If you’ve worked in retail, you probably understand the importance of product codes. Air waybill numbers act like unique bar codes for your products during shipping.
An air waybill number is a unique number given to packages that ship with an international air courier. The number is documented in the air waybill, which accompanies the shipment throughout its delivery process.
What’s in the AWB Number?
The air waybill number contains vital information about the shipment, such as:
- Which airport the shipment was dispatched from.
- The package’s total weight.
- The shipment’s declared value.
- The number of individual pieces in the package.
- The sender’s name and address.
- The receiver’s name and address.
- Special notes.
An air waybill document has several copies so that all the parties involved in shipment can document it.
Benefits of an AWB Tracking Number
The air waybill tracking number facilitates package tracking for international air shipments.
Different stops along a shipment’s delivery act as checkpoints. The parties involved with shipping at each of these stops document the shipment’s AWB tracking number.
Therefore, consumers and the shipping company can estimate the shipment’s current location by checking the last checkpoint that documented its tracking number.
This offers accountability in case of a late delivery or misplaced package. The shipping company can track where the package was last documented and investigate what happened.
What Does an Air Waybill Number Look Like?
While air waybill tracking numbers will look different depending on a few factors, they usually follow the same general pattern. We can break them down into the following sections:
- The first two or three numbers in an air waybill tracking number represent the carrier or airline.
- The middle section is a unique set of numbers that act as the parcel’s serial number.
- The final section might have a financial check digit. There might also be a few abbreviations that vary between airlines and carriers.
Fortunately, you don’t need to know how to interpret your shipment’s air waybill tracking number because GDS freight has an automatic detection system that will track your shipment when it reads your AWB tracking number.
What’s the Difference Between an AWB and a Bill of Lading?
An AWB is a type of bill of lading. However, unlike other bills of lading, an air waybill is always a non-negotiable shipping document.
This means buyers could receive their goods at their airport by providing their identification details against the recipient’s information on the consignee’s section of the air waybill form.
A bill of lading is used in a negotiable form. As a result, a bill of lading must be provided to the carrier’s nominated agent to claim ownership of the shipment.
A bill of lading is also commonly used with sea-to-sea shipments, while an AWB is used in air shipments.
Start Tracking Your Shipments With an AWB Code Today
International air shipments can be expensive and risky. The shipments often go through several stops before getting to the final destination, your doorstep.
As a result, it’s essential to use a reputable shipping service to ensure you get your packages on time and in good condition.
GDS Freight is an all-in-one logistics company that guarantees premium services, including waybill tracking.
Our innovative shipment tracking technology allows you to use the waybill number to get an accurate location of your shipment. Our shippers are also well-trained in professional handling, ensuring you receive your goods in one piece.
Working with us will guarantee you a fast and pleasant air shipping experience. Get a quote today and start shipping with the best.