We've always checked in 4-5 crates worth of tools and materials without any hassle from the airlines. We even check in our robot transporter and tape the two handles to the base of the cart. For metal extrusion and long stuff like that we usually ship it off with the robot to each event. I wouldn't recommend attepting to bring anything robot-related onto carry on, although I believe last year on the flight to Pacific Northwest 254 brought their lexan hopper on board. That was entertaining
