How does the carseat not get damaged when checking at the gate?

We are flying United and they offer checking the carseat at the gate so we don't have to lug it through the airport. We are flying out of Houston, so it's a huge airport and not ideal to carry.

I plan for my toddler to sit in my lap. So we don't need it on the plane, but it's a Graco Turn2me. I'm worried about it getting damaged.

If you've experienced this situation, how does the process work? Do they handle them gently? Does it still go in the cargo hold at the front of the plane? Thanks!