GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026

Air waybill

Freight forwarders, shippers, and customs authorities handle the air waybill (AWB) as a matter of daily routine in air cargo.

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Last updated: 16 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/e-freight/awb/

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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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Definition & Explanation

Freight forwarders, shippers, and customs authorities handle the air waybill (AWB) as a matter of daily routine in air cargo. Issued by the airline or an authorized agent, it serves simultaneously as the contract of carriage, receipt of goods, and basis for the customs declaration. Unlike a negotiable bill of lading, the AWB is non-transferable: the consignee is fixed at issuance and cannot be changed by endorsement. It captures all freight-relevant details—weight, dimensions, contents, freight rate, and payment terms—while its unique number enables real-time tracking worldwide. A key distinction: the Master AWB (MAWB) governs the relationship between airline and forwarder, while the House AWB (HAWB) covers the forwarder's contract with the shipper.

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⚡ Current 2026

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Passar replaces E-dec and NCTS. Passar 1.0 (export) is live, Passar 2.0 (import) starts from Q2 2026. Roadmap, ePortal registration, deadlines and FAQ — all on one page.

Passar 1.0Passar 2.0 → Q2 2026Passar 3.0 → Q2 2027

Passar Hub →Declar Info

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Air waybill

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