What is a Waybill?

Waybill meaning

A Waybill is a non-negotiable transport document detailing shipment contents, point of origin, route, and destination. This acts like a shipment passport for the customers and serves as a sender-receiver contract. However, it does not prove ownership of the goods.

Pro tip

Waybill or Way bill?

The correct term is "Waybill," although many people use the incorrect spelling "Way bill”.

Why is this important?

A Waybill is important because it serves as a contract, provides shipment details, facilitates customs clearance enables tracking and tracing, establishes liability and insurance coverage, and serves as a crucial document for documentation and record-keeping purposes.

Where is the Waybill number on the shipment/package?

The unique 12-digit tag is attached to the package and serves as a tracking number to help couriers and customs track it in real-time. It can also be used to send emails and SMS notifications to the receiver and shipper.

What are the different types of Waybills?

  • Air Waybill: A receipt provided by an airline carrier, generally used for shipments transported by air.
  • Sea Waybill: Used for port-to-port or combined transport carriage.
  • Astray Waybill: Used when a shipment gets separated from its original document.
  • Blanket Waybill: Used when there are multiple shipments listed on a single document.     

Related terms

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The information provided in this document does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal and/or business advice; instead, the information contained herein is for general informational purposes only. Readers of this document should contact their own advisor to obtain advice with respect to any particular matter or topic addressed herein. The content in this document is provided on an “as is” basis; FedEx makes no warranties or representations in relation to the currency, accuracy and/or sufficiency of the information set out herein and shall not be liable for any reliance placed on the same.  For the avoidance of doubt, any and all liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this document are hereby expressly disclaimed.