How to Get Your Rimowa Serial Number Validated: A Step-by-Step Guide

Knowing your Rimowa suitcase’s serial number is not just a random piece of information; it’s a crucial detail that can hold significant value. 

In today’s market, counterfeit Rimowa products are increasingly becoming sophisticated, making it difficult to spot real Rimowa luggage. Knowing how to get your Rimowa serial number validated is essential for ensuring the quality, warranty, and resale value of your investment. 

If you’re a frequent traveler, a Rimowa enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to protect their investment, understanding how to validate your suitcase’s serial number is essential.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of validating your Rimowa serial number, ensuring you understand its importance, how to locate it, and what to do once you’ve found it.

Understanding Rimowa serial numbers

Image Source: Rimowa 

Serial numbers are a vital aspect of any luxury product, and Rimowa is no exception. 

This serial number acts as a fingerprint for your suitcase, allowing it to be identified and tracked. These unique identifiers not only confirm the authenticity of your suitcase but also provide essential information about its production and other details like current Rimowa offerings. 

Where can I locate my serial case number?

Serial numbers are typically discreetly placed to maintain the sleek aesthetic of the real Rimowa luggage. On newer models, you can find the serial number engraved on the outside of the suitcase, usually on the frame near the hinge or on the side panel. 

For older or vintage models, the serial number may be stamped into the aluminum body or located near the inner lining. Always check these areas carefully, as the location varies slightly depending on the Rimowa model and year of production.

If you still have the original packaging or receipt, the serial number is often included on the purchase documentation. 

Do all Rimowa products come with a serial number?

Rimowa’s suitcases have a unique serial number. This applies to both the polycarbonate and aluminum suitcases—and the Classic and Original versions—as it is an essential feature that helps authenticate the product. 

Note, however, that older Rimowa suitcase models (pre-1990s) might not have a serial number or may use a different identification system.

However, not all Rimowa accessories—such as luggage tags or travel essentials—will have a serial number, as these items are not tracked the same way the Rimowa suitcases are. 

Therefore, if you’re purchasing a suitcase and cannot locate the serial number, it may be a sign to investigate further to ensure the authenticity of the product.

Step-by-Step guide to validating your Rimowa serial number 

Image Source: Rimowa

Rimowa offers multiple methods to validate your serial number, ensuring flexibility and convenience. Follow these detailed steps for each method: 

Method 1: Online validation through the Rimowa website

One of the most efficient ways to validate your Rimowa serial number is by using the company’s official website. Rimowa has developed a streamlined online system for customers to verify the authenticity of their luggage.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Visit Rimowa’s official website: Navigate to rimowa.com using your browser.

2. Create or log into your Rimowa account: If you don’t already have one, you must create a new account by providing an email and setting a password. If you have an account, simply log in.

3. Navigate to the ‘My Rimowa’ section: Once logged in, locate the ‘My Rimowa’ section from the dashboard or menu. This is where you will input your product details.

4. Enter your suitcase’s serial number: Look for the option to add or register your product. You will be prompted to enter your Rimowa suitcase’s serial number in the designated field. Be sure to type it in carefully to avoid any errors.

5. Complete the product registration form: In addition to the serial number, you may need to provide additional details such as the model, date of purchase, and retailer information.

6. Submit for validation: Once all the details are entered, submit the form. Rimowa’s system will check the serial number against its database and validate it.

7. Receive confirmation: If the serial number is valid, you will receive a confirmation email or a notification within your account dashboard. This confirmation serves as proof that your Rimowa suitcase is authentic.

Method 2: Using the NFC Tag for serial number validation

Rimowa has integrated NFC technology into some of its newer suitcase models, allowing customers to validate the serial number and register their product with just a tap of their smartphone. This method is fast, convenient, and eliminates the need for manual entry.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Ensure your phone supports NFC: Most modern smartphones (iOS and Android) come with NFC functionality built-in. Before proceeding, confirm that NFC is enabled on your device. On iPhone, NFC is automatically enabled, but on Android, you may need to go into your settings to activate it.

2. Locate the NFC tag on your Rimowa suitcase: The NFC chip is usually embedded within the logo plate on newer Rimowa models. It’s often located on the top or side of the suitcase, depending on the model.

3. Open the Rimowa App or use your phone’s NFC reader: If you haven’t already, download and open the Rimowa app from your app store. Alternatively, you can simply use your phone’s built-in NFC reader without the app (this works on many Android models).

4. Tap your phone to the Rimowa logo plate: Place your smartphone directly on the Rimowa logo plate where the NFC tag is embedded. The phone will automatically recognize the NFC chip and prompt you to open the Rimowa app or a webpage for product registration and validation.

5. Complete the product registration: Once your phone detects the NFC tag, you’ll be guided through the registration and validation process. Your suitcase’s serial number will be pulled directly from the NFC tag, eliminating the need for manual input. Confirm the product details, including the model and purchase information, and submit for validation.

6. Receive confirmation: Upon successful registration and validation, you will receive an on-screen confirmation within the app or webpage, verifying that your Rimowa suitcase is authentic.

Method 3: Contacting Rimowa Customer Support

1. Gather your information: Have your Rimowa serial number ready, as well as any relevant purchase information (e.g., date, receipt, or order confirmation).

