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Cargo can be moved from one place to another using various modes of transport. When transported using air as the mode of transport, goods are known as airfreight or air transport. The airline that transports the goods issues a document indicating receipt of the goods on the flight. It shows a brief description of the goods and other details. This document issued by the airlines is called an air waybill or AWB. The AWB has a unique number assigned to it, which is called AWB Number. This number helps to track the goods and is a guide to check when the goods were despatched, despatch airport, flight number, destination airport and current status. Each airline has a unique numbering methodology used while issuing the AWB number. It is important to understand the role that this number plays and how it can be used to ensure that your cargo arrives at its intended destination on time and in good condition. Let us learn more about it.
The Airwaybill document accompanies the goods that have been transported by air. The unique number or code denoted on the Airwaybill (AWB) is called the AWB number. The number distinguishes one AWB from another. Each airline issues an airway bill starting with a unique code that indicates the flight on which the goods are being transported.
The airway bill documents the relationship between the shipper, airlines, and the consignee. Here are some of its importance and usage.
Importance and uses of AWB number:
The AWB contains important information about the goods being transported and this information is critical for customs officials to determine whether the goods can be allowed into the country and to assess the appropriate taxes and duties to be charged. It also acts as a customs declaration document.
The AWB will give information about various factors involved in the airfreight of the cargo. The AWB number also contains information about the port of despatch, the cargo’s declared value and packaged cargo’s dimensions. Marketplaces and couriers can also issue AWB. Examples of these are FedEx, eBay, TNT, etc.
It is worth noting that IATA manages the AWB number. It stands for International Air Transport Association. This is a global organisation and is responsible for the generation and distribution of AWB numbers. Some requirements for generating AWB numbers are the airline’s name, logo, headquarters address and unique waybill number. AWB number is also known as air consignment notes.
An airway bill is always used to accompany goods transported by air. This can be through cargo mode or courier mode of airfreight. As hundreds of thousands of cargo are being moved worldwide, it would be impossible to track cargo. But this problem is resolved and made so much under control through AWB. The AWB number being unique helps to track and trace the shipment. The AWB number, specifically, helps track the cargo and find its whereabouts. This real-time information gives confidence to the suppliers that the cargo can be traced and will not be lost in transit.
All airlines and courier companies have track and trace modules on their website. When the supplier or the consignee wants to track their cargo, they simply log in to the shipper’s website and enter the AWB Number. Within a few minutes, the website will revert with the cargo status details. It will also show the historical background data from when the cargo was loaded from the despatch airport. This will build the confidence of the shipper and the consignee. Courier companies and airlines are trying to improve tracking features by adopting modern techniques such as AI, IoT, blockchain, etc.
Shiprocket provides effective solutions for air freight. Shiprocket has distinguished itself by providing effective, economical and practical solutions to airfreight problems. Some of the features of Shiprocket’s solutions are:-
The AWB number is a crucial element in the airfreight industry. It helps to track and trace cargo and provides critical information about the goods being transported. With its unique identification code, the AWB number enables suppliers and consignees to track their cargo in real-time and ensure that it arrives at its intended destination on time and in good condition. Understanding the role of the AWB number and its importance in air transportation can help you to ensure that your cargo arrives safely and efficiently.
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