the GTE-BSM. However, based on the description herein, other encoding formats and schemes can be used to create unique identifiers, structured message formats, and electronic linking media to link baggage items together across multiple moving vehicles and communicate using Transport Control Protocol (TCP) / Internet Protocol (IP) communication technologies and control protocols available now and in the future.

[0558] Each of the T-BSM, gte-BSM and / or VOT-BSM can be populated with the corresponding passenger's name, a link to the GMMT bag tag number and a PNR number or Super PNR number. Each of the T-BSM, gte-BSM and VOT-BSM can be updated with travel compartment information or reservation and location data as the corresponding baggage item enters its travel journey concurrently and / or independently of its owner.

[0559] 10A-10C illustrate a flowchart of a method 1000 for generating a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) for a registered passenger and / or a T-BSM for a current journey of one or more unregistered passengers, according to an embodiment. The current journey may include one or more vehicles on the move (VOT). The method 1000 will be described with reference to the GTE-BSM 900 of FIG. 9A and the GTE-BSM link structure 950 of FIG. 9B.

[0560] Method 1000 may include, by a processor, retrieving a GTE-BSM template in block 1002 and inputting information related to the P-BTI into the GTE-BSM 900 (FIG. 9A) in block 1004. The GTE-BSM may include the P-BTI and the name of the registered passenger. Block 1001 includes blocks 1002 and 1004, which may be executed when a global bag tag is created. With every journey of the registered passenger, other fields in the GTE-BSM 900 (FIG. 9A) may be updated. For simplicity, the BTM template may include a structure for storing or arranging information necessary to track and handle baggage items along an end-to-end journey using multiple travel or transportation modes.

[0561] The method 1000 may include, at block 1006, obtaining, by the processor, a PNR number for the current travel leg.

[0562] The method 1000 may include, at block 1008, accessing, by the processor, a computer system of a reservation system associated with the PNR number to obtain passenger list and travel itinerary information.

[0563] Method 1000 may include, at block 1010, determining by a processor whether there is a match between a passenger in a passenger list associated with the PNR number and the registered passenger. If the determination at block 1010 is "no," method 1000 ends at block 1012, meaning that a registered passenger may not be associated with the PNR number or the PNR may be an incorrect number. System 100 may store programming instructions for accessing pre-stored instructions for accessing PNR data from a computer system associated with the source of the PNR number (mobile carrier or PMM mobile information).

[0564] If the determination at block 1010 is "yes," method 1000 may include, at block 1014, populating, by the processor, the GTE-BSM template with the PNR number. Method 1000 may include, at block 1016, retrieving, by the processor, one or more VOTs from the PNR number of the baggage journey record.

[0565] Method 1000 may include, at block 1018, inputting, by the processor, inbound (arrival) and / or outbound (departure) information for the baggage item of the first VOT from the PNR number, if available, into the GTE-BSM. A travel journey may include multiple VOTs. The GTE-BSM may be input with the first VOT occurring in the time sequence of the travel vehicle. In one or more embodiments, the GTE-BSM may include information merged from non-airline booking information, as described below, but subsequently updated with merged data from the registered passenger's A-BSM.

[0566] The GTE-BSM can be expanded to include other fields or notes. Additionally, the GTE-BSM can be updated during the current travel leg. For example, during the movement of an airline's baggage and / or passengers, fields in the GTE-BSM can be merged with the A-BSM. Added fields can be used to add links to other vehicles on the move (VOTs) or VOT-BSMs. In one or more embodiments, the GTE-BSM 900 can have the original hard copy bag tag number from the IATA license plate in the ".N / " field 912 if one of the VOTs is an airline. The ".Z / " field or other designated field can have the GMMT bag tag number.

[0567] Method 1000 may include determining whether an airline reservation exists at block 1019. If the determination at block 1019 is "no," method 1000 may proceed to block 1046 of Figure 10C. If the determination at block 1019 is "yes," method 1000 may proceed to block 1020 of Figure 10B.

[0568] 10B, method 1000 may include, at block 1020, determining by a processor whether the passenger has checked in with an airline. For example, in one or more embodiments, if the registered passenger is traveling via an airline, the registered passenger is required to check in with the airline within a check-in window. In order for the baggage handling service to check in a baggage item into a check-in window, the airline may require the passenger to check in before checking in the baggage item. If the determination at block 1020 is "no," method 1000 may check in the passenger at block 1022. Method 1000 may include, at block 1025, sending a communication to the passenger including the passenger's boarding pass and / or a message indicating that the passenger has checked in for their flight. Block 1025 may proceed to block 1026.

[0569] The check-in process at blocks 1022 or 1026 is also described in connection with Figure 6A. For example, when a passenger and / or their baggage are checked in, such as for an outgoing flight with an airline, the passenger's identity may need to be confirmed, as described in Figure 6A, and / or for a confirmed ticket purchase. The passenger's identity may need to be verified regardless of whether the passenger and / or their baggage are checked in from home, lodging, a resort, or a cruise ship, or whether they are checked in from a flight (outbound or return).

[0570] When a passenger designates baggage items to be checked in, a computer system associated with the airline may create an A-BSM including the IATA bag tag number. This process may then transmit a boarding pass to the passenger by the computer system associated with the airline. Consequently, if the determination at block 1020 is "yes," method 1000 may include, at block 1024, accessing the A-BSM associated with the airline's computer system, for example, using the passenger name and one of the PNR number or airline reservation information for the checked-in passenger. The A-BSM may include arriving and departing flight information that may be extracted and added to the GTE-BSM for the current travel leg.

[0571] The method 1000 may include, at block 1026, checking in a baggage item for the registered passenger using information from the A-BSM.

[0572] The method 1000 may include, at block 1028, for example, if the passenger is a registered passenger, obtaining the A-BTI from an A-BSM associated with the airline's computer system and merging data from the A-BSM into the GTE-BSM 900.

[0573] Method 1000 may include, by the processor, accessing return flight information with the specified air carrier based on one of the PNR number or the airline reservation information and adding the return flight information to the baggage manifest record at block 1030. Method 1000 may include, by the processor, causing a printer to print an origin IATA bag tag for the checked-in baggage item at block 1032.

[0574] The method 1000 may include, at block 1034, counting, by the processor, the checked-in baggage items.

[0575] A registered passenger may wish to check in more than one baggage item. This requires checking in each baggage item. Thus, method 1000 may include, at block 1036, determining whether there is another baggage item. If the determination at block 1036 is "yes," method 1000 may include repeating blocks 1024, 1026, 1028, 1030, and 1032 for each extra baggage item (XL) to be checked by the registered passenger. In the extra baggage item scenario, at block 1028, method 1000 may include retrieving an A-BTI from an A-BSM associated with the airline's computer system and, for example, if the passenger is a registered passenger, merging the data from the A-BSM into the gte-BSM. Here, the new A-BTI is inserted into the ".N / " field 912, but within the gte-BSM. The gte-BSM is linked to the registered passenger's GTE-BSM. The link to the GTE-BSM is described in connection with block 507.

[0576] If the determination at block 1036 is "no," the method 1000 may include determining, at block 1038, whether there is another non-registered (NR) passenger in the group.

[0577] The registered passenger may be, but is not required to be, the lead passenger of the PNR number. For example, a parent may travel with a child. Data associated with the PNR number may list the child and the parent. The registered passenger may be the parent. Method 1000 enables tracking and handling of other baggage items using the registered passenger's P-BTI. System 100 may link an unregistered passenger with a PNR number different from the registered passenger's PNR number for a group cruise ship voyage that includes both unregistered and registered passengers, baggage pickup and delivery to a resort or lodging, etc.

[0578] Method 1000 can also check in unregistered passengers and their baggage items, or just their baggage items. This is accomplished by blocks 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026, 1028, 1030, and 1032, but for unregistered passengers. In this case, when A-BTI information is obtained, instead of merging the data into the GTE-BSM, the data is merged into the T-BSM, which is linked to the GTE-BSM of registered passengers.

[0579] If the determination at block 1038 is "yes," method 1000 may include creating and linking a T-BSM to the registered passenger's GTE-BSM at block 1040. Block 1040 may return to block 1020 and block 1042, and method 1000 may include tracking the unregistered passenger name, baggage item, and PNR number.

[0580] If block 1038 determines "no," the method 1000 may include proceeding to block 1046 of FIG. 10C.

[0581] Referring to Figure 10C, many travel journeys include two moving vehicles. The first moving vehicle can be a transportation mode such as an airplane, train, bus, ferry, cruise ship, or rental car. The second moving vehicle can be a lodging facility. In some cases, the transportation mode can also provide a moving vehicle such as a lodging facility. In other examples, a travel journey can include a single moving vehicle.

[0582] Method 1000 may include determining whether there is another VOT for the current trip leg at block 1046. If the determination at block 1046 is no, method 1000 may end at block 1048. If the determination at block 1046 is yes, method 1000 may proceed to block 1050, where a VOT-BSM may be created and linked to a GTE-BSM for a registered passenger or a T-BSM for an unregistered passenger. An example operation of block 1050 is described below.

[0583] In block 1050, the method 1000 may include obtaining a VOT-BSM template for the VOT in block 1052, entering information related to the VOT reservation into the VOT-BSM in block 1054, and linking the VOT-BSM with the GTE-BSM if the passenger is a registered passenger or with the T-BSM if the passenger is an unregistered passenger in block 1056.

[0584] Method 1000 may include determining whether there is another unregistered passenger at block 1058. If the determination at block 1058 is yes, method 1000 may return to the beginning of block 1050 and repeat blocks 1052, 1054, and 1056. If the determination at block 1058 is no, method 1000 may include determining whether there is another VOT at block 1060. If the determination at block 1060 is no, method 1000 may end at block 1062. If the determination at block 1060 is yes, method 1000 may repeat block 1050 for the next VOT, which includes blocks 1052, 1054, and 1056 as described above.

[0585] Method 1000 may include determining whether there is another unregistered passenger at block 1064. If the determination at block 1064 is yes, method 1000 may return to the beginning of block 1050 and repeat blocks 1052, 1054, and 1056. If the determination at block 1064 is no, method 1000 may include returning to block 1060.

[0586] Once all moving vehicles have been entered into the BSM template and linked to the GTE-BSM for the registered passengers and any unregistered passengers associated with them, the method 1000 may end at block 1062.

[0587] 11A-11C illustrate a Baggage Tracking Record (BTJR) according to an embodiment, which can create one or more records for a baggage manifest.

[0588] 11A illustrates a BTJR 1154A created for a passenger registered for a round-trip travel journey using multiple travel modes, according to an embodiment. The passenger can receive communications to a mobile communication device designated by the passenger or another computing device via messaging 178. Messages can be sent by text, email, or computer-generated communication. Messages can indicate status updates as described herein.

