Full formBusiness & Corporate
AWBstands forAir Waybill
Full Form of AWB
What is AWB?
An Air Waybill (AWB) is a non-negotiable document issued by an airline or its agent that serves as a contract of carriage for air freight shipments. It contains essential details such as the shipper and consignee names, origin and destination airports, number of pieces, weight, and description of goods. In India, the AWB is widely used in the logistics and e-commerce sectors, especially for cross-border trade and domestic air cargo. It is governed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards and is mandatory for all air shipments. The AWB number (11 digits, starting with the airline code) is used for tracking shipments through airline and third-party systems. For students of commerce and logistics, understanding the AWB is crucial for clearing exams like CA, CMA, or MBA in supply chain management. It differs from a Bill of Lading (used in ocean freight) in that it is not a title document and is issued directly by the carrier. In India, platforms like Delhi Air Cargo Terminal and Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport process thousands of AWBs daily. The document also facilitates customs clearance and is often required for export incentives under schemes like MEIS and ROSCTL. While not negotiable, the AWB ensures transparency and accountability in air freight operations, making it a cornerstone of modern logistics.
AWB का फुल फॉर्म
हवाई मार्ग पत्रक
Example
Please provide the AWB number so we can track your shipment from Delhi to Singapore.
AWB — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of AWB?
The full form of AWB is Air Waybill, which is a non-negotiable document used for air freight shipments.
What is the difference between AWB and Bill of Lading?
An AWB is used for air cargo and is non-negotiable, whereas a Bill of Lading is used for sea freight and can be negotiable (to order).
How many digits are in an AWB number?
An AWB number typically has 11 digits, with the first three representing the airline code and the remaining eight being the serial number.