I do not lock the suitcases until it's time to place them on the belt where you say goodbye to them just in case they don't make it!LOL
This way if you are checked, they can easily open and then close. Then you politely ask to put the ties on before you put them on the conveyor belt. If you are not checked then put them on before you put them on the conveyor belt!
When we came back from MCO to YYZ, I personally took it to the X-ray Machine and asked for them to place the ties on. One was checked so she placed the notice in the luggage and then put the tie on. The other wasn't and she put the tie on right away.
Don't use the locks because they will definately cut it off if they want to look inside.
Also, remember to bring nail clippers without the file so that you can cut the ties off when you get to the resort ( or find a maintenance guy
if you forget).
Happy Trails!
Have a magical trip!
Scratch