GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Air Waybill
The air waybill (AWB) is a non-negotiable transport document issued by the airline or its authorized agent upon acceptance of cargo, evidencing the contract of carriage between shipper and air carrier.
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Source: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/e/eawb/
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The air waybill (AWB) is a non-negotiable transport document issued by the airline or its authorized agent upon acceptance of cargo, evidencing the contract of carriage between shipper and air carrier. It records shipper and consignee details, commodity description, weight, freight charges, customs data, and applicable fees. The AWB also functions as a receipt confirming cargo acceptance and as a delivery order at destination. Unlike the ocean bill of lading, it is not a document of title: ownership cannot be transferred by endorsement or physical presentation. The electronic air waybill (e-AWB) has largely replaced the paper version in international air cargo operations.
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