AIR FREIGHT DOCUMENTATION
House Air Waybill (HAWB)
A house air waybill is a freight forwarder’s air shipment document for its customer’s consignment. Where shipments are consolidated, house records can relate individual consignments to a master air waybill for the airline movement.
HOUSE AIR WAYBILL IN PRACTICE
- Identify the consignmentCapture the forwarder’s house reference.
- Link the movementRecord the relevant master reference.
- Reconcile the recordsCheck pieces, weights and delivery instructions.
Use the agreed units, actual records and approved procedures for your operation.
A WORKED EXAMPLE
One airline movement can hold several consignments.
A forwarder consolidates three customers’ shipments. Each has its own house reference and shipment details, while the consolidated airline movement has a master reference. The records retain both levels.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR QUOTE
Agree the requirement before comparing quotes
Use the actual shipment, stock and service requirements. Record the billing unit, included work and responsibility for exceptions.
A LITTLE MORE CONTEXT
Questions about House Air Waybill
Are house and master references interchangeable?
No. They describe different document relationships.
Can a master movement cover several house consignments?
Yes, in a consolidation.
Does airline arrival prove final customer delivery?
No. Further release and delivery events may remain.
Source & example notes
IATA: air cargo documents and handling.
Sources provide background on the linked topic. Product documentation describes a particular implementation; confirm the rules, contract and procedures that apply to your operation.
Quantities, costs and scenarios are illustrative, not operating targets, approved handling instructions or guarantees. Source guidance reviewed 22 October 2026.
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