What is required for an airline airwaybill (AWB) to be considered 'issued'?

An airline airwaybill (AWB) is considered 'issued' when it is signed by an airline employee upon cargo acceptance. This signature indicates that the airline has formally accepted the cargo for transport, which is a crucial step in the process of shipping goods via air. The acceptance by the airline signifies that the cargo has been received and meets the necessary conditions for transport, making the AWB an important legal document in the shipping process.

While including the weight of the cargo and potentially being printed electronically are important for the AWB's completeness and usability, these aspects do not alone signify that the AWB has been officially issued. Acceptance by the consignee is also not a requirement for an AWB to be considered issued; the critical moment is when the airline acknowledges receipt of the cargo with a signature. This step not only finalizes the agreement between the shipper and the airline but also activates various rights and responsibilities under air freight regulations.