Understanding the DHL Express air waybill

Whether you’re managing an export business in Myanmar or simply wishing to send a care parcel to relatives or friends overseas, it’s essential to dispatch your packages with the air waybill (AWB) included. In global shipping, the AWB is an indispensable document, playing a pivotal role in international shipping from Myanmar by outlining the journey and specific requirements for the transport of goods.

This article will unpack the essentials of this document, examining its importance and providing guidance on how to accurately complete it for seamless international shipping.

Explaining the air waybill

The air waybill is a critical document in the shipping process, encapsulating detailed information necessary for the secure and efficient transport of goods. It serves as proof of the consignment's ownership, detailing the specifics of both the sender and the receiver. Essential for the smooth execution of international shipments, the waybill must be accurately filled out and submitted by the sender prior to shipping. Typically affixed to the package's exterior, it allows customs officials to quickly access key shipment details.

Air waybills vs. commercial invoices

Completely separate from the AWB, the commercial invoice acts as a formal demand for payment for goods sold internationally. It is used when goods are part of a commercial transaction or intended for resale and is required when sending non-document shipments to countries and territories outside of Myanmar¹. The commercial invoice usually contains crucial information needed for customs clearance, such as the shipment’s destination, payment methods, and trade conditions.

Customs officials rely on the commercial invoice to determine the duties, taxes, and tariffs due, making its accuracy paramount in avoiding delays during the customs inspection process. 

An introduction to DHL Express's air waybill

The air waybill is central to DHL Express’s international shipping process, serving as the official transport document for overseas shipping. Its importance cannot be understated, as it legally binds DHL Express to the shipment, ensuring accountability and security from departure to destination.

With DHL Express, the AWB number also doubles as a convenient tool for tracking shipments. Recipients can also track their incoming shipment by its waybill number. On our site, the recipient will be able to get the latest status updates and coordinate with their local DHL Express for an optimal delivery time or collection.

What information is on the DHL Express air waybill?

DHL Express's AWB contains multiple fields that must be properly filled up when preparing your shipment. This ensures that all details match the contents and the shipping invoice, allowing the shipment to be cleared by customs without unnecessary delays.

Here are the fields on the AWB that are mandatory for shippers to provide:

• Sender’s details: Basic information about the sender, such as the sender’s name or company name, contact details, address, city and state.
• Recipient details: Basic information about the recipient, such as their name, contact details, address, city, state, and also postcode.
• Goods description: A basic description of the goods and the declaration that the items are not under the prohibited items list.
• Weight of the parcel: The total weight and the dimensional weight of the parcel.
• Services and charges: The total shipment fees required and any additional charges if you were to need repack services.
• Insurance: The value of the goods to be reimbursed if the parcel is lost on its journey to the recipient.
• Payment: Information to notify the courier of which party will be paying for the goods when it is delivered.
• Destination area code: The receiver’s area code.
• Sender’s signature: This is the sender's official sign-off on the shipment, confirming the accuracy of the information provided.
• Dispature’s signature: This will be provided by the delivery person when they have picked up the shipment.
• Recipient’s signature: The recipient will sign on the consignment paper once he or she has successfully received the parcel.
• Remarks: Information regarding any specific requirements or delivery deadlines.

How to fill out the DHL Express air waybill

To accurately complete the waybill, follow these step-by-step instructions:

• Step 1: Start by entering the sender's full name, address, and contact details. 
• Step 2: Fill in the recipient's complete name, address, and contact information.
• Step 3: Describe the contents of your shipment precisely, including the total weight and dimensions. This information is vital for customs and determining the shipping cost.
• Step 4: Accurately declare the total value of the goods being shipped. This step is often overlooked, but it's essential for insurance and customs purposes.
• Step 5: Review all entered information for accuracy. Then, sign and date the waybill to confirm your agreement with DHL Express' terms and the correctness of the information provided.

To ensure your shipment is processed correctly, double-check the fields and ensure that no information is missing or incorrect. Do note that there is an expiration date for your air waybill, and it will be invalid past the date. Additionally, if you are trying to print your waybill but are unsure if it will be unusable for your shipment, we recommend printing your consignment notes at your local post station. 

Digital integration: MyDHL+ and air waybill preparation

If you're preparing to dispatch a shipment, you can consider creating your air waybill online with MyDHL+. This innovative platform facilitates the creation of complete and accurate shipping labels, markedly easing the process.

MyDHL+ is DHL Express' web-based shipping solution, tailor-made to refine your shipping activities. With its user-friendly interface, you can effortlessly import, export, track parcels, and settle bills. This comprehensive tool consolidates all your shipping needs into a single platform, ensuring a seamless experience without any complications. 

Shipment preparation resources

For more details on how to prepare your shipment for international shipping, find out about the required export documents and check out our packing basics to ensure your packages reach their destination on time and in perfect condition. Additionally, if you're dispatching valuable goods, we strongly recommend considering securing shipping insurance. This precaution safeguards your shipments against loss, damage, or theft during transit, providing peace of mind and financial protection. 

Simplify your shipping with DHL Express

Understanding and accurately completing the DHL Express AWB is crucial for a smooth shipping experience without unnecessary delays. To streamline your shipping process further, make MyDHL+ your go-to for all your shipping needs and experience hassle-free logistics. 

For more assistance, check out the resources and guides above or create a DHL Express business account today and begin shipping internationally with confidence!