[0589] The system uses a scanner or other acquisition device to acquire the P-BTI (FIG. 2B) from the global bag tag 230. The scanner may be part of the system described in U.S. Patent No. 11,682,241, issued June 20, 2023, entitled "RETURN LEG REMOTE PASSENGER CHECK-IN," which is incorporated herein by reference. The scanner may be located at the dockside, in a moving vehicle, or carried by baggage delivery and handling personnel and configured to scan at least a barcode, such as the P-BTI, and communicate the P-BTI to the system 100. The system may, for example, update the BTJRs 1154A, 1154B, and 1154C with confirmation of the presence of a passenger's baggage item ready to be loaded onto any moving vehicle in the currently listed PNR. The system uses a scanner or other acquisition device to acquire a representation of the originating hardcopy bag tag identifier (OH-BTI) associated with a printed bag tag from the originating air carrier or a printed IATA bag tag license plate for use in a computing device.

[0590] With each scan, the scanner or capture device communicates the scanner and capture device's location and P-BTI to the system. Messages to the system may also include date and time data. For scanners or capture devices with GPS or positioning capabilities, GPS data or other location data may be sent to the system to identify the location of the package item. The GPS data from the scanner or capture device is compared to the expected map location data to correlate the expected location (EL) in the BTJR with the scan point (POS). If there is a correlation between the EL and POS, an indicator box, described below, may change color, symbol, or status.

[0591] In one or more embodiments, a passenger's mobile communication device or personal computing device may include a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to access a BTJR, such as BTJR 1154A, 1154B, or 1154C, to be notified of the current location and / or status of their baggage items.

[0592] In one or more embodiments, a baggage item may have a tracking device 40 attached to it. Such a tracking device may include a display device for displaying details of the BTJR. Passengers may have access to location data associated with the tracking device 40.

[0593] The BTJR 1154A may include one or more baggage handling fields 1102, 1104, 1106, 1108, 1110, 1112, 1114, 1116, 1118, 1120, 1122, 1124, 1126, 1128, and 1130. Each field includes an indicator box 1101 on a first side of the field. Each indicator box may be configured to indicate the status of a baggage item when a P-BTI on a global bag tag 230 is scanned. For example, scanning a P-BTI on a global bag tag for arrival or departure may cause the indicator box 1101 to display an icon or color representing the status. A first color or icon may indicate an expected baggage item that has not been scanned for arrival or departure. A second color or icon may indicate an expected baggage item that has been scanned for arrival or departure. A third color or icon may indicate an "in transit" status between expected locations. Other colors and icons may be used to indicate other status states.

[0594] The package handling field provides instructions to the display device on how the package item should be handled, such as pickup or delivery. In some cases, for example, the package item may need to be sent through customs.

[0595] Each baggage handling field may include various icons 1132 on a second side of the field opposite the first side. The icons 1132 may distinguish different locations and modes of travel or travel vehicles to which the baggage items should travel in their travel, whether parallel or independent to their owners. As a non-limiting example, the icons 1132 are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting in any way. The BTJR may be displayed on a display device associated with a computing device, scanner, acquisition device, or web server of the system 100.

[0596] To prevent clutter, some fields may be omitted. For example, possible additional fields related to cruise ship dockside baggage pickup and delivery in fields 1118 and 1120 shown in bracket 1140 are described in connection with Figure 11B. For example, fields 1118 and 1120 may include baggage handling fields 1152, 1153, 1156, 1158, and 1160, as described below in Figure 11B.

[0597] In an example, a registered passenger may be requesting pickup of a package from a specified address, such as, but not limited to, a home address, as shown in field 1102. Once baggage delivery and handling personnel have processed the package and / or passenger, the P-BTI may be scanned on the global bag tag 230, which may cause indicator box 1101 to change color or display an icon representing a status update.

[0598] As a non-limiting example, system 100 may check in a baggage item for a flight with ABC Airlines. Personnel processing the check-in of the baggage item may scan the P-BTI on the global bag tag 230, which may cause indicator box 1101 to change color or display an icon indicating a status.

[0599] In one or more embodiments, the system can automatically update the status of field 1104 when a baggage item is checked in, for example, by electronically receiving communication with an IATA bag tag license plate. The system can automatically update the status of field 1104 when a baggage item is checked in by printing an IATA bag tag for a flight.

[0600] Once the status is updated in the BTJR 1154A, a message may be sent to the passenger. In one or more embodiments, the passenger may also be checked in by the system.

[0601] When baggage delivery and handling personnel process the baggage and / or passenger for check-in with the airline, the P-BTI may be scanned on the global bag tag 230, which may cause an indicator box to change color or display an icon representing the status field 1104. Baggage and passengers may be identified, for example, up to 24 hours prior to flight departure.

[0602] When baggage delivery and handling personnel deliver the baggage item to the origin airport / airline for the flight, the P-BTI can be scanned on the global bag tag 230. This can cause an indicator box to change color or display an icon representing the status field 1106. The BTJR 1154A can receive updates regarding the flight. The indicator box in field 1108 can display a color or icon representing an itinerary change for a flight arrival. Similarly, the indicator box in field 1106 can display a color or icon representing an itinerary change for a flight departure or cancellation.

[0603] When baggage delivery and handling personnel collect the baggage from the flight's destination airport / airline, the P-BTI can be scanned on the Global Bag Tag 230. This can cause an indicator box to change color or display an icon representing the status in field 1110 to indicate the collection of the baggage from its location. The status can also indicate further transportation or "in transit" to, for example, a hotel.

[0604] When baggage delivery and handling personnel deliver the baggage item to the next moving vehicle, such as a hotel, the P-BTI can be scanned on the global bag tag 230, which can cause an indicator box to change color or display an icon representing the status field 1112. The reservation status can also be communicated in field 1114 with any changes, including passengers and time for checkout. As a non-limiting example, fields 1112 and 1114 can be used as a baggage manifest record for the accommodation.

[0605] When baggage delivery and handling personnel pick up the baggage from the hotel, the P-BTI can be scanned on the global bag tag 230. This can cause an indicator box to change color or display an icon representing the status in field 1116 to indicate the pickup of the baggage for that location. The status can also represent further transportation or "in transit" to, for example, a hotel.

[0606] The operation of fields 1118 and 1120 will become apparent from the following description of Figure 11B. As a non-limiting example, fields 1118 and 1120 may be used as a manifest record for a lodging facility or VOT.

[0607] When baggage delivery and handling personnel retrieve the baggage item from the cruise ship, the P-BTI may be scanned on the global bag tag 230, which may cause an indicator box to change color or display an icon representing the status of field 1122 to indicate the baggage item's removal from that location. In this example, the passenger may return home via a return flight on the designated mobile carrier.

[0608] In one or more embodiments, the system can automatically update the status in field 1124 when a baggage item is checked in, for example, by receiving an IATA bag tag license plate. The system can automatically update the status in field 1124 when a baggage item is checked in, for example, by printing an IATA bag tag for a flight.

[0609] Once the status is updated in BTJR1154A, a message may be sent to the passenger. In some examples, the passenger may also be checked in by the system. The message may include an IATA barcode with an IATA license plate and / or an IATA license plate representing receipt indicating that the baggage item has been checked in on an airline flight.

[0610] When baggage delivery and handling personnel process baggage items and / or passengers for airline check-in, the P-BTI may be scanned on the Global Bag Tag 230, which may cause an indicator box to change color or display an icon representing the status field 1124. Baggage items and passengers may be checked up to 24 hours prior to flight departure.

[0611] The operation of fields 1126 and 1128 is similar to that of fields 1106 and 1108 described above, and therefore will not be further described.

[0612] When baggage delivery and handling personnel arrive at a location to collect the baggage from the airport, the P-BTI can be scanned on the global bag tag, allowing field 1130 to indicate the status of the baggage being collected from the airport for delivery to a specified address, such as a home address.

[0613] Another field may be provided for each location to which the package is delivered or picked up from. In this case, when the package is delivered to the home address or other designated address, the P-BTI may be scanned on the global bag tag. This allows another field, such as field 1164 (FIG. 11B), to indicate the status of the package's delivery to the home address.

[0614] Figure 11B shows a BTJR 1154B created for a registered passenger with baggage items delivered for a cruise voyage, according to an embodiment. The registered passenger already has a P-BTI for use in any travel mode. The description herein also applies to the similar baggage handling fields 1118 and 1120 within bracket 1140 of Figure 11A.

[0615] In this case, BTJR 1154B may include field 1156 for boarding the cruise from port for LMN Cruise Line. Field 1156 may reference cabin number "1234." While the illustration in Figure 11B is for a travel leg on a cruise ship, BTJR 1154B may also be created when, for example, registered passengers' luggage is delivered to a resort, lodging facility, or other travel vehicle.

[0616] The messaging component 178 can identify when a cabin is ready for occupancy. Although the system 100 may not have delivered luggage items to the cabin, the system 100 can still provide registered passengers with updated messages regarding the reservation status, including any delays in cabin availability.

[0617] BTJR 1154B may include one or more baggage handling fields 1150, 1152, 1153, 1156, 1158, 1160, 1162, and 1164. Each field includes an indicator box 1151 on a first side of the field. Each indicator box may be configured to indicate the status of a baggage item when the P-BTI on the global bag tag 230 is scanned. For example, scanning the P-BTI on the global bag tag for arrival or departure may cause the indicator box 1151 to display an icon or color representing the status. A first color or icon may indicate an expected baggage item that has not been scanned for arrival or departure. A second color or icon may indicate an expected baggage item that has been scanned for arrival or departure. Field 1152 displays the code "MNO." This code is intended to represent a location code; however, an address may be used instead. Other code formats may be used and should not be limited to three characters.

[0618] Each baggage handling field may include various icons 1166 on a second side of the field opposite the first side. The icons 1166 may distinguish different locations and modes of travel or travel vehicles to which baggage items should travel in their travel, either parallel or independent to their owners.

[0619] In some examples, a registered passenger may request pickup of a baggage item from a specified address, such as, but not limited to, a home address, as shown in field 1150. Once baggage delivery and handling personnel process the baggage item and / or passenger, the P-BTI may be scanned on the global bag tag, which may cause indicator box 1151 to change color or display an icon representing the status. Once the baggage item arrives at a cruise line location (i.e., dockside), the P-BTI may be scanned on the global bag tag, which may cause indicator box 1151 to change color or display an icon representing the status.

[0620] When the baggage item arrives dockside, the global bag tag 230 can be scanned by a scanner or other acquisition device to obtain the P-BTI (FIG. 2B). The scanner can be dockside and can be configured to scan at least a barcode, such as the P-BTI, and communicate the P-BTI to the system 100. The system can update the BTJR 1154B with confirmation of the presence of the registered passenger's baggage item ready to board the cruise listed in the currently listed PNR.

[0621] In an example, the luggage item may be handled by delivery and handling personnel or other personnel to deliver the luggage item to the guest room, once the luggage item is delivered to the guest room, a scanner or capture device to scan the P-BTI and record its location in system 100. Field 1156 may thereby indicate the status of the delivery of the luggage item to the guest room.

