If your baggage is damaged, you should report upon arrival at the airport. Most airlines have a dedicated baggage desk within the baggage claims area. You may receive a Property Irregularity Report (also known as PIR.) You will also need to put in a written claim to the airline within seven days. Having a PIR is no guarantee that the airline will accept your claim. If the airline accept your claim, they may pay for your baggage to be repaired, or may provide replacement baggage. It might be better to claim on your travel insurance as airlines may not pay out the true cost of what a lost, delayed or damaged bag has cost you. There is often a time limit for submitting a claim depending on the policy.