Air Waybill (AWB) is a receipt for goods issued by the carrier (airline or its agent) in air transportation, and also serves as evidence of the transport contract and freight bill. Unlike the ocean bill of lading (B/L), it does not have the nature of a document of title, is non-negotiable, and the consignee takes delivery upon notification by the carrier. Usage scenarios: When goods are transported by air, the shipper must fill out an AWB, specifying the shipper, consignee, departure and arrival airports, cargo description, number of pieces, weight, freight charges, etc. Precautions: AWB is divided into Master Air Waybill (MAWB) and House Air Waybill (HAWB); the master air waybill is issued by the airline, while the house air waybill is issued by the freight forwarder; AWB is not a document for taking delivery, and the consignee takes delivery only by presenting identification; if a letter of credit requires a "bill of lading," it must be clarified whether AWB is acceptable, because AWB does not meet the requirements of a "document of title." Differences from ocean bill of lading: AWB is non-negotiable, non-transferable, and cannot be used for financing or mortgage; whereas an ocean bill of lading can be transferred by endorsement and is a document of title. Foreign trade practitioners should ensure that AWB information is accurate to avoid delivery delays caused by incorrect consignee information.
📝 Examples
1. We have shipped the goods by air, and a copy of the Air Waybill (AWB) is enclosed. Please use this document along with your identification to collect the goods at the destination airport. (Note: Inform the customer of the documents required for cargo collection and emphasize the non-document of title nature of the AWB.)
2. According to the requirements of the Letter of Credit, the beneficiary must submit the original Air Waybill (AWB). However, please note that the AWB is non-negotiable, and the issuing bank needs to confirm its acceptance of this document. (Note: Remind that in Letter of Credit transactions, the AWB differs from the ocean bill of lading, so as to avoid discrepancies.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
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