What is an Air Waybill (AWB)?

An Air Waybill (AWB) is an essential document used in air freight to confirm the shipment of goods. It serves as a legal agreement outlining the rights and responsibilities of the sender, recipient, and carrier. AWB plays a key role in:

• Tracking detailed shipment information throughout its journey.
• Confirming receipt of goods by the sender and delivery to the recipient.
• Serving as a legally binding document when signed by the involved parties.

Types of Copies of an Air Waybill

An AWB comes with multiple copies for different purposes in international shipping:

• Green Copy: For the carrier (airline).
• Blue Copy: For the sender.
• Pink Copy: For the recipient.
• Yellow or Brown Copy: Cargo receipt.
• White Copies: Four or more copies used for customs and airport purposes.

These copies ensure the verification of shipment details and are crucial for regulatory requirements during transportation.

Structure of an AWB Number

Each AWB has a unique 11-digit number used for tracking shipments, divided into three parts:

1. First three digits: Carrier/airline prefix.
2. Next seven digits: Serial number of the AWB.
3. Last digit: Check digit (remainder when the seven-digit serial number is divided by 7).

For example: AWB number 999-5372907-1

• 999: Carrier prefix.
• 5372907: Serial number.
• 1: Check digit (remainder of 5372907 ÷ 7).

MAWB vs. HAWB

• MAWB (Master Air Waybill): Issued by the carrier, features the carrier’s logo, and complies with IATA regulations. It only includes the MAWB number and serves as the primary transport contract.
• HAWB (House Air Waybill): Issued by freight forwarding companies, may not carry the carrier’s logo, and may include both HAWB and MAWB numbers. HAWBs are sometimes not subject to IATA regulations and are used in cases where MAWB is not available.

Key Differences Between AWB and Other Bills of Lading

• AWB (Air Waybill): Used for air transport, non-transferable, serves as a transport contract only.
• BoL (Bill of Lading): Used for sea transport, transferable, and can be used with all Incoterms.

The Air Waybill (AWB) is an indispensable document in air freight, ensuring that goods are tracked and the rights of all parties are legally recognized. With multiple copies and a structured AWB number, it ensures a smooth and transparent transport process.

Air Freight Made Easy with KFLV!

Looking to learn more about the Air Freight Instruction Sheet or need expert support for your air cargo shipments? Don’t hesitate to reach out — the logistics team at King Freight Logistics Vietnam (KFLV) is always ready to assist!

Why Choose KFLV?

• Reliable Schedules: Minimizing delays to keep your cargo on time.
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• Professional Support: Dedicated, experienced consultants at your service.

Contact us now at +84 (0) 938 188 796 for a free consultation!