Meaning
Non-negotiable transport documents issued by air carriers act as receipts of goods and evidence of the contract of carriage. Every air waybill contains essential tracking numbers, airport codes, and carriage conditions for lithium battery consignments. This document does not confer title to the goods and ceases to apply once the cargo is delivered to the consignee.
Cargo Contract
International aviation treaties dictate the mandatory liability limits and standard terms printed on the reverse side of shipment paperwork. The air waybill establishes these binding conditions between the shipper and the airline before takeoff. Each party receives a signed copy to resolve any later transit disputes.
Custody Record
Ground handling agents scan the barcode at each transfer point to maintain a continuous log of the physical cargo. This digital history linked to the air waybill allows logistics managers to locate battery pallets during multi-leg flights. Airline staff can quickly isolate shipments in an emergency by referencing these records, which list the exact cargo compartment and container number on the aircraft.
Delivery Proof
Consignee signatures on the final document confirm the receipt of the cargo in good condition. Once this air waybill is signed, the carrier is released from liability for visible external damage. This final scan closes the active transit file.
