An Air Waybill (AWB) is a legally binding, non-negotiable document issued by an air carrier or its agent that serves as a contract of carriage, a receipt for cargo, and a tracking instrument. It includes standardized fields detailing the shipper and consignee information, carrier details, departure and destination airports, and a description of the cargo—including pieces, weight, dimensions, handling requirements, and declared value for liability and customs purposes. Each AWB carries a unique 11-digit tracking number (three-digit airline prefix plus eight-digit serial) for real-time shipment visibility. The document also lists all applicable charges, including freight, fuel, security, and special services, along with payment terms, indicating whether charges are prepaid or collect.
