As far as I understood by reading the united website, this charge is only for national (ie in the US flights)...Flights into and out of the US are not under this policy... (whew.. saves us about $100 each way)
Customers traveling to/from the United States and all international destinations are required to have their baggage checked 45 minutes prior to flight departure time.
* Maximum linear dimensions of all bags: 62 inches/158cm (length + width + height) each
* The number of checked bags permitted varies with your Mileage Plus status and/or class of service
Please review the information below for additional details and exceptions.
International destinations
(excluding travel to/from Brazil, El Salvador, The Philippines):
Customers
Economy Class 2 bags, maximum 50 pounds/23kg each
First or Business Class 2 bags, maximum 70 pounds/32kg each
Global Services, 1K, Premier Executive and Star Alliance Gold Members 3 bags, maximum 70 pounds/32kg each
Military customers on tour 2 duffel bags, sea bags or B-4 bags up to 70 pounds/32kg and 115 linear inches/292cm
Fees for baggage more than 70 pounds/32kg or exceeding the maximum linear dimensions vary by destination. Contact United or your
travel agent prior to your trip for details.
Baggage must be checked at the airport at least 45 minutes prior to flight departure time.
When are you flying with United?
They recently changed their policy regarding checked bags.
You are only allowed 1 free checked bag at 50 lbs. A second bag will now cost you $25.00.