Air Waybill (AWB)
What Is an Air Waybill (AWB)?
An air waybill (AWB) is a shipping document used in the air freight industry. It accompanies goods shipped by international air courier and serves as a receipt and contract document, facilitating the efficient tracking and management of air freight.
Key characteristics
- Non-negotiable: An AWB can’t be transferred to another party during transit; ownership is bound to the consignee.
Functions of an AWB
- Contractual role: As a legally binding contract between the shipper and the carrier, outlining the duties, roles, terms, and conditions.
Required fields
- Shipper and consignee details: Names, addresses, and contact information of both the shipper and the intended recipient of the goods.
Difference between an AWB and an invoice
An invoice is a financial document issued by the seller to the buyer, detailing the goods sold and the amount due. An AWB, on the other hand, is a transport document issued by the carrier and is intended for all parties involved. The AWB serves multiple purposes; as a contract of carriage, a receipt, and a document for customs clearance; while an invoice functions solely as a payment request.
Difference between an AWB and a bill of lading
- Mode of transport: An AWB is used specifically for air shipments, whereas a bill of lading (BoL) can be used for any transport.