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In the world of international freight forwarding, there are a number of essential documents that facilitate the movement of goods, whether by air, sea or land.
One of these crucial documents is the Air Waybill, a critical piece in the air logistics puzzle that ensures goods arrive at their destination optimally and safely. In this blog, we will explore what exactly this document is and why it is a must for any international cargo operation.
What is the Air Waybill?
The Air Waybill -AWB- is an essential document that certifies the airfreight forwarding contract, being the most important in an operation of this type. In detail, this file establishes the conditions of transportation of the cargo from the moment the airline (carrier) assumes responsibility until delivery at the designated place indicated in the document. However, it does not grant ownership of the goods and does not allow the transfer of ownership or negotiate a change of ownership.
It is recognized internationally by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) - the organization that represents 83% of all air traffic and drafts AWBs - and plays a vital role in the tracking and traceability of shipments, as it is assigned a unique number that allows the parties involved to track the location and status of the cargo in real time.
Information contained in an Air Waybill
This transport document contains the following data regarding the shipment:
- The name and address of the exporting company.
- The name and address of the company receiving the goods.
- The name, identification and city of the air transport company that takes charge.
- The airport of departure and destination of the cargo.
- Flight information: number, date, time, etc.
- The information of the goods (value, description, number of packages and units, weights, etc.).
- The amount of the shipment and who must pay for it.
- The official AWB document number.
- The data of the IATA agent in charge of the transport.
The Air Waybill is composed of different colored documents that must be legible. In this line, it is mandatory to issue 6 copies to be distributed to all operators.
Functionality of an Air Waybill
The Air Waybill plays a multifaceted role in international trade, fulfilling several functions that are essential to ensure a smooth and efficient air transport process. For example, it acts as a detailed "guide" for airlines, providing information on the planned flight route and stopover points; as evidence of contract, establishing agreed terms between shipper and airline; provides accurate cargo details; provides real-time control; and finally, serves as proof of delivery, documenting the exact time the cargo arrives at its destination.
Issuance of an Air Waybill
Acting as a receipt given upon receipt of the goods, this document is issued by the carrier - the airline - or, in some cases, by the consolidator. Both parties must provide all necessary information, but the primary responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of the AWB's contents rests with the carrier.
When a forwarding company issues the Air Waybill, it is crucial that it holds IATA agent accreditation. In addition, its details, including the logo, must appear on the document. This ensures the validity and authenticity of the certificate issued by the forwarding company, thus complying with established standards and requirements..
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Sources:
https://logisber.com/blog/air-waybill
https://www.embalajesdemadera.net/air-waybill-que-es-y-para-que-sirve/