[0622] In an example, the luggage item may be handled by delivery and handling personnel or other personnel to retrieve the luggage item from the cabin, and once the luggage item is retrieved from the cabin, a scanner or capture device may scan the P-BTI and record its location in system 100. A message may be communicated to the registered passenger via the designated communication device of the luggage item's location, such that field 1158 may indicate the status of the luggage item's retrieval from the cabin.

[0623] The security screening fields 1153, 1160 are described below. The security screening ...

Claims

1. registering, by at least one of the at least one processor, a vehicle license plate number (VLPN) of the vehicle associated with the registered traveler in a database storing traveler profiles; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, hotel reservation information associated with the registered traveler from a first computing system associated with a hotel reservation system, the hotel reservation information corresponding to a time slot; receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information representing a received VLAN from a second computer system associated with parking associated with the hotel reservation information within the time slot; and causing, by at least one of the at least one processor, payment to a payee for parking using a payment method of record in the traveler profile based on the registered Virtual LPN in the traveler profile matching the information representing the received Virtual LPN. A method comprising:

2. The vehicle is Rental car, or Vehicles owned by registered travelers The method of claim 1 , comprising one of:

3. the vehicle is the rental car, and the registering the Virtual Local Area Network (VRPN) includes: receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an image of a license plate having image data representing the registered VLPN digits; and storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the digits of the registered Virtual Local Area Network (VLPN); The method of claim 2 , comprising:

4. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, preferred multi-modal (PMM) travel information stored in the traveler profile, wherein the PMM travel information includes one or more travel management system numbers, travel membership numbers, or online travel booking engine numbers of the registered traveler.

5. The PMM movement information is Hotel membership number of the hotel company, and Rental car membership number of the rental car company The method of claim 4, comprising one or more of:

6. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the obtaining the hotel reservation information includes querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, the hotel reservation system associated with a hotel company for the hotel reservation information.

7. querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car reservation system associated with a rental car company for a rental car reservation; and and obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car virtual private network (VRPN). The method of claim 6 further comprising:

8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the registering the VLPN includes registering, by at least one of the at least one processor, the registered traveler for contactless pay parking.

9. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, in the traveler profile, a baggage item of the registered traveler and a global multi-modal travel bag tag number associated with the registered traveler.

10. matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, the B-type message against the registered traveler in a master traveler inventory, the master traveler inventory including registered traveler records created from the traveler profile; and determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the B-type message is a terminal baggage source message to a destination airport.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: wherein the received information represents the received VLAN associated with the hotel reservation information proximate to the destination airport.

11. at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: registering the vehicle license plate number (VLPN) of the vehicle associated with the registered traveler in a database storing traveler profiles; obtaining, from a first computing system associated with a hotel reservation system, hotel reservation information associated with the registered traveler, the hotel reservation information corresponding to a time slot; receiving information representing a received Virtual Private Network (VPN) from a second computer system associated with parking associated with the hotel reservation information within the time slot; and and causing payment to be made to a payee for parking using a payment method of record in the traveler profile based on the registered Virtual Local Park Number (VLPN) in the traveler profile that matches the information representing the received Virtual Local Park Number (VLPN). A system configured to:

12. The vehicle is Rental car, or Vehicles owned by registered travelers The system of claim 11 , comprising one of:

13. the vehicle is the rental car, 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to register the VLPN by receiving an image of a license plate having image data representing digits of the registered VLPN, and to store the digits of the registered VLPN.

14. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to access preferred multi-modal (PMM) travel information stored in the traveler profile, the PMM travel information including one or more travel management system numbers, travel membership numbers, or online travel booking engine numbers of the registered traveler.

15. The PMM movement information is Hotel membership number of the hotel company, and Rental car membership number of the rental car company 15. The system of claim 14, comprising one or more of:

16. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to obtain the hotel reservation information by querying the hotel reservation system associated with a hotel company for the hotel reservation information.

17. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to querying the rental car reservation system associated with the rental car company about the rental car reservation; and Obtaining a rental car VPN The system of claim 16 , further configured to:

18. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to register the VLPN by registering the registered traveler for contactless pay parking.

19. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to store, in the traveler profile, a baggage item of the registered traveler and a global multi-modal travel bag tag number associated with the registered traveler.

20. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to Matching the B-type message to the registered traveler in a master traveler inventory, the master traveler inventory including registered traveler records created from the traveler profile; and determining that the B-type message is a terminal baggage source message to a destination airport; 12. The system of claim 11, further configured to:

21. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: registering, by at least one of the at least one processor, a vehicle license plate number (VLPN) of the vehicle associated with the registered traveler in a database storing traveler profiles; obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, hotel reservation information associated with the registered traveler from a first computing system associated with a hotel reservation system, the hotel reservation information corresponding to a time slot; receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information representing a received VLAN from a second computer system associated with parking associated with the hotel reservation information within the time slot; and causing, by at least one of the at least one processor, payment to a payee for parking using a payment method of record in the traveler profile based on the registered Virtual LPN in the traveler profile matching the information representing the received Virtual LPN. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

22. The vehicle is Rental car, or Vehicles owned by registered travelers 22. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, comprising one of:

23. the vehicle is the rental car, and the registering the Virtual Local Area Network (VRPN) includes: receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an image of a license plate having image data representing the registered VLPN digits; and storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the digits of the registered Virtual Local Area Network (VLPN); 23. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 22, comprising:

24. 22. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the method further includes accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, preferred multi-modal (PMM) travel information stored in the traveler profile, the PMM travel information including one or more travel management system numbers, travel membership numbers, or online travel booking engine numbers of the registered traveler.

25. The PMM movement information is Hotel membership number of the hotel company, and Rental car membership number of the rental car company 25. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 24, comprising one or more of:

26. 22. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the obtaining the hotel reservation information includes querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, the hotel reservation system associated with a hotel company for the hotel reservation information.

27. The method comprises: querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car reservation system associated with a rental car company for a rental car reservation; and and obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a rental car virtual private network (VRPN).

27. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 26, further comprising:

28. 22. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the registering the VLPN includes registering, by at least one of the at least one processor, the registered traveler for contactless pay parking.

29. 22. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the method further includes storing, by at least one of the at least one processor, in the traveler profile, a baggage item of the registered traveler and a global multi-modal travel bag tag number associated with the registered traveler.

30. The method comprises: matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, the B-type message against the registered traveler in a master traveler inventory, the master traveler inventory including registered traveler records created from the traveler profile; and determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the B-type message is a terminal baggage source message to a destination airport.

22. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, further comprising: wherein the received information represents the received VLAN associated with the hotel reservation information proximate to the destination airport.

31. generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number for the registered passenger's baggage item, the GMMT bag tag number including a permanently assigned license plate that complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period; generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the GMMT bag tag number and the passenger name of the registered passenger; and generating, by a printing device, a GMMT code representation representing the GMMT bag tag number on a substrate configured to be affixed to the baggage item; A method comprising:

32. receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, current itinerary information representing at least one travel membership number of the registered passenger, a passenger reservation record (PNR) number of the registered passenger, or an itinerary confirmation (IC) number of the registered passenger; and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record based on the current journey information for the baggage items of the registered passengers, the baggage journey record including a baggage delivery location and a baggage pick-up location.

32. The method of claim 31 , further comprising:

33. determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a number of baggage items associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information; and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to each baggage item associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising:

34. accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database associated with the at least one travel member number, the PNR number, or the IC number to obtain other passenger names associated with the current itinerary information of the registered passenger; and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number with the other passenger names associated with the current journey information.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising:

35. 35. The method of claim 34, wherein constructing the baggage journey record based on the current journey information by at least one of the at least one processor includes constructing the baggage journey record based on the current journey information for baggage items in the names of the other passengers by at least one of the at least one processor.

36. receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, preferred multi-mode (PMM) travel information from the registered passenger's computing device; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database of stored passenger information associated with the baggage items that identifies the PMM movement information linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and wherein said generating, by at least one of said at least one processor, said GMMT bag tag number further comprises generating, by at least one of said at least one processor, at least one PMM movement code.

37. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein forming the GMMT code representation on the substrate by the printing device further comprises forming, by the printing device, at least one PMM transfer code representation representing the at least one PMM transfer code on the substrate subsequent to or adjacent to the GMMT code representation.

38. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the PMM travel information includes one or more travel management system numbers of the registered passenger or an online travel booking engine number of the registered passenger.

39. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the PMM travel information includes one or more travel membership numbers for the registered passengers.

40. The one or more travel membership numbers are: Airline frequent flyer number, Hotel membership number of the hotel company, Rental car membership number of the rental car company, and Cruise line membership number of the cruise line company 40. The method of claim 39, comprising one or more of:

41. receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, current itinerary information representing a travel member number, a PNR number, or an itinerary confirmation number; and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage movement journey record based on the PMM movement information and the current journey information.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising:

42. said constructing said baggage journey record based on said PMM movement information, querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the airline for a destination airport location for the baggage leg; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the hotel company for hotel reservation locations for the baggage journey; and querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the cruise line company for cruise booking locations for the baggage itinerary.

42. The method of claim 41, further comprising: inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location into the baggage itinerary record.

43. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the period is renewable.

44. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the predetermined validity period is the same as the life span of the registered passenger.

45. at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: generating a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number for a registered passenger's baggage item, the GMMT bag tag number including a permanently assigned license plate that complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period; generating a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the GMMT bag tag number and the passenger name of the registered passenger; and causing a printing device to form a GMMT code representation representing said GMMT bag tag number on a substrate to be affixed to said baggage item. A system configured to:

46. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to receiving current itinerary information representing at least one of the registered passenger's travel membership number, the registered passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number, or the registered passenger's itinerary confirmation (IC) number; and constructing a baggage journey record based on the current journey information for the baggage items of the registered passenger, the baggage journey record including a baggage delivery location and a baggage pickup location; 46. ​​The system of claim 45, further configured to:

47. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to determining a number of baggage items associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information; and Linking the GMMT bag tag number to each baggage item associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information.

47. The system of claim 46, further configured to:

48. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to accessing a database associated with the at least one travel member number, the PNR number, or the IC number to obtain other passenger names associated with the current itinerary information of the registered passenger; and Linking the GMMT bag tag number with the other passenger names associated with the current journey information.

47. The system of claim 46, further configured to:

49. 49. The system of claim 48, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to construct the baggage journey record based on the current journey information for baggage items in the other passenger names.

50. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to receiving preferred multi-mode (PMM) travel information from the registered passenger's computing device; generating a database of stored passenger information associated with the baggage items, the database identifying the PMM movement information linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and generating at least one PMM movement code simultaneously with said generating said GMMT bag tag number; 46. ​​The system of claim 45, further configured to:

51. 51. The system of claim 50, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to cause the printing device to form at least one PMM translation code representation representing the at least one PMM translation code on the substrate subsequent to or adjacent to the GMMT code representation.