2. Choose a contact method: Rimowa offers various contact options, including:

• Phone: Call Rimowa’s customer support hotline.
• Email: Send an email to their customer support address.
• Live chat: Use the live chat feature on their website, if available.

3. Provide your details: Clearly communicate your serial number and any other necessary information to the customer support representative.

4. Request validation: Ask the representative to validate your serial number and confirm the authenticity of your Rimowa suitcase.

Method 4: Validating at an official Rimowa store or authorized luggage shops

If you prefer to validate your Rimowa suitcase in person, you can visit an official Rimowa store or an authorized retailer. 

This method is particularly useful if you want a Rimowa expert to assist you or if you’ve purchased your suitcase from a third-party seller and want to verify its authenticity before committing to the purchase.

How do I authenticate my RIMOWA?

Image Source: Rimowa

While the steps outlined above are effective for confirming authenticity, additional visual cues should be looked for when examining a Rimowa suitcase to ensure its authenticity.

Consider the following: 

Inspect the quality of the materials

Rimowa is known for using high-quality materials like premium aluminum and durable polycarbonate in its suitcases. Counterfeit products often fall short in replicating this level of craftsmanship. 

Here are some material-specific things to check:

• Authentic Rimowa aluminum suitcases have a solid, premium feel with a subtle brushed texture. The material should not appear too shiny or thin. Fake versions may use cheaper metals that feel flimsy or overly glossy.
• Rimowa’s polycarbonate suitcases are lightweight but exceptionally durable. Their slightly flexible structure absorbs shocks without cracking. If the plastic feels brittle or cheap, it’s likely a counterfeit.

Examine the zippers and zipper pulls

One key detail to authenticating your Rimowa is the zipper system, particularly the zipper pulls. Rimowa uses high-quality, sturdy zippers that glide smoothly. 

Rimowa often uses distinctive plastic zipper pulls on its polycarbonate models, and this is one area where counterfeits fall short. The pulls should be embossed with the Rimowa logo in clean, sharp lettering. Fakes may have poorly printed or uneven logos, or the plastic may feel cheap and light.

On aluminum models, Rimowa frequently uses metal zipper pulls. These should feel weighty and durable. Counterfeits may use lightweight or poorly finished metal that lacks the signature Rimowa craftsmanship.

Inspect the handles and wheels

Genuine Rimowa suitcases have telescopic handles that extend and retract seamlessly. They should feel sturdy and well-built, with no rattling or loose movement. Counterfeit products may have wobbly or stiff handles, and the material might feel cheaper.

Rimowa suitcases are equipped with multi-wheel systems designed for easy maneuverability. The wheels should spin smoothly and silently. 

Pay attention to the branding on the wheels—on some models, the Rimowa logo is embossed. Counterfeit wheels may feel stiff or squeak when rolling, and the logo may be missing or poorly replicated.

Inspect the interior

The interior lining of a genuine Rimowa suitcase is typically made of high-quality fabric, such as nylon or polyester. It should be well-stitched and have a consistent appearance. 

The pieces also feature an interior made-in label with details like the Rimowa logo and the longitude and latitude of where the Rimowa carry-on was made. 

Counterfeits have the entire suitcase lined in cheap linings, and the stitching may be loose or uneven. The Rimowa logo or branding should be clearly visible on the interior lining. Counterfeit branding may be blurry, misspelled, or have incorrect fonts.

Overall quality and craftsmanship

Genuine Rimowa suitcases are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Examine the overall quality of the stitching, zipper, and lock closures, Rimowa luggage materials, and entire packaging. 

Look for any inconsistencies or imperfections that may indicate a counterfeit product. Additionally, original Rimowa suitcases are often heavier than counterfeit ones due to the use of higher-quality materials and construction techniques.

Takeaway: Validate your Rimowa to ensure authenticity

Validating your Rimowa serial number is a crucial step in ensuring the authenticity and integrity of your suitcase. Following the step-by-step guide provided in this article will help you confidently verify the genuineness of your Rimowa product.

To further authenticate your suitcase, pay attention to visual cues, such as zipper pulls, hardware, and interior lining. 

You can protect your investment and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with owning a genuine Rimowa product by taking these precautions. 

Discover the best Rimowa for you with our in-depth Rimowa reviews, ensuring you purchase the products that meet your needs. 

FAQs

Below, we’ve also answered some regular questions regarding Rimowa suitcases. 

Do I need to register my Rimowa luggage?

Registering your Rimowa luggage isn’t required, but it’s highly recommended. Registration offers benefits like warranty extensions, easier access to customer support, and product updates. 

It also helps verify authenticity and can assist in recovering your luggage if it’s lost or stolen.

How can I set up a Rimowa code?

To set up a Rimowa suitcase code, start by opening the suitcase and locating the combination lock. The factory default code is usually set to “000.” 

Once you have the lock open, press and hold the small reset button, which is typically located inside the lock mechanism. While holding the reset button, turn the dials to set your desired three-digit combination. 

After choosing your new code, release the reset button to lock in the combination. Your new code is now successfully set, and you can use it to secure your suitcase.