Air Waybill (AWB)
Term Summary
An Air Waybill (AWB) is an official document issued by an airline, serving as a contract and receipt for the transportation of goods by air. This article outlines the key information included on an AWB, its functions in international shipping, and its role in facilitating customs clearance and cargo tracking.
An Air Waybill (AWB) is a non-negotiable, legally binding document issued by an air carrier or its authorized agent, serving as a contract of carriage between the shipper and the airline for the transportation of goods by air. The AWB contains essential shipment details, such as the consignor and consignee information, flight routing, description and value of the goods, weight and dimensions, and any special handling instructions.
Key Functions:
- Acts as a receipt of goods accepted by the carrier for air transport
- Functions as a contract of carriage, outlining the terms and conditions between the shipper and the carrier
- Serves as a freight bill and provides details needed for invoicing
- Facilitates customs declaration and clearance at both origin and destination
- Provides tracking information and acts as evidence for shipment claims or disputes
An Air Waybill is a critical document in international air cargo logistics, documenting the contract, receipt, and instructions for the movement of goods by air, and ensuring compliance with airline, customs, and regulatory requirements.
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