# Air Transport Document

*Last updated: 2026-06-16*

> Unlike a bill of lading in sea freight, the Air Waybill (AWB) is non-negotiable — it cannot be transferred or traded as a document of title.

Unlike a bill of lading in sea freight, the Air Waybill (AWB) is non-negotiable — it cannot be transferred or traded as a document of title. It evidences the contract of carriage between shipper and air carrier and confirms receipt of the goods for air transport, recording shipper, consignee, routing, weight, commodity description, and conditions of carriage. Airlines issue the Master AWB (MAWB); freight forwarders consolidating multiple shipments issue House AWBs (HAWB) to individual shippers. Customs authorities, handling agents, and consignees rely on the AWB as proof of the transport agreement and as the primary reference for customs clearance at the destination airport.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_waybill](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_waybill)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Air Transport Document |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 103 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-16 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_waybill |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/air-transport-document](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/air-transport-document)*

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