How to Download an Airway Bill and Why You Need It
If you are shipping goods by air, you need an airway bill (AWB) to ensure a smooth and secure delivery. An AWB is a document that accompanies your shipment and provides vital information about it, such as the contents, the sender, the recipient, the terms and conditions, and the tracking number. It also serves as a receipt of goods by the carrier and a contract of carriage between you and the carrier.
An AWB is different from a bill of lading (BOL), which is used for sea shipments. A BOL is a document of title, meaning that it can be transferred to another party and prove ownership of the goods. An AWB, on the other hand, is not a document of title, meaning that it cannot be transferred and does not cover the merchandise value.
Downloading an AWB has many benefits for you as a shipper. It can help you:
- Save time and money by avoiding paper forms and manual errors
- Access your shipment details anytime and anywhere
- Track your shipment status and location easily
- Comply with customs regulations and avoid delays
- Protect your goods from damage or loss
In this article, we will show you how to download an AWB from different carriers, how to track your shipment using an AWB number, and why you need it.
How to Download an AWB from Different Carriers
Different carriers have different methods and tools for issuing and downloading an AWB. Here are some examples of how to download an AWB from FedEx, UPS, and DHL.
FedEx
If you are a FedEx account holder, you can request a copy of your AWB online or by phone. To request it online, log in to FedEx Billing Online with your user ID and password. Then, select “View/Pay Bills Online” from the navigation bar. Next, select “Search/Download” from the drop-down menu. You can search for your AWB by date range, invoice number, account number, or air waybill number. Once you find your AWB, you can download it as a PDF file.
To request it by phone, call 1.800.GoFedEx 1.800.463.3339 and say “billing.” Then, follow the prompts to speak with a customer service representative. You will need to provide your account number, air waybill number, and email address. The representative will email you a copy of your AWB.
If you are not a FedEx account holder, you can still download an AWB online using the Quick Form. This is a pre-filled form that allows you to generate a new AWB using pre-saved information. You can download the quick form from the FedEx website and save it on your computer. Then, open it with Adobe Reader and enter the required information in the fields. You can print or email the completed form to yourself or your recipient. You can also join FedEx Billing Online for free and enjoy more benefits, such as viewing, paying, and disputing your invoices online.
UPS
If you are a UPS account holder, you can complete an AWB online or manually. To complete it online, log in to UPS.com with your user ID and password. Then, select “Create a Shipment” from the navigation bar. Next, enter the shipment details, such as the origin, destination, service, package type, weight, and dimensions. You can also add optional services, such as insurance, delivery confirmation, or signature required. Once you complete the shipment details, you can review and print your AWB.
To complete it manually, you can use a pre-printed AWB provided by UPS or download an AWB request form from the UPS website. You can fill out the form by hand or use a typewriter. You will need to provide the same information as the online tool, plus your account number and contact information. You can then attach the form to your package and hand it over to a UPS driver or drop it off at a UPS location.
DHL
If you are a DHL account holder, you can create and print an AWB online or by phone. To create it online, log in to MyDHL+ with your user ID and password. Then, select “Ship Now” from the navigation bar. Next, enter the shipment details, such as the sender, receiver, service, package type, weight, and dimensions. You can also add optional services, such as insurance, customs clearance, or special handling. Once you create your shipment, you can print your AWB and attach it to your package.
To create it by phone, call 1-800-CALL DHL (1-800-225-5345) and speak with a customer service representative. You will need to provide your account number and the same information as the online tool. The representative will create your shipment and email you a copy of your AWB. You can then print it and attach it to your package.
How to Track Your Shipment Using an AWB Number
An AWB number is a unique identifier that consists of three digits followed by eight or nine digits. For example, 123-4567890 or 123-45678901. It is usually found on the top right corner of your AWB or in the confirmation email from your carrier.
You can use your AWB number to track your shipment on different carrier websites or apps. Here are some examples of how to do that:
- FedEx: Go to FedEx Tracking and enter your AWB number in the search box. You can also scan the barcode on your AWB using the FedEx app.
- UPS: Go to UPS Tracking and enter your AWB number in the search box. You can also scan the barcode on your AWB using the UPS app.
- DHL: Go to DHL Tracking and enter your AWB number in the search box. You can also scan the barcode on your AWB using the DHL app.
You can also track your shipment using some alternative ways, such as email or SMS notifications. For example, you can sign up for FedEx Delivery Manager, UPS My Choice, or DHL On Demand Delivery and receive updates on your shipment status and location via email or SMS.
Conclusion
An AWB is an essential document for air cargo shipments that provides important information about your shipment and serves as a contract of carriage between you and the carrier. Downloading an AWB can help you save time and money, access your shipment details anytime and anywhere, track your shipment status and location easily, comply with customs regulations and avoid delays, and protect your goods from damage or loss.
To download an AWB, you need to follow the instructions of your carrier and provide the required information about your shipment. Different carriers have different methods and tools for issuing and downloading an AWB. You can also use your AWB number to track your shipment on different carrier websites or apps.
Here are some tips or recommendations for using an AWB effectively:
- Make sure you fill out the AWB accurately and completely to avoid errors or delays
- Keep a copy of your AWB for future reference or proof of delivery
- Check the terms and conditions of your carrier before signing the AWB and understand your rights and obligations
- Compare the rates and services of different carriers before choosing the best one for your shipment
- Use a reliable and secure carrier that has a good reputation and track record
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about downloading an AWB:
What is the difference between an AWB and an e-AWB?
An AWB is a paper document that accompanies your shipment and provides vital information about it. An e-AWB is an electronic version of an AWB that replaces the paper document and allows you to transmit the information electronically. An e-AWB has the same legal status as an AWB and offers more benefits, such as faster processing, reduced errors, and lower costs.
How can I get an AWB number?
You can get an AWB number from your carrier when you create your shipment. The carrier will assign you a unique AWB number that consists of three digits followed by eight or nine digits. For example, 123-4567890 or 123-45678901. You can also find your AWB number on the top right corner of your AWB or in the confirmation email from your carrier.
How can I download an AWB without an account?
If you do not have an account with your carrier, you can still download an AWB online using some tools or forms provided by the carrier. For example, you can use the FedEx Quick Form, the UPS Air Waybill Request Form, or the DHL Online Shipping Tool to generate a new AWB using pre-saved or entered information. You can then download, print, or email the completed form to yourself or your recipient.
How long is an AWB valid for?
An AWB is valid for as long as the shipment is in transit. Once the shipment is delivered, the AWB is no longer valid and cannot be used again. However, you should keep a copy of your AWB for future reference or proof of delivery.
What if I lose my AWB?
If you lose your AWB, you should contact your carrier as soon as possible and request a copy of it. You will need to provide your account number, air waybill number, and email address. The carrier will email you a copy of your AWB. You can also download a copy of your AWB online if you have access to your carrier’s website or app.
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