German Phrase
Zu schwere Koffer kosten extra.
Meaning
The sentence tells the listener that suitcases which are too heavy will have to be paid for in addition to the normal fare. It is a factual statement often found on price lists, tickets or spoken by staff at transport hubs.
When to use
Use this phrase at airports, train stations, bus terminals or hotels when you need to explain or ask about baggage fees. It works both in written signs and in spoken conversation with service staff.
✦Grammar Breakdown
ZuschwereKofferkostenextra
Zu (too)
Zu is used as an intensifier meaning ‘too’ and is placed directly before the adjective.
Strong adjective declension
When there is no article, the adjective takes the strong ending –e in the plural nominative (schwere Koffer).
Plural noun Koffer
Koffer is a masculine noun; in the plural it stays unchanged (Koffer) and takes the plural verb ending.
Verb kosten (to cost)
Kosten is a regular verb; with a plural subject it uses the 3rd‑person plural ending –en (kosten).
Adverb extra
Extra is an adverb borrowed from Latin/English meaning ‘in addition, extra’ and follows the verb.
🗨In Conversation
Muss ich für meinen Koffer extra bezahlen?
Do I have to pay extra for my suitcase?
Ja, zu schwere Koffer kosten extra.
Yes, overweight suitcases cost extra.
✕Common Mistakes
Zu schwerer Koffer kosten extra.
The adjective must agree with the plural noun; use ‘schwere’ not ‘schwerer’.
Zu schweres Koffer kosten extra.
‘Koffer’ is plural here, so the adjective takes the plural ending –e.
Zu schwere Koffer extra kosten.
‘Extra’ is an adverb and follows the verb, not precedes it.
↔Alternatives
Übergewichtige Koffer werden extra berechnet.
Overweight suitcases are charged extra.
Für zu schwere Koffer fällt ein Aufpreis an.
A surcharge applies to too‑heavy suitcases.
Zu schwere Gepäckstücke kosten mehr.
Too heavy pieces of luggage cost more.
Cultural Tip
In German‑speaking countries baggage fees are usually announced in a very matter‑of‑fact tone. The phrase uses a neutral register, making it suitable for both written signs and polite conversation. Remember that ‘extra’ is an adverb, not an adjective, so it stays unchanged regardless of gender or number.