More than a reference for couriers, familiarizing yourself with the functionality of waybills or air waybills (often referred to as AWB) is a must in running your ecommerce business.
It’s a crucial document in the logistics industry and plays a significant role in facilitating the movement of your parcels. Meaning, it helps ensure that your packages will get to your customers without any issues.
In the Philippines, ecommerce shippers use AWB more than waybills, even though they have different scopes (AWBs are more specific to air shipments).
Also read: What is Cross Border Ecommerce?
What is a waybill and air waybill, and why are they important?
Waybills and air waybills are printed documents (usually in a sticker material) that contains information about the parcel being transported.
This also works as a contract between the sender and the courier, used to ensure that the parcel is under the responsibility of the courier and it arrives at the recipient’s doorstep (based on the SLA).
it can have a smooth delivery.
Generally, they it include the following details:
- Waybill number. A unique identifier for the waybill, which is used for tracking and reference purposes.
- Shipper information. Full name and address of the shipper (the party sending the goods).
- Consignee information. Full name and address of the consignee or customer (the party receiving the goods).
- Courier Information. Name and contact details of the courier (the company responsible for delivering the goods).
- Shipment details. Description of the goods being shipped, including quantity, weight, dimensions and packaging details.
- Shipping terms. Terms and conditions of the shipment, including any special instructions or requirements.
- Special handling instructions. Any special instructions regarding the handling of the cargo, such as temperature requirements or fragility.
- Declared value for item. The declared value of the goods for the purpose of determining the carrier’s liability in case of loss or damage.
- Terms and conditions. Any specific terms and conditions of the transportation agreement between the shipper and the carrier.
International shipments may also include the following details:
- Origin and destination addresses. The address of the place of departure (origin) and the destination for the shipment.
- Freight charges. Information about the cost of transportation and any additional charges related to the shipment.
- Documentary Credit Information (if applicable). For international shipments, details related to documentary credit or payment terms may be included.
- Date of Shipment. The date when the goods are handed over to the carrier for transportation.
- Signature and stamp. The signature of the shipper or their authorized representative, along with any official stamps or seals.
Waybills and air waybills allow transparency in the entire delivery process and help prevent any confusion during sorting, transportation and delivery.
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Air Waybill vs Bill of Lading
The key difference between an air waybill vs a bill of landing is the mode of transportation.
As mentioned earlier, air waybill is a document used to track packages transported via air freight. On the other hand, a bill of lading (or B/L) is a document for sea freight forwarding of cargoes.
Additionally, a bill of lading is signed by the ship’s captain and works as written documentation regarding receipt of the goods, the required conditions for the transportation, and the commitment to fulfill the delivery of the goods.
How waybills and air waybills help your business
Your waybills or air waybills will help you manage shipments and ensure their hassle-free deliveries, including compliance with customs regulations.
Including the complete and correct details in your AWBs helps you provide excellent customer service as you can easily give consignees timely updates on the shipment via their tracking numbers.
More than these benefits, here are the more detailed business impacts of waybills and air waybills.
1. Proof of Shipment
Serving as concrete proof, a waybill or airway bill provides documents that the carrier has accepted and has already taken responsibility for the goods being shipped.
In case there are issues, this document is crucial for any disputes or claims. Furthermore, this also protects both the shipper and the carrier or courier by establishing a clear record of the goods being handed over for transportation.
2. Customs Clearance
Since customs authorities require accurate and complete information about the goods being imported or exported, the waybill or airway bill is crucial here. The essential details that should be included are the shipper’s and receiver’s information, parcel contents and declared values.
As a quick reference, this information can help customs officials to process and clear the shipment efficiently, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and avoiding delays or penalties.
3. Tracking and Tracing
Since each airway bill is assigned with a unique tracking number, this allows all parties involved to efficiently track and trace the shipment’s progress.
Moreover, with today’s technology, it’s also possible to get real-time updates on the location and status of the shipment, providing transparency and accountability. This eliminates back-and-forth for the parties involved and limits customer complaints.
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4. Proof of Delivery
More than just a proof of shipment, this also works as proof of fulfilled shipment and that the parcel has reached its intended destination.
If there are disputes or claims after the delivery, the waybill or air waybill also works as your reference when filing the report to your courier.
Ensure efficiency in your shipments
The waybill or airway bill is a crucial component for ecommerce businesses and enterprises engaged in international shipping.
It not only facilitates the movement of goods but also contributes to efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction in the logistics fulfillment and supply chain processes.
Working with the right logistics partner will ensure speedy deliveries of your goods, whether local or international. Other than express deliveries, Ninja Van leverages its extensive network in China and Southeast Asia to provide shippers with tailor-fit solutions, including:
- Sourcing and Procurement
- Warehousing and Fulfillment
- Supply Chain Management
- B2B Supply Restocking
- Cross Border Fulfillment
Discover how Ninja Van can optimize your business for growth!
More helpful tips for your growing business:
5 Challenges in International Shipping
How 3PLs Help Your Ecommerce Business Grow
Shipping from China to the Philippines: An Easy Guide
