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
Air Waybill form
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.