Who Issues the Air Waybill (AWB)?

The Air Waybill (AWB) is one of the most critical documents in air cargo. But who is officially responsible for issuing and preparing it? Let's clarify the legal rules.

The Primary Issuers: Forwarders and Carriers

In standard logistics, the AWB is prepared and issued by two main entities:

• IATA Cargo Agents / Freight Forwarders: They issue the **House AWB (HAWB)** to the exporter and complete the data entry for the **Master AWB (MAWB)** on behalf of the airline.
• Airline Carriers: The airline (e.g. Qatar Airways or Cargolux) issues the **Master Air Waybill (MAWB)**, validating that space has been booked and carriage accepted.

Signatures and Validity

An Air Waybill is officially issued when it is signed by the shipper (or their forwarder agent) and the carrier's authorized representative. The document represents a non-negotiable contract of carriage that binds both parties to IATA transit regulations.