52. 51. The system of claim 50, wherein the PMM travel information includes one or more travel management system numbers of the registered passenger or an online travel booking engine number of the registered passenger.

53. 51. The system of claim 50, wherein the PMM travel information includes one or more travel membership numbers for the registered passengers.

54. The one or more travel membership numbers are: Airline frequent flyer number, Hotel membership number of the hotel company, Rental car membership number of the rental car company, and Cruise line membership number of the cruise line company 54. The system of claim 53, comprising one or more of:

55. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to receiving current itinerary information representing at least one travel member number, PNR number, or itinerary confirmation number; and Constructing a baggage movement journey record based on the PMM movement information and the current journey information.

55. The system of claim 54, further configured to:

56. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to querying a reservation system associated with said airline for the location of the destination airport for the baggage leg; querying a reservation system associated with the hotel company for hotel reservation locations for the baggage journey; and Querying a reservation system associated with the cruise line regarding cruise booking locations for the baggage transfer leg.

56. The system of claim 55, further configured to construct the baggage itinerary record based on the PMM movement information by executing the at least one instruction, and wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to input one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location into the baggage itinerary record.

57. 46. ​​The system of claim 45, wherein the period is renewable.

58. 46. ​​The system of claim 45, wherein the predetermined validity period is the same as the life span of the registered passenger.

59. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number for the registered passenger's baggage item, the GMMT bag tag number including a permanently assigned license plate that complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period; generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the GMMT bag tag number and the passenger name of the registered passenger; and generating, by a printing device, a GMMT code representation representing the GMMT bag tag number on a substrate configured to be affixed to the baggage item; A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

60. The method comprises: receiving, by the processor, current itinerary information representing at least one of the registered passenger's travel membership number, the registered passenger's passenger reservation record (PNR) number, or the registered passenger's itinerary confirmation (IC) number; and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record based on the current journey information for the baggage items of the registered passengers, the baggage journey record including a baggage delivery location and a baggage pick-up location.

60. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 59, further comprising:

61. The method comprises: determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, a number of baggage items associated with the registered passenger for the current journey information; and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to a registered baggage item for each of the registered passengers for the current journey information.

61. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 60, further comprising:

62. The method comprises: accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database associated with the at least one travel member number, the PNR number, or the IC number to obtain other passenger names associated with the current itinerary information of the registered passenger; and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number with the other passenger names associated with the current journey information.

61. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 60, further comprising:

63. 63. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 62, wherein constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage journey record based on the current journey information includes constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the baggage journey record based on the current journey information for baggage items in the names of the other passengers.

64. The method comprises: receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, preferred multi-mode (PMM) travel information from the registered passenger's computing device; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a database of stored passenger information associated with the baggage items that identifies the PMM movement information linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and wherein generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number further comprises generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, at least one PMM movement code.

65. 65. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 64, wherein forming the GMMT code representation on the substrate by the printing device further comprises forming, by the printing device, at least one PMM transfer code representation representing the PMM transfer code on the substrate following or adjacent to the GMMT code representation.

66. 65. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 64, wherein the PMM travel information includes one or more travel management system numbers of the registered passenger or online travel booking engine numbers of the registered passenger.

67. 65. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 64, wherein the PMM travel information includes one or more travel membership numbers for the registered passengers.

68. The one or more travel membership numbers are: Airline frequent flyer number, Hotel membership number of the hotel company, Rental car membership number of the rental car company, and Cruise line membership number of the cruise line company 34. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 33, comprising one or more of:

69. The method comprises: receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, current itinerary information representing at least one travel member number, PNR number, or itinerary confirmation number; and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage movement journey record based on PMM movement information and the current journey information.

69. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 68, further comprising:

70. constructing a baggage journey record based on the PMM movement information, querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with an airline for a destination airport location for the baggage leg; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a hotel company for hotel reservation locations for the baggage journey; and querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with a cruise line company for cruise booking locations for the baggage itinerary.

66. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 65, wherein the method further comprises inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location into the baggage itinerary record.

71. 60. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 59, wherein the period of time is renewable.

72. 60. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 59, wherein the predetermined validity period is the same as the life span of the registered passenger.

73. electronically acquiring, by at least one electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code representation from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger, the GMMT code representation being an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant license plate; accessing, by a first processor, from a computer system associated with a multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the registered passenger's Passenger Reservation Record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; receiving, by the first processor, information identifying the registered passenger associated with the PNR number; and and linking, by at least one second processor in communication with the first processor, the GTE-BSM of the registered passenger to each different Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) associated with each different baggage item associated with the travel passenger name associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM. A method comprising:

74. checking in, by at least one of the at least one second processor, the first baggage item of the registered passenger within a check-in window for a travel segment on an air carrier; and generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, an origin IATA license plate for the first baggage item associated with the travel leg on the air carrier; 74. The method of claim 73, further comprising:

75. 75. The method of claim 74, wherein each A-BSM is an IATA-compliant Baggage Source Message (BSM).

76. accessing, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a database associated with the PNR number to obtain names of unregistered passengers associated with the registered passenger's current itinerary information; generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, separate Temporary Baggage Source Messages (T-BSMs) corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger based on the PNR number; and Linking the separate T-BSMs corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger to the GTE-BSM.

75. The method of claim 74, further comprising:

77. checking in, by at least one of the at least one second processor, each different baggage item of the unregistered passenger identified in the database associated with the PNR number, wherein each different baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger has a different A-BSM; and causing, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a printing device to print an IATA luggage bag tag having the created IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the unregistered passenger.

77. The method of claim 76, further comprising:

78. The receiving, by the first processor, the information confirming the identity of the registered passenger, further comprises: capturing an image of the registered passenger with an imaging device in communication with the first processor; and performing facial recognition based on the image of the registered passenger and stored images of the registered passenger; 74. The method of claim 73, comprising:

79. 79. The method of claim 78, further comprising capturing, by the imaging device in communication with the first processor, an image of each separate baggage item in the other traveling passenger name associated with the PNR number prior to departure from a baggage claim location.

80. Prior to said electronically obtaining, registering, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a passenger for the multi-modal baggage handling service; and generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a GTE-BSM including a passenger name of the registered passenger and the unique identifier, the unique identifier including a GMMT bag tag number representing the GMMT code designation.

74. The method of claim 73, further comprising: wherein the GMMT bag tag number comprises a permanently assigned license plate that conforms to the IATA license plate format for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period.

81. 74. The method of claim 73, further comprising automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number.

82. 81. The method of claim 80, wherein the period is renewable, and the predetermined validity period ranges from 1 month to 10 years or from 1 month to 20 years.

83. 81. The method of claim 80, wherein the predetermined validity period is the same as the life span of the registered passenger.

84. at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: obtaining, from at least one electronic capture device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code representation associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of a registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger, wherein the GMMT code representation is an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant license plate; accessing, from a computer system associated with a multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) containing the registered passenger's Passenger Reservation Record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; receiving information identifying the registered passenger associated with the PNR number; and Linking the GTE-BSM of the registered passenger to each different Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) for each different baggage item associated with the travel passenger name associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM. A system configured to:

85. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to checking in the first baggage item of the registered passenger within a check-in window for a segment of travel on an air carrier; and generating an origin IATA license plate for the first baggage item associated with the leg of travel on the air carrier; 85. The system of claim 84, further configured to:

86. 86. The system of claim 85, wherein each A-BSM is an IATA-compliant Baggage Source Message (BSM).

87. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to accessing a database associated with said PNR number for passenger names of unregistered passengers associated with current itinerary information of said registered passengers; generating separate Temporary Baggage Source Messages (T-BSMs) corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger based on the PNR number; and Linking the separate T-BSMs corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger to the GTE-BSM.

86. The system of claim 85, further configured to:

88. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to checking in each separate baggage item of the unregistered passenger identified in the database associated with the PNR number; and causing a printing device to print an IATA luggage bag tag having the generated IATA license plate for each checked-in luggage item of said unregistered passenger.

88. The system of claim 87, further configured to:

89. the information confirming the identity of the registered passenger includes an image of the registered passenger captured by an imaging device in communication with the at least one processor; 85. The system of claim 84, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to perform facial recognition based on the image of the registered passenger and stored images of the registered passenger.

90. 90. The system of claim 89, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to receive, from the imaging device in communication with the at least one processor, a captured image of each baggage item for the traveling passenger name associated with the PNR number prior to departure from a baggage claim location.

91. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction prior to obtaining the electronic representation of the GMMT, Enrolling the passenger in said multi-modal baggage handling service; and generating a GTE-BSM including the passenger name of the registered passenger and the unique identifier, the unique identifier including a GMMT bag tag number representing the GMMT code designation; 85. The system of claim 84, further configured to:

92. 88. The system of claim 87, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to automatically create a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number.

93. 92. The system of claim 91, wherein the period is renewable, and the predetermined validity period ranges from 1 month to 10 years or from 1 month to 20 years.

94. 92. The system of claim 91, wherein the predetermined validity period is the same as the life span of the registered passenger.

95. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: obtaining, from at least one electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code representation from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to the registered passenger, the GMMT code representation being an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant license plate; accessing, by a first processor, from a computer system associated with a multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the registered passenger's Passenger Reservation Record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; receiving, by the first processor, information identifying the registered passenger associated with the PNR number; and and linking, by at least one second processor in communication with the first processor, the GTE-BSM of the registered passenger to each different Airline Baggage Source Message (A-BSM) associated with each different baggage item associated with the travel passenger name associated with the PNR number in the GTE-BSM. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

96. The method comprises: checking in, by at least one of the at least one second processor, the first baggage item of the registered passenger within a check-in window for a travel segment on an air carrier; and generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, an origin IATA license plate for the first baggage item associated with the travel leg on the air carrier; 96. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 95, further comprising:

97. 97. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 96, wherein each A-BSM is an IATA-compliant Baggage Source Message (BSM).

98. The method comprises: accessing, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a database associated with the PNR number to obtain names of unregistered passengers associated with the registered passenger's current itinerary information; generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, separate Temporary Baggage Source Messages (T-BSMs) corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger based on the PNR number; and Linking the separate T-BSMs corresponding to each separate baggage item of each unregistered passenger to the GTE-BSM.

97. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 96, further comprising:

99. The method comprises: checking in, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a separate baggage item for each of the unregistered passengers identified in the database associated with the PNR number, wherein each baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger has a different A-BSM; and causing, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a printing device to print an IATA luggage bag tag having the created IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the unregistered passenger.

99. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 98, further comprising:

100. The receiving, by the first processor, the information confirming the identity of the registered passenger, further comprises: receiving a captured image of the registered passenger from an imaging device in communication with the first processor; and performing facial recognition based on the captured image of the registered passenger and the stored image of the registered passenger.

96. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 95, comprising:

101. 101. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 100, wherein the method further includes receiving, from the imaging device in communication with the first processor, captured images of each distinct baggage item for the traveling passenger name associated with the PNR number prior to departure from a baggage claim location.

102. The method further comprises, prior to the obtaining, registering, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a passenger for the multi-modal baggage handling service; and generating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a GTE-BSM including a passenger name of the registered passenger and the unique identifier, the unique identifier including a GMMT bag tag number representing the GMMT code designation.

96. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 95, further comprising: wherein the GMMT bag tag number comprises a permanently assigned license plate that conforms to the IATA license plate format for a period that expires after a predetermined validity period.

103. 96. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 95, wherein the method further includes automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one second processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number.

104. 103. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 102, wherein the period is renewable, and the predetermined validity period ranges from 1 month to 10 years or from 1 month to 20 years.

105. 103. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 102, wherein the predetermined validity period is the same as the life span of the registered passenger.

106. at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: linking a Global Multi-Modal Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to at least one travel membership number of the registered passenger to access reservation information associated with at least one travel vehicle associated with said at least one travel membership number; collecting reservation information for the current journey of at least one baggage item traveling independently or in parallel with the registered passenger in a registered passenger profile linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and building a Baggage Tracking Record (BTJR) for the pickup and delivery of the at least one baggage item based on the collected reservation information, the BTJR being linked to the GMMT bag tag number; A system configured to:

107. further comprising an electronic capture device configured to capture an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number on a substrate of a permanent bag tag on a first of the at least one luggage item; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to obtaining the electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number from the electronic capture device; retrieving information from at least one baggage handling field of the BTJR associated with the GMMT bag tag number; and displaying the retrieved information on a display device.

107. The system of claim 106, further configured to:

108. 108. The system of claim 107, wherein the permanent bag tag includes a GMMT code designation that includes the GMMT bag tag number, the GMMT bag tag number matching an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate.

109. 109. The system of claim 108, wherein the GMMT code representation includes at least one code representing the at least one travel membership number.

110. The at least one travel membership number is: Airline frequent flyer number, Hotel membership number of the hotel company, Rental car membership number of the rental car company, or Cruise line membership number of the cruise line company 107. The system of claim 106, comprising one or more of:

111. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to querying a reservation system associated with said airline for the location of the destination airport for the baggage leg; querying a reservation system associated with the hotel company regarding hotel reservation locations for the baggage journey; or Querying a reservation system associated with the cruise line regarding cruise booking locations for the baggage transfer leg. collecting said reservation information by performing one or more of the following: inputting into the BTJR one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location; 111. The system of claim 110, further configured to:

112. an electronic capture device configured to obtain an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number from a permanent bag tag on a first of the at least one baggage item, and to transmit the electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number, location data, and a timestamp of the electronic capture device to the registered passenger profile; 107. The system of claim 106, wherein the location data represents the current location of the first baggage item at the time the GMMT bag tag number is obtained.

113. 107. The system of claim 106, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to perform data analysis to push advertisements to mobile communication devices associated with the registered passengers.

114. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to linking the GMMT bag tag number to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number for a travel leg of the current travel journey; and Linking the GMMT bag tag number to a passenger reservation record (PNR) number in a reservation system for the travel segment associated with the current travel journey.

107. The system of claim 106, further configured to:

115. 107. The system of claim 106, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to assign a tracking device to a first luggage item of the at least one luggage item of the registered passenger.

116. linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the global multi-modal travel (GMMT) bag tag number to at least one travel membership number of the registered passenger to access reservation information associated with at least one travel vehicle associated with the at least one travel membership number; collecting, by at least one of the at least one processor, reservation information for a current journey of at least one baggage item traveling independently or in parallel with the registered passenger in a registered passenger profile linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record (BTJR) for the pickup and delivery of the at least one baggage item based on the collected reservation information, the BTJR being linked to the GMMT bag tag number. A method comprising:

117. obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor from an electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number on a permanent bag tag; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from at least one baggage handling field of the BTJR associated with the GMMT bag tag number; and causing at least one of the at least one processor to display the retrieved information on a display device.

117. The method of claim 116, further comprising:

118. 118. The method of claim 117, wherein the permanent bag tag includes a GMMT code designation that includes the GMMT bag tag number, and the GMMT bag tag number matches an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate.

119. 119. The method of claim 118, wherein the GMMT code representation includes at least one code representing the at least one travel membership number.

120. The at least one travel membership number is: Airline frequent flyer number, Hotel membership number of the hotel company, Rental car membership number of the rental car company, or Cruise line membership number of the cruise line company 117. The method of claim 116, comprising one or more of:

121. The collecting of the reservation information includes: querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the airline for a destination airport location for the baggage leg; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the hotel company for hotel reservation locations for the baggage journey; or querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the cruise line company for cruise booking locations for the baggage itinerary.

121. The method of claim 120, further comprising inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, into the BTJR one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location.

122. and acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number acquired by an electronic capture device, the GMMT bag tag number being associated with a permanent bag tag on a first baggage item of the at least one baggage item of the registered passenger, location data, and a timestamp of the electronic capture device relative to the registered passenger profile; 117. The method of claim 116, wherein the location data represents the current location of the first luggage item at the time the GMMT bag tag number is obtained.

123. 117. The method of claim 116, further comprising performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, data analysis to push advertisements to mobile communication devices associated with the registered passengers.

124. linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number for a travel leg of the current travel journey; and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to a passenger reservation record (PNR) number in a reservation system for the travel segment associated with the current travel leg.

117. The method of claim 116, further comprising:

125. 117. The method of claim 116, further comprising assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a first luggage item of the at least one luggage item of the registered passenger.

126. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the global multi-modal travel (GMMT) bag tag number to at least one travel membership number of the registered passenger to access reservation information associated with at least one travel vehicle associated with the at least one travel membership number; collecting, by at least one of the at least one processor, reservation information for a current journey of at least one baggage item traveling independently or in parallel with the registered passenger in a registered passenger profile linked to the GMMT bag tag number; and constructing, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage journey record (BTJR) for the pickup and delivery of the at least one baggage item based on the collected reservation information, the BTJR being linked to the GMMT bag tag number. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

127. The method comprises: obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor from an electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number on a permanent bag tag; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from at least one baggage handling field of the BTJR associated with the GMMT bag tag number; and causing at least one of the at least one processor to display the retrieved information on a display device.

127. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 126, further comprising:

128. 128. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 127, wherein the permanent bag tag includes a GMMT code designation that includes the GMMT bag tag number, and the GMMT bag tag number matches an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate.

129. 129. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 128, wherein the GMMT code representation includes at least one code representing the at least one travel membership number.

130. The at least one travel membership number is: Airline frequent flyer number, Hotel membership number of the hotel company, Rental car membership number of the rental car company, or Cruise line membership number of the cruise line company 127. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 126, comprising one or more of:

131. The collecting of the reservation information includes: querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the airline for a destination airport location for the baggage leg; querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the hotel company for hotel reservation locations for the baggage journey; or querying, by at least one of the at least one processor, a reservation system associated with the cruise line company for cruise booking locations for the baggage itinerary.

131. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 130, wherein the method further comprises inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, into the BTJR one or more of the destination airport location, the hotel reservation location, or the cruise reservation location.

132. The method further includes acquiring, by at least one of the at least one processor, an electronic representation of the GMMT bag tag number acquired by an electronic capture device, the GMMT bag tag number associated with a permanent bag tag on a first baggage item of the at least one baggage item of the registered passenger, location data, and a timestamp of the electronic capture device relative to the registered passenger profile; 127. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 126, wherein the location data represents a current location of the first baggage item at the time the GMMT bag tag number is obtained.

133. 127. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 126, wherein the method further includes performing, by at least one of the at least one processor, data analysis to push advertisements to mobile communication devices associated with the registered passengers.

134. The method comprises: linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number for a travel leg of the current travel journey; and linking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the GMMT bag tag number to a passenger reservation record (PNR) number in a reservation system for the travel segment associated with the current travel leg.

127. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 126, further comprising:

135. 127. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 126, wherein the method further includes assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a first luggage item of the at least one luggage item of the registered passenger.

136. acquiring, by an electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code display from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to said registered passenger; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a first computer system associated with a multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including a passenger reservation record (PNR) number for the registered passenger using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; using information associated with the PNR number to retrieve, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the registered passenger's travel segment with a designated mobile carrier; and and checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item into the designated mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the travel leg. A method comprising:

137. 137. The method of claim 136, further comprising verifying the identity of the registered passenger by at least one of the at least one processor prior to checking in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item.

138. generating an electronic communication by the electronic capture device and transmitting the electronic communication to the first computer system, the electronic communication including geographic location data associated with the electronic capture device, a time, a date, and tracking information including the GMMT data record; and recording, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking information in a movement history database of the registered passengers, the database being coupled to the first computer system.

137. The method of claim 136, further comprising:

139. 137. The method of claim 136, wherein the specified mobile carrier is an airline carrier and the retrieved check-in information includes a return leg flight time for a return flight.

140. 140. The method of claim 139, further comprising, prior to retrieving the check-in information, electronically capturing, by the electronic capture device, a representation of an origin airline bag tag identifier (A-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from an origin air carrier that is on the first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital A-BTI data record linked to the origin air carrier, wherein the A-BTI includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate, and the digital A-BTI data record represents the IATA license plate.

141. during the check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a second computer system associated with the air carrier, airline bag tag information for the return flight for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger; and causing a printer to print new bag tags for the return flight that match the IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger; 141. The method of claim 140, further comprising:

142. During the check-in, obtaining boarding pass information for the registered passenger's return flight; and and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the registered passenger.

142. The method of claim 141, further comprising:

143. creating, by at least one of said at least one processor, said digital A-BTI data record; and and automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital A-BTI data record and the PNR number, the baggage manifest record including the retrieved check-in information.

141. The method of claim 140, further comprising:

144. 137. The method of claim 136, further comprising automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number, the baggage manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item's leg of travel with the designated mobile carrier.

145. 137. The method of claim 136, wherein the designated mobile carrier comprises one of a bus, a train, a cruise ship, a ferry, or an airplane.

146. accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, data in a database associated with the PNR using the PNR number of the registered passenger; identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more unregistered passengers traveling on a return travel leg based on the accessed data; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the return travel leg of each of the one or more unregistered passengers using information associated with the data in the PNR; and and checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, each baggage item into a designated return mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

137. The method of claim 136, further comprising:

147. 147. The method of claim 146, wherein the designated return mobile carrier comprises an air mobile carrier, and the check-in information comprises return flight information including a return flight time for a return flight.

