Airway Bill (AWB): Definition, Utility, Example
The Airway Bill (AWB) is a document that accompanies the transport of goods by air. Whether you are shipping your belongings as part of moving abroad or for a long stay, the AWB is imperative for their transport, since it is air ticket for your luggage and personal effects. Find out more about what an AWB is, its essential role in air logistics and how to obtain one to ensure the smooth transportation of your belongings.
What Is an Airway Bill?
Airway Bill Definition
Commonly known as an AWB, an Airway Bill is a document that accompanies the international transport of goods by air. It establishes a contract between the shipper and the carrier (the airline). Drawn up in several copies, it is given to each of the parties involved: the shipper, the carrier and the consignee.
It is a model document standardized by the I.A.T.A. (International Air Transport Association).
Here is an example of airway bill
Information Filled on an Airway Bill
The AWB provides all the information needed to send and track goods, including their itinerary and the goods transported (number, volume, weight).
It contains the following information:
- name and address of the shipper
- name and address of consignee
- points of departure and destination
- name and address of first carrier
- type of goods
- where and when the document was issued
- AWB number
The AWB number is the shipment’s tracking number, enabling you to follow the shipment during transport. To do this, simply visit the airline’s website.
Here are a few examples:
To track the shipment, go to a search engine (Google, Bing, etc.), then enter the name of the carrier airline + cargo.
Example: For tracking via Air France, enter: AIR France CARGO + tracking
The AWB number will also be requested by the airline’s cargo agent to retrieve the shipment.
How to Obtain an Airway Bill (AWB)?
1. Choosing the Carrier
The first step in obtaining an Airway Bill is to choose an approved airline or freight agent. At My Move, we take care of this step and recommend the most suitable carrier according to your destination and the transport services you have chosen.
2. Gathering the Necessary Information
Once the carrier or agent has been selected, it is time to prepare all the information required to issue the AWB. This includes:
- The shipper and receiver identity (name and address)
- A description of the goods transported (quantity, weight, dimensions)
- The flight itinerary information
This information enables the AWB to be filled in correctly and to avoid errors that could lead to delays or complications later on.
3. Transmitting Additional Documents
In addition to the general information listed above, certain additional documents may be required for specific items (valuables, regulated products, etc.). These may include customs certificates or invoices, for example. It is important to check the regulatory requirements of the destination country to avoid any risk of customs blockage.
4. Issuing of an Airway Bill
Once all the information has been supplied and the necessary documents validated, the carrier issues the AWB. This document is usually printed out or sent electronically to the shipper. It serves as official proof of the transport agreement between the parties and enables the goods to be tracked throughout its journey. It is essential to check that all the information on the AWB is correct before validating and signing it.
Difference Between an AWB and Other Transport Documents
Connote of Tracking
For express and/or economy shipments, the AWB is replaced by a document known as a slip or tracking connote. It contains the same information as the airway bill and has the same value. The slip’s number is the shipment’s tracking number, enabling you to follow the progress of the shipment. To do this, simply visit the transport company’s website.
Here are a few examples:
To track the shipment, go to a search engine (Google, Bing, etc.), then enter the name of the shipping company + tracking.
Example: To track via Fedex, enter: FEDEX + tracking
Airway Bill and Bill of Lading
The Air Waybill (AWB) and the Bill of Lading (BL) are two key documents in the international transport of goods, but they differ in several respects. While the AWB is used for air freight, the Bill of Lading is used for sea freight. The AWB serves as a contract between the shipper and the carrier, without transferring ownership of the goods and acts primarily as a tracking document and proof of the transport agreement. The bill of lading, in addition to being a contract of transport also serves as a title deed, transferring possession of the goods to the buyer or a third party.
Why is the AWB Compulsory for the Transport of Your Belongings?
No goods can be transported without an airway bill. It is a crucial document, both legally and logistically.
Legally, it formalizes the agreement between shipper and carrier, defining the responsibilities of each party. It serves as proof in the event of a dispute and offers legal protection to both you and the carrier.
From a logistical point of view, it secures the entire transport process, limiting the risks of loss, delay or damage and guaranteeing better management of the flow of goods. It also serves as a guarantee in the event of damage during transport.
The Air Waybill (AWB) is much more than a simple administrative document, it is a central element in the process of transporting your baggage internationally. By understanding its role and the steps involved in obtaining it, you can ensure that your personal effects are transported safely and with peace of mind, no matter your destination.
My Move’s team is at your disposal to answer any question you may have about the AWB and to help you organize your trip. We look forward to hearing from you!