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Ever stared at a parcel label and confused like, ‘Is this an air waybill, a consignment notes… or just some normal sticker stuck on the box?’ Don’t worry – you’re not alone!
Whether you’re an online seller, a business owner, or simply someone who sends many parcels, it’s important to understand the difference between an Air Waybill (AWB) and a Consignment Note.
Let’s start!
Contents
What is an Air Waybill (AWB)?
An Air Waybill (AWB) is a key shipping document used internally by courier companies and logistics providers. It acts as a contract of carriage between the shipper (usually a courier company) and the carrier. Although the courier company can see some information like the tracking number details of sender and receiver, address and what product. The AWB is mainly for couriers, they can manage, scan, and track the parcel during delivery.
Types of Transportation:
- Lorry
- Motorcycle
- Van
- Airplane
What is a Consignment Note?
Source: Herb Blanchard Haulage
A Consignment Note is a document used for all types of transport—land, sea, rail, and air. It proves that the goods have been handed over from the sender to the courier or transport company.It includes important details such as the sender’s and receiver’s information, description of goods, number of pallets (if any), weight, and the sender’s or customer’s signature.
Types of Transportation:
- Land (e.g., trucks, vans)
- Air (e.g., cargo flights)
- Sea (e.g., cargo ships)
- Rail (e.g., freight trains)
Air Waybill vs Consignment Note: What’s the Difference?
Feature | Air Waybill (AWB) | Consignment Note |
Transport Mode | Lorry, Van, Motorcycle, Airplane | All modes (land, air, sea, rail) |
Purpose | Acts as a contract of carriage between courier and carrier | Serves as proof of goods received by the courier |
Includes | Tracking number, sender/receiver info, parcel details | Sender/receiver info, goods description, weight, signature |
Visibility | Mostly internal use by courier and logistics staff | Can be paper-based, sometimes visible to sender |
Which One is Most Used in Malaysia?
In Malaysia today, Air Waybills are often used, even for local deliveries.
Which Shipping Label Do You Get with EasyParcel?
EasyParcel generates an AWB label that serves as your shipment document. You can choose between:
- A4 format – standard full-page label
- Sticker format – compact 4×6″ thermal label for easy scanning
AWB or Consignment Note – both are important, but don’t worry! EasyParcel auto-generates the AWB for your delivery.
Just download, print, and stick the label – and your parcel is ready to go. EasyParcel makes shipping easy and simple!
FAQ
1. What’s the difference between AWB and a Consignment Note?
An AWB is for air delivery. It shows the sender, receiver, tracking number, and helps with customs. A consignment note is for all types of delivery. It proves the courier got the parcel and shows what’s being sent.
2. Do I need to create my own shipping label?
Nope! EasyParcel automatically generates the AWB for you.
3. What label formats are available?
You can choose between a full-page A4 label or a compact 4×6″ sticker (A6) format