148. during the check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a second computer system associated with the air mobile carrier, for each of the one or more unregistered passengers, airline bag tag information for the return leg of each checked-in baggage item; and causing a printer to print a new bag tag for the return leg of travel for each checked-in baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers, the bag tag matching the IATA license plate.

148. The method of claim 147, further comprising:

149. During the check-in, obtaining boarding pass information for the return flight for each of the one or more unregistered passengers; and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

149. The method of claim 148, further comprising:

150. assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to the first baggage item of the registered passenger; and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device with the first baggage item of the registered passenger.

137. The method of claim 136, further comprising:

151. the assigning includes programming the GMMT code designation or the PNR number into the tracking device; 151. The method of claim 150, wherein the method further includes locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item using the tracking device.

152. assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to each baggage item of one or more unregistered passengers listed in a PNR database associated with the PNR number; and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device with each baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers.

152. The method of claim 151, further comprising:

153. 153. The method of claim 152, wherein the tracking device is temporarily assigned.

154. the tracking device is permanently assigned; 151. The method of claim 150, wherein the method further includes locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item using the tracking device.

155. at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: acquiring, from at least one electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code display from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to said registered passenger; accessing, from a first computer system associated with a multi-modal baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including the registered passenger's Passenger Reservation Record (PNR) number using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; using information associated with the PNR number to retrieve check-in information for the registered passenger's travel segment with a designated mobile carrier; and Checking in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item to the designated mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the travel leg. A system configured to:

156. 156. The system of claim 155, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to verify the identity of the registered passenger before checking in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item.

157. further comprising the at least one electronic acquisition device; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to generating an electronic communication by the at least one electronic capture device and transmitting the electronic communication to the first computer system, the electronic communication including geographic location data associated with the electronic capture device, a time, a date, and tracking information including the GMMT data record; and recording the tracking information in a movement history database of the registered passengers, the movement history database being coupled to the first computer system; 156. The system of claim 155, further configured to:

158. 156. The system of claim 155, wherein the specified mobile carrier is an airline carrier and the retrieved check-in information includes a return leg flight time for a return flight.

159. further comprising the at least one electronic acquisition device; 159. The system of claim 158, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to, before retrieving the check-in information, electronically capture, with the at least one electronic capture device, a representation of an origin airline bag tag identifier (A-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from an origin air carrier that is on the first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital A-BTI data record linked to the origin air carrier, wherein the A-BTI includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate, and the digital A-BTI data record represents the IATA license plate.

160. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to obtaining, during said check-in, from a second computer system associated with said air carrier, airline bag tag information for said return flight for each checked-in baggage item of said registered passenger; and causing a printer to print new bag tags for the return flight that match the IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger; 160. The system of claim 159, further configured to:

161. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to, during the check-in: obtaining boarding pass information for the registered passenger's return flight; and communicating the boarding pass information to the registered passenger's electronic communication device; 161. The system of claim 160, further configured to:

162. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to creating said digital A-BTI data record; and automatically creating a baggage manifest record from the digital A-BTI data record and the PNR number, the baggage manifest record including the retrieved check-in information.

162. The system of claim 161, further configured to:

163. 156. The system of claim 155, further comprising automatically creating, by at least one of said at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from said digital GMMT data record and said PNR number, said baggage manifest record including data for check-in of said baggage item for a leg of travel with said designated mobile carrier.

164. 156. The system of claim 155, wherein the designated mobile carrier comprises one of a bus, a train, a cruise ship, a ferry, or an airplane.

165. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to using the PNR number of the registered passenger to access data in a database associated with the PNR; identifying one or more unregistered passengers traveling on a return travel leg based on the accessed data; using information associated with the data in the PNR to retrieve check-in information for the return travel segment of each of the one or more unregistered passengers; and checking in each baggage item to a designated return travel carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

156. The system of claim 155, further configured to:

166. 166. The system of claim 165, wherein the designated return mobile carrier includes an air mobile carrier, and the check-in information includes return flight information including a return flight time for a return flight.

167. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to obtaining, during said check-in, from a second computer system associated with said air mobile carrier, for each of said one or more unregistered passengers, airline bag tag information for said return leg of each checked-in baggage item; and causing a printer to print a new bag tag for the return leg of travel for each checked-in baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers, the bag tag matching the IATA license plate.

167. The system of claim 166, further configured to:

168. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to, during the check-in: obtaining boarding pass information for the return flight for each of the one or more unregistered passengers; and communicating the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

168. The system of claim 167, further configured to:

169. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to assigning a tracking device to the first baggage item of the registered passenger; and Associating the tracking device with the first baggage item of the registered passenger.

156. The system of claim 155, further configured to:

170. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to assigning the tracking device to the first baggage item of the registered passenger by programming the GMMT code designation or the PNR number into the tracking device; and Locating the first package using the tracking device.

170. The system of claim 169, further configured to:

171. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to assigning a tracking device to each baggage item of one or more unregistered passengers listed in a PNR database associated with said PNR number; and associating said tracking device with each baggage item of said one or more unregistered passengers; 171. The system of claim 170, further configured to:

172. 172. The system of claim 171, wherein the tracking device is temporarily assigned.

173. the tracking device is permanently assigned; 170. The system of claim 169, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to locate the first baggage item using the tracking device.

174. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: acquiring, by an electronic acquisition device, an electronic representation of a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) code display from a substrate associated with a global bag tag on a first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital GMMT data record linked to said registered passenger; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a first computer system associated with a multi-mode baggage handling service, a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) including a passenger reservation record (PNR) number for the registered passenger using a unique identifier representing the digital GMMT data record; using information associated with the PNR number to retrieve, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the registered passenger's travel segment with a designated mobile carrier; and and checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item into the designated mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for the travel leg. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

175. 175. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 174, wherein the method further includes verifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, the identity of the registered passenger before checking in the first baggage item or the registered passenger and the first baggage item.

176. The method comprises: generating an electronic communication by the electronic capture device and transmitting the electronic communication to the first computer system, the electronic communication including geographic location data associated with the electronic capture device, a time, a date, and tracking information including the GMMT data record; and recording, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking information in a movement history database of the registered passengers, the database being coupled to the first computer system.

175. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 174, further comprising:

177. 175. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 174, wherein the specified mobile carrier is an airline carrier and the retrieved check-in information includes a return leg flight time for a return flight.

178. 178. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 177, wherein the method further includes, before retrieving the check-in information, electronically capturing, by the electronic capture device, a representation of an origin airline bag tag identifier (A-BTI) associated with or printed on a printed bag tag from an origin air carrier that is on the first baggage item of the registered passenger to create a digital A-BTI data record linked to the origin air carrier, wherein the A-BTI includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate, and the digital A-BTI data record represents the IATA license plate.

179. The method comprises: during the check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a second computer system associated with the air carrier, airline bag tag information for the return flight for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger; and causing a printer to print new bag tags for the return flight that match the IATA license plate for each checked-in baggage item of the registered passenger; 179. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 178, further comprising:

180. The method includes, during the check-in: obtaining boarding pass information for the registered passenger's return flight; and and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of the registered passenger.

180. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 179, further comprising:

181. The method comprises: creating, by at least one of said at least one processor, said digital A-BTI data record; and and automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital A-BTI data record and the PNR number, the baggage manifest record including the retrieved check-in information.

179. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 178, further comprising:

182. 175. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 174, wherein the method further includes automatically creating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a baggage manifest record from the digital GMMT data record and the PNR number, the baggage manifest record including data for check-in of the baggage item's travel leg with the designated mobile carrier.

183. 175. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 174, wherein the designated mobile carrier comprises one of a bus, a train, a cruise ship, a ferry, or an airplane.

184. The method comprises: accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, data in a database associated with the PNR using the PNR number of the registered passenger; identifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, one or more unregistered passengers traveling on a return travel leg based on the accessed data; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, check-in information for the return travel leg of each of the one or more unregistered passengers using information associated with the data in the PNR; and and checking, by at least one of the at least one processor, each baggage item into a designated return mobile carrier based on the retrieved check-in information for each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

175. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 174, further comprising:

185. 185. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 184, wherein the designated return mobile carrier includes an air mobile carrier, and the check-in information includes return flight information including a return flight time for a return flight.

186. The method comprises: during the check-in, obtaining, by at least one of the at least one processor, from a second computer system associated with the air mobile carrier, for each of the one or more unregistered passengers, airline bag tag information for the return leg of each checked-in baggage item; and causing a printer to print a new bag tag for the return leg of travel for each checked-in baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers, the bag tag matching the IATA license plate.

186. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 185, further comprising:

187. The method includes, during the check-in: obtaining boarding pass information for the return flight for each of the one or more unregistered passengers; and communicating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the boarding pass information to an electronic communication device of each of the one or more unregistered passengers.

187. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 186, further comprising:

188. The method comprises: assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to the first baggage item of the registered passenger; and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device with the first baggage item of the registered passenger.

175. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 174, further comprising:

189. the assigning includes programming the GMMT code designation or the PNR number into the tracking device; 189. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 188, wherein the method further includes locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item using the tracking device.

190. The method comprises: assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to each baggage item of one or more unregistered passengers listed in a PNR database associated with the PNR number; and associating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the tracking device with each baggage item of the one or more unregistered passengers.

190. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 189, further comprising:

191. 191. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 190, wherein the tracking device is temporarily assigned.

192. the tracking device is permanently assigned; 189. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 188, wherein the method further includes locating, by at least one of the at least one processor, the first baggage item using the tracking device.

193. matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, first movement information for the registered passenger's baggage item in the master movement manifest, the first movement information including the passenger name and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, with second movement information from the created B-type message, the second movement information including a reference indicator representing the non-routed baggage item; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, third movement information for the baggage item generated by a baggage handling system that correlates to a time frame before or after the created B-type message to locate the baggage item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a delivery instruction based on a baggage journey movement record associated with the master movement manifest for a current journey of the baggage item, the delivery instruction configured to reroute the baggage item to a location of a reservation for the registered passenger. A method comprising:

194. The created B-type message is Baggage Not Found Message (BNS), Baggage Processing Message (BPM), Baggage Transfer Message (BTM), and Baggage Source Message (BSM) The method of claim 193, which represents one of the following:

195. training, by at least one of the at least one processor, a model using the reference indicator; inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, data representing a routine route into the model; inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, data from one or more current B-type messages associated with the transportation of the cargo item into the model; and training, by at least one of the at least one processor, the model using data from one or more baggage handling systems that handle the baggage items.

195. The method of claim 194, further comprising: the model using a machine learning algorithm to detect that the package is a package sent on the non-routed route and that the difference between the current route and the routine route is greater than a threshold.

196. Before the matching, receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an originating BSM; and determining a routine route for said cargo item; 195. The method of claim 194, further comprising:

197. 197. The method of claim 196, further comprising determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents a deviation in time or distance between the routine route of the luggage item and the current route of the luggage item that is greater than a threshold value.

198. determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; notifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, the registered passenger that the baggage item is unidentified based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; and submitting, by at least one of the at least one processor, a claim to an air carrier based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified.

194. The method of claim 193, further comprising:

199. 194. The method of claim 193, further comprising: forming, by at least one of the at least one processor, the master travel manifest for the current travel date using the first travel information associated with registered passengers traveling on the current travel date.

200. determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents an atypical route for the baggage item; and accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, location data generated by a tracking device on the luggage item to track the current location of the luggage item.

194. The method of claim 193, further comprising: generating the delivery instructions by at least one of the at least one processor further comprising using the current location of the package item from the tracking device.

201. at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: Matching first movement information, including passenger names and International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate numbers, for registered passenger baggage items in the master movement manifest with second movement information from the generated B-type message, including reference indicators representing non-routed baggage items; retrieving third movement information for the baggage item generated by a baggage handling system that correlates to a time frame before or after the created B-type message to locate the baggage item; and generating a delivery instruction based on a baggage journey movement record associated with the master movement manifest for the current journey of the baggage item, the delivery instruction configured to reroute the baggage item to a location of the registered person's reservation; A system configured to:

202. The created B-type message is Baggage Not Found Message (BNS), Baggage Processing Message (BPM), Baggage Transfer Message (BTM), and Baggage Source Message (BSM) The system of claim 201, representing one of the following:

203. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to training a model using said reference indicators; inputting data representing a routine route into said model; inputting data from one or more current B-type messages associated with the transport of the cargo items into the model; and training the model using data from one or more baggage handling systems that handle the baggage items; 203. The system of claim 202, further configured to: wherein the model uses a machine learning algorithm to detect that the package is a package sent on the non-routed route and that the difference between the current route and the routine route is greater than a threshold.

204. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction before the matching, receiving an originating BSM; and determining a routine route for said cargo item; The system of claim 202, configured to:

205. The system of claim 204, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to determine whether the reference indicator represents a deviation in time or distance between the scheduled route of the luggage item and the current route of the luggage item that is greater than a threshold value.

206. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to determining whether the reference indicator represents information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; notifying the registered passenger that the baggage is unidentified based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; and Filing a claim with the air carrier based on said information indicating said baggage item is unidentified. The system of claim 201, configured to:

207. 202. The system of claim 201, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the at least one instruction to form the master travel manifest for the current travel date using the first travel information associated with registered passengers traveling on the current travel date.

208. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to determining whether the reference indicator represents an atypical route for the baggage item; accessing location data generated by a tracking device on the luggage item to track the current location of the luggage item; and generating the delivery instruction using the current location of the package from the tracking device; The system of claim 201, configured to:

209. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: matching, by at least one of the at least one processor, first movement information for the registered passenger's baggage item in the master movement manifest, the first movement information including the passenger name and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, with second movement information from the created B-type message, the second movement information including a reference indicator representing the non-routed baggage item; retrieving, by at least one of the at least one processor, third movement information for the baggage item generated by a baggage handling system that correlates to a time frame before or after the created B-type message to locate the baggage item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, a delivery instruction based on a baggage journey movement record associated with the master movement manifest for a current journey of the baggage item, the delivery instruction configured to reroute the baggage item to a location of a reservation for the registered passenger. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

210. The created B-type message is Baggage Not Found Message (BNS), Baggage Processing Message (BPM), Baggage Transfer Message (BTM), and Baggage Source Message (BSM) 210. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 209, representing one of:

211. The method comprises: training, by at least one of the at least one processor, a model using the reference indicator; inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, data representing a routine route into the model; inputting, by at least one of the at least one processor, data from one or more current B-type messages associated with the transportation of the cargo item into the model; and training, by at least one of the at least one processor, the model using data from one or more baggage handling systems that handle the baggage items.

211. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 210, further comprising: wherein the model uses a machine learning algorithm to detect that the package is a package sent on the non-routed route and that a difference between the current route and the routine route is greater than a threshold.

212. The method further comprises, before the matching, receiving, by at least one of the at least one processor, an originating BSM; and determining a routine route for said cargo item; 211. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 210, further comprising:

213. 213. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 212, wherein the method further includes determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents a deviation in time or distance between the regular route of the baggage item and the current route of the baggage item that is greater than a threshold value.

214. The method comprises: determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; notifying, by at least one of the at least one processor, the registered passenger that the baggage item is unidentified based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified; and submitting, by at least one of the at least one processor, a claim to an air carrier based on the information indicating that the baggage item is unidentified.

210. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 209, further comprising:

215. 210. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 209, wherein the method further includes forming, by at least one of the at least one processor, the master travel manifest for the current travel date using the first travel information associated with registered passengers traveling on the current travel date.

216. The method comprises: determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that the reference indicator represents an atypical route for the baggage item; and accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, location data generated by a tracking device on the luggage item to track the current location of the luggage item. and wherein generating the delivery instructions by at least one of the at least one processor further comprises using the current location of the package item from the tracking device.

217. assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to the passenger's baggage item; loading, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from a baggage source message (BSM) into the tracking device; and transmitting, by the tracking device, location information to a network interface of a computing system associated with the at least one processor, the location information including location coordinate data of the tracking device and the information from the BSM. A method comprising:

218. the assigning includes providing, by at least one of the at least one processor, at least one of a passenger name record (PNR) number, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, or a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to the tracking device; The method comprises: receiving, by the network interface of the computing system, the location information; and Locating the baggage item using the tracking device, by at least one of the at least one processor.

218. The method of claim 217, further comprising:

219. the passengers include passengers registered in a baggage handling system; 219. The method of claim 218, wherein the BSM includes a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) that links a GMMT bag tag number with one of the PNR number or the IATA license plate number.

220. 220. The method of claim 219, wherein the information from the BSM includes an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the registered passenger.

221. 220. The method of claim 219, wherein the information from the BSM includes an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger associated with the PNR number.

222. 218. The method of claim 217, wherein the BSM is an airline BSM.

223. 218. The method of claim 217, wherein the computing system is associated with one of an airline carrier, a baggage handling system, or a mobile vehicle.

224. 218. The method of claim 217, wherein the tracking device includes an inertial navigation system for environments where a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is unavailable.

225. 225. The method of claim 224, further comprising: communicating, by the tracking device, current location information to the network interface of the computing system using one of an ad-hoc communication protocol, a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, and a cellular communication protocol when one of an ad-hoc connection is in range, a Wi-Fi device is in range, a BLUETOOTH enabled device is in range, or a cellular tower is in range.

226. determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the BSM represents a regular route for the baggage item; determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the received B-type message represents an atypical route for the baggage item; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the location information generated by the tracking device to find a current location of the package item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, delivery instructions for rerouting the package using the current location.

218. The method of claim 217, further comprising:

227. a computing system including at least one processor and a network interface; at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; and a tracking device configured to transmit location information to the network interface. wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: assigning said tracking device to a passenger's baggage item; and Loading information from a baggage source message (BSM) into the tracking device. wherein the location information includes location coordinate data of the tracking device and the information from the BSM.

228. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to assigning the tracking device to the baggage item by providing the tracking device with at least one of a passenger name record (PNR) number, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, or a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number; receiving, by the network interface, the location information; and Locating the package using the tracking device.

228. The system of claim 227, further configured to:

229. the passengers include passengers registered in a baggage handling system; 229. The system of claim 228, wherein the BSM includes a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) linking a GMMT bag tag number with one of the PNR number or the IATA license plate number.

230. 230. The system of claim 229, wherein the information from the BSM includes an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the registered passenger.

231. 230. The system of claim 229, wherein the information from the BSM includes an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger associated with the PNR number.

232. 228. The system of claim 227, wherein the BSM is an airline BSM.

233. 228. The system of claim 227, wherein the computing system is associated with one of an airline carrier, a baggage handling system, or a mobile vehicle.

234. 228. The system of claim 227, wherein the tracking device includes an inertial navigation system for environments where a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is unavailable.

235. 235. The system of claim 234, wherein the tracking device is further configured to communicate current location information to the network interface of the computing system using one of an ad hoc communication protocol, a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, and a cellular communication protocol when one of an ad hoc connection is in range, a Wi-Fi device is in range, a BLUETOOTH enabled device is in range, or a cellular tower is in range.

236. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to determining that a reference indicator of the BSM represents a routine route for the baggage item; determining that a reference indicator of the received B-type message represents an atypical route for the cargo item; accessing the location information generated by the tracking device to find the current location of the package item; and generating delivery instructions to reroute the package using the current location; 228. The system of claim 227, further configured to:

237. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: assigning, by at least one of the at least one processor, a tracking device to a passenger's baggage item; loading, by at least one of the at least one processor, information from a baggage source message (BSM) into the tracking device; and transmitting, by the tracking device, location information to a network interface of a computing system associated with the at least one processor, the location information including location coordinate data of the tracking device and the information from the BSM. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

238. the assigning includes providing, by at least one of the at least one processor, at least one of a passenger name record (PNR) number, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, or a Global Multi-Mode Travel (GMMT) bag tag number to the tracking device; The method comprises: receiving, by the network interface of the computing system, the location information; and Locating the baggage item using the tracking device, by at least one of the at least one processor.

238. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 237, further comprising:

239. the passengers include passengers registered in a baggage handling system; 239. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 238, wherein the BSM includes a Global Tracking Extended Baggage Source Message (GTE-BSM) that links a GMMT bag tag number with one of the PNR number or the IATA license plate number.

240. 240. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 239, wherein the information from the BSM includes an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the registered passenger.

241. 240. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 239, wherein the information from the BSM includes an IATA license plate number of another baggage item associated with the unregistered passenger associated with the PNR number.

242. 238. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 237, wherein the BSM is an airline BSM.

243. 238. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 237, wherein the computing system is associated with one of an airline carrier, a baggage handling system, or a mobile vehicle.

244. 238. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 237, wherein the tracking device includes an inertial navigation system for environments where a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is unavailable.

245. 245. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 244, wherein the method further includes communicating, by the tracking device, current location information to the network interface of the computing system using one of an ad-hoc communication protocol, a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, and a cellular communication protocol when one of an ad-hoc connection is in range, a Wi-Fi device is in range, a BLUETOOTH enabled device is in range, or a cellular tower is in range.

246. The method comprises: determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the BSM represents a regular route for the baggage item; determining, by at least one of the at least one processor, that a reference indicator of the received B-type message represents an atypical route for the baggage item; accessing, by at least one of the at least one processor, the location information generated by the tracking device to find a current location of the package item; and generating, by at least one of the at least one processor, delivery instructions for rerouting the package using the current location.

238. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 237, further comprising:

247. storing, in at least one memory of the tracking device, a travel request number associated with the passenger; pairing, by said tracking device, with a service device associated with an airline carrier, airport, government agency, or entity; transmitting, by the tracking device, the mobility application number to the service device; and causing the service device to perform a function based on the received travel claim number, wherein the tracking device is affixed to the passenger's baggage item. A method comprising:

248. storing, by the tracking device, a digital certificate; and and requesting authentication by the service device using the digital certificate via the tracking advice.

248. The method of claim 247, further comprising:

249. 248. The method of claim 247, further comprising communicating location information by the tracking device to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item, independent of the passenger's mobile communication device, wherein the location information represents location information of the baggage item.

250. 248. The method of claim 247, wherein the travel request number includes a passenger reservation record (PNR) number, the service device includes a kiosk including a bag tag printer, and the function includes printing an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant bag tag.

251. the travel authorization number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device includes a baggage handling device of a baggage handling system of the airport, and the function includes communicating a pseudo identification number to a security screening machine; 248. The method of claim 247, wherein the tracking device is configured to receive the pseudo identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

252. 252. The method of claim 251, wherein the pseudo identification number includes a primary number associated with a stored security screening image captured by the security screening machine.

253. the travel request number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device includes a baggage handling device of a baggage handling system of the airport, and the function includes communicating a unique bag identification number to a security screening machine; 252. The method of claim 251, wherein the tracking device is configured to receive the unique bag identification number when the luggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

254. 254. The method of claim 253, wherein the unique bag identification number comprises a primary number associated with a stored security screening image taken by the security screening machine.

255. pairing the tracking device with a mobile communication device of the passenger; and communicating, by the mobile communication device, the travel request number, the travel request number including a passenger reservation record (PNR) number.

248. The method of claim 247, further comprising:

256. 256. The method of claim 255, further comprising receiving, by a tracking device, personally identifiable information from the passenger's mobile communication device.

257. 257. The method of claim 256, further comprising storing the personally identifiable information in the at least one memory.

258. The personally identifiable information is said passenger's date of birth; the name of said passenger; the passenger's social security number; the passenger's passport identification number, or Government-issued identification number 258. The method of claim 257, comprising at least one of:

259. The method of claim 247, wherein storing the movement request number in the at least one memory of the tracking device further includes storing baggage source message (BSM) information by the tracking device, the BSM information including multiple movement request numbers.

260. The plurality of transfer application numbers are Passenger Reservation Record (PNR) number, and International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number 260. The method of claim 259, comprising:

261. The BSM information includes a reference indicator; The method comprises: receiving, by the tracking device, at least one reference indicator from a second service device; comparing, by the tracking device, the at least one reference indicator with the reference indicator included in the BSM information; determining, by the tracking device, that an atypical reference indicator has been received; and and providing, by said tracking device, notification of the atypical reference indicator to a computing system associated with tracking said package item.

260. The method of claim 259, further comprising:

262. 248. The method of claim 247, further comprising communicating location information by the tracking device via notification to a computing system associated with tracking the luggage item, the location information representing location information of the luggage item.

263. the tracking device is configured to communicate using at least one of a Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol, a long-range radio frequency communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, and a Global System for Mobile Communications; 248. The method of claim 247, wherein the method further includes communicating current location information by the tracking device to a computing system associated with tracking the package item.

264. The travel application number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; 248. The method of claim 247, further comprising transmitting the movement request number by the tracking device to a radio frequency identification (RFID) receiver of a baggage handling system (BHS), wherein the BHS routes the baggage item based on baggage source message (BHS) information accessed using the movement request number.

265. the tracking device comprises a display screen, and the travel application number comprises an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; 248. The method of claim 247, wherein the method further includes causing the tracking device to display, on the display screen, an IATA license plate having the IATA license plate number.

266. 1. A tracking device comprising: at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory tangible memory communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, the at least one non-transitory tangible memory storing at least one instruction; A tracking device comprising: wherein the at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to: storing in said at least one memory a travel request number associated with the passenger; Pairing the tracking device with a service device associated with an airline carrier, airport, government agency, or entity; and transmitting the mobile application number to the service device; configured to: the mobility application number is configured to cause the service device to perform a function when the mobility application number is received by the service device; The tracking device is affixed to a luggage item of the passenger.

267. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to storing a digital certificate in the at least one memory; and requesting authentication by the service device using the digital certificate; 267. The system of claim 266, further configured to:

268. The system of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to communicate location information to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item independent of the passenger's mobile communication device, the location information representing location information of the baggage item.

269. 267. The system of claim 266, wherein the travel request number includes a passenger reservation record (PNR) number, the service device includes a kiosk including a bag tag printer, and the function includes printing an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant bag tag.

270. the travel authorization number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device includes a baggage handling device of a baggage handling system of the airport, and the function includes communicating a pseudo identification number to a security screening machine; The system of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to receive the pseudo identification number when the luggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

271. 271. The system of claim 270, wherein the pseudo identification number includes a primary number associated with a stored security screening image captured by the security screening machine.

272. the travel request number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device includes a baggage handling device of a baggage handling system of the airport, and the function includes communicating a unique bag identification number to a security screening machine; The system of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to receive the unique bag identification number when the luggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

273. 273. The system of claim 272, wherein the unique bag identification number comprises a primary number associated with a stored security screening image taken by the security screening machine.

274. The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to pairing the tracking device with the passenger's mobile communication device; and communicating the travel request number to the mobile communication device, the travel request number including a passenger reservation record (PNR) number; 267. The system of claim 266, further configured to:

275. 275. The system of claim 274, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to receive personally identifiable information from the mobile communication device of the passenger.

276. 276. The system of claim 275, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to store the personally identifiable information in the at least one memory.

277. The personally identifiable information is said passenger's date of birth; the name of said passenger; the passenger's social security number; the passenger's passport identification number, or Government-issued identification number The system of claim 276, comprising at least one of:

278. 267. The method of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to store baggage source message (BSM) information in the at least one memory, the BSM information including a plurality of movement application numbers.

279. The plurality of transfer application numbers are Passenger Reservation Record (PNR) number, and International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number 279. The method of claim 278, comprising:

280. The BSM information includes a reference indicator; The at least one processor executes the at least one instruction to receiving at least one reference indicator from a second service device; comparing said at least one reference indicator with said reference indicator included in said BSM information; determining that an atypical reference indicator is received; and providing notification of the atypical reference indicator to a computing system associated with tracking said package items; 280. The method of claim 279, further configured to:

281. The system of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to communicate location information by notification to a computing system associated with tracking the luggage item, the location information representing location information of the luggage item.

282. the tracking device is configured to communicate using at least one of a Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol, a long-range radio frequency communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, and a Global System for Mobile Communications; 267. The system of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to communicate current location information to a computing system associated with tracking the package item.

283. The travel application number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; The system of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to transmit the movement request number to a radio frequency identification (RFID) receiver of a baggage handling system (BHS), and the BHS routes the baggage item based on baggage source message (BHS) information accessed using the movement request number.

284. the tracking device further comprises a display screen, and the travel application number comprises an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; 267. The system of claim 266, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to execute the at least one instruction to cause the display screen to display an IATA license plate having the IATA license plate number.

285. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: storing, in at least one memory of the tracking device, a travel request number associated with the passenger; pairing, by said tracking device, with a service device associated with an airline carrier, airport, government agency, or entity; transmitting, by the tracking device, the mobility application number to the service device; and causing the service device to perform a function based on the received travel claim number, wherein the tracking device is affixed to the passenger's baggage item. A non-transitory computer-readable medium for performing a method comprising:

286. The method comprises: storing, by the tracking device, a digital certificate; and and requesting authentication by the service device using the digital certificate via the tracking advice.

286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, further comprising:

287. 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the method further includes communicating location information by the tracking device to a computing system associated with tracking the baggage item independent of the passenger's mobile communication device, the location information representing location information of the baggage item.

288. 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the travel request number includes a passenger reservation record (PNR) number, the service device includes a kiosk including a bag tag printer, and the function includes printing an International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant bag tag.

289. the travel authorization number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device includes a baggage handling device of a baggage handling system of the airport, and the function includes communicating a pseudo identification number to a security screening machine; 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the tracking device is configured to receive the pseudo identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

290. 290. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 289, wherein the pseudo-identification number includes a primary number associated with a stored security screening image captured by the security screening machine.

291. the travel request number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number, the service device includes a baggage handling device of a baggage handling system of the airport, and the function includes communicating a unique bag identification number to a security screening machine; 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the tracking device is configured to receive the unique bag identification number when the baggage item is in proximity to the service device and the security screening machine.

292. 300. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 291, wherein the unique bag identification number comprises a primary number associated with a stored security screening image taken by the security screening machine.

293. The method comprises: pairing the tracking device with a mobile communication device of the passenger; and communicating, by the mobile communication device, the travel request number, the travel request number including a passenger reservation record (PNR) number.

286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, further comprising:

294. 300. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 293, wherein the method further includes receiving, by a tracking device, personally identifiable information from the mobile communication device of the passenger.

295. 300. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 294, wherein the method further comprises storing the personally identifiable information in the at least one memory.

296. The personally identifiable information is said passenger's date of birth; the name of said passenger; the passenger's social security number; the passenger's passport identification number, or Government-issued identification number 300. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 295, comprising at least one of:

297. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein storing the movement request number in the at least one memory of the tracking device further includes storing, by the tracking device, baggage source message (BSM) information, the BSM information including a plurality of movement request numbers.

298. The plurality of transfer application numbers are Passenger Reservation Record (PNR) number, and International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number 300. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 297, comprising:

299. The BSM information includes a reference indicator; The method comprises: receiving, by the tracking device, at least one reference indicator from a second service device; comparing, by the tracking device, the at least one reference indicator with the reference indicator included in the BSM information; determining, by the tracking device, that an atypical reference indicator has been received; and and providing, by said tracking device, notification of the atypical reference indicator to a computing system associated with tracking said package item.

300. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 297, further comprising:

300. 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the method further includes communicating location information by the tracking device via notification to a computing system associated with tracking the luggage item, the location information representing location information of the luggage item.

301. the tracking device is configured to communicate using at least one of a Wireless Fidelity (WI-FI) communication protocol, a BLUETOOTH communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol, a long-range radio frequency communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, a short-range communication protocol, and a Global System for Mobile Communications; 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the method further includes communicating, by the tracking device, current location information to a computing system associated with tracking the package item.

302. The travel application number includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the method further includes transmitting the movement request number by the tracking device to a radio frequency identification (RFID) receiver of a baggage handling system (BHS), wherein the BHS routes the baggage item based on baggage source message (BHS) information accessed using the movement request number.

303. the tracking device comprises a display screen, and the travel application number comprises an International Air Transport Association (IATA) license plate number; 286. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 285, wherein the method further includes causing the tracking device to display, on the display screen, an IATA license plate having the IATA license plate number.

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