Abstract: A baggage tracing system includes a plurality of bag inventory stations, each equipped with a menu-driven workstation for entering documentary information related to the bag. Bag content data is also entered, as well as video images illustrating the bag and its contents. Each workstation is also menu-driven for entering claim requests. Bag records and claim records input via the workstation are transferred to a centralized data base for storage, and for retrieval on request to carry out matching functions for matching claim requests with bag records. The baggage tracing system of the invention can operate autonomously, or transmit and receive bag and claim records with respect to other remotely located systems or equipment.