GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026

Air Cargo Manifest

Before a cargo flight departs, the airline or carrier must submit an air cargo manifest – a legally binding inventory of every shipment on board.

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Last updated: 16 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cargo_manifest

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Definition & Explanation

Before a cargo flight departs, the airline or carrier must submit an air cargo manifest – a legally binding inventory of every shipment on board. The document records, for each consignment, the shipper and consignee, weight, commodity description, and any dangerous goods classification, and it serves as the basis for security screening, customs clearance, and liability claims. Customs authorities use it for advance cargo declaration checks; airport operators rely on it for handling and dispatch documentation. The manifest should not be confused with the air waybill (AWB): the AWB governs the contractual relationship between shipper and carrier for a single consignment, whereas the manifest consolidates all cargo aboard a given flight into one comprehensive document.

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Air Cargo Manifest

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Related Terms

Unified Cargo Manifest

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Import Freight Manifest Correction

Japan Cargo e-Manifest Systems

Electronic Cargo Manifest for Maritime Transport

Advance Manifest System (AMS)

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