With the basic understanding of Air Waybill, let us further elaborate on the related concepts around it, including the difference between House Air Waybill and Master Air Waybill.
What is Air Waybill (AWB)? Quick facts about AWB:
1. Who Issues AWB:
An air carrier (or via an IATA air cargo agent)
2. How to Get an AWB:
Go to IATA website, or click here to download a template (see the sample below) that includes an air waybill format.
3. Information Required:
- Names and addresses of the shipper and consignee
- Air cargo details:
- Total Packages, Weight, Dimensions, Commodity Description, Country of Manufacture, Value for Customs, and Total Declared Value for Carriage
- Insurance details
- Transport details and instructions
- A serial number
- Signature
4. Air Waybill Number:
The number composed of a three-digit airline code, a seven-digit air waybill code, and a one-digit check digit.
Master and House AWBs
There are two kinds of AWBs: House Air Waybill (HAWB) and Master Air Waybill (MAWB).
- HAWB is a receipt of goods issued by a freight forwarder to a shipper, viewed as a contract of carriage.
- MAWB is a transport document issued by an air carrier to the mentioned freight forwarder.
Therefore, one shipment involves House and Master AWBs each time when the air cargo is shipped from airport to airport.
Default Contract of Carriage: eAWB
Do you know the documentation processes of AWB have been officially digitized upon 2019?
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the eAWB structure is more eco-friendly without printing out lengthy paper and significantly cut down the human-made errors. You can also find detailed rules and sign-up tips from IATA’s website.
Why should I use eAWB?
With this electronic means, you can simplify the annoying paperwork and sign the contract on the softcopy just by using the e-signature feature–and this convenient service is free of charge!
Also, the eAWB enables you to track your international shipments more easily; all you need is a well-crafted air waybill app or a freight software allowing you to have an eAWB organized tracking system.
GoFreight offers a complete Air Import and Export Waybill management module. Schedule a DEMO today to learn more about how GoFreight can help you easily manage your shipping.
