# Air Waybill Number

*Last updated: 2026-06-16*

> Freight forwarders and airlines rely on the air waybill number as the eleven-digit numeric identifier that uniquely references every AWB worldwide.

Freight forwarders and airlines rely on the air waybill number as the eleven-digit numeric identifier that uniquely references every AWB worldwide. The first three digits represent the IATA carrier code of the issuing airline; the remaining eight digits form the sequential serial number. This identifier enables real-time shipment tracking via carrier portals and logistics platforms, and serves equally as the reference for customs declarations, invoicing, and damage claims. It should not be confused with the HAWB number (House Air Waybill), which a freight forwarder assigns to an individual consignment within a consolidated shipment.

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

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Air Waybill Number |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 93 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-16 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_waybill |

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