What is an Air Waybill (AWB)?

Air Waybill is an essential document for international shipping - arguably the most important piece of documentation associated with a shipment - often likened to a passport for cargo, the AWB is indispensable for both logistical and legal purposes.

Understanding an Air Waybill (AWB)

An air waybill (AWB) serves as a receipt of goods by an airline (the carrier), as well as a contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier. It’s a legal agreement that’s enforceable by law. The AWB becomes an enforceable contract when the shipper (or shipper's agent) and carrier (or carrier's agent) both sign the document.

The air waybill also contains the shipper's name and address, consignee's name and address, three-letter origin airport code, three-letter destination airport code, declared shipment value for customs, number of pieces, gross weight, a description of the goods, and any special instructions (e.g., "perishable").

An AWB also contains the conditions of the contract that describe the carrier's terms and conditions, such as its liability limits and claims procedures, a description of the goods, and applicable charges.

Key takeaways:

• An air waybill or AWB is a document that accompanies goods shipped by an international courier, which allows for tracking.

• It serves as a receipt of goods by an airline, as well as a contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier. It’s a legal agreement that’s enforceable by law.

• AWBs are non-negotiable instruments and must include the shipper's name and address, the consignee's name and address, the destination airport, and the value of contents, among other things.

Conclusion:

The AWB’s main purpose is that it provides proof of ownership of the goods or products shipped and also contains information about the sender and recipient. Shipping companies typically stick the waybill onto the outside of the package, allowing customs officials to conveniently access and check key information regarding the shipment. Therefore, by filling in the details of your waybill correctly, you will help to ensure a seamless shipping journey for your shipment.