Basic information about Air Waybill (AWB)

An air waybill or air consignment note is a receipt issued by an international airline for goods and an evidence of the contract of carriage. It is not a document of title to the goods. The air waybill is non-negotiable.

Purpose and Function:

• An AWB accompanies goods shipped by an international air courier.
• It serves as a receipt of goods by the airline (carrier) and a contract of carriage between the shipper (sender) and the carrier.
• This legal agreement becomes enforceable when both the shipper (or their agent) and the carrier (or their agent) sign the document.

Key Information on an AWB:

• Standard Form: The AWB follows a standard format provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
• Contents:
  • 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.
  • Description of the goods.
  • Any special instructions (e.g., “perishable”).
  • Conditions of the contract, including liability limits and claims procedures.
  • Applicable charges.

Non-Negotiable Instrument:

• Unlike other bills of lading, an AWB is non-negotiable.
• It does not specify the exact flight or arrival time.
• AWBs are issued in non-negotiable form, providing less protection compared to bills of lading.

Comparison with Bill of Lading:

• Bill of Lading: Legal document for goods carried by sea, specifying type, quantity, and destination.
• AWB: Contract solely for transportation, not covering merchandise value.
• AWBs are essential for tracking and identification during air shipments.

Filling out

Your Details:

• Date: Mention the date when you’re filling out the AWB.
• Account Number: If applicable, include your account number with the carrier.
• Company Name: Clearly state your business name.
• Phone Number: Provide a contact number.
• Complete Address: Include your full address.
• VAT or Tax ID: If relevant, add your VAT or tax identification number.
• If there’s a different collection address, make sure to include it.

Receiver’s Details:

• Name: Specify the recipient’s name.
• Phone Number: Provide their contact number.
• Tax ID Number: If applicable, include the receiver’s tax identification number.
• Again, if there’s a different delivery address, ensure it’s included along with the contact details. Some countries accept post office addresses.

Shipment Details:

• Number of Packages: Indicate how many packages you’re shipping.
• Type of Package: Describe the type of packaging (e.g., boxes, crates).
• Weight and Dimensions: Provide accurate weight and dimensions for each package.
• For international shipments, include:
• Goods Description: Briefly describe the items being shipped.
• Value: Specify the value of the goods.
• HS Code: Assign the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) code for customs classification.
• If you’re shipping dangerous goods, declare this information.

Select a Shipping Service:

• Choose from available options such as next-day delivery, early-morning delivery, or Saturday service.

Billing Section:

• Clarify who is paying the carrier freight charges:
• If you’re handling payment, add your account number.
• If the receiver is paying, include their account number (with their permission).

Sign It:

• Either you or a company representative must sign the AWB.

Additional Consideration:

• Include a packing list inside the package with a detailed goods description.

Read more:

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