FedEx Air Waybill Processing: A Comprehensive Guide for Shippers

FedEx is a global leader in air freight transportation, and a crucial step in ensuring your shipment is accurately and efficiently processed is properly filling out an air waybill. Here’s a detailed guide on how FedEx handles handwritten air waybills and the process involved.

Introduction to Air Waybills in FedEx

Handwritten air waybills serve as an essential document that outlines the details of a shipment, including the sender, recipient, and valuable information needed for transporting goods via air. FedEx utilizes these documents to track and deliver packages accurately and securely.

Preparation and Submission of Air Waybills

The air waybill is divided into two main copies: the too copy and the billing copy. Both these copies, along with an additional copy attached to the package, ensure a well-rounded process for accurate documentation. It is important to press down enough to make the address visible through all three copies, ensuring clarity and readability.

Handling the Waybill Copies

The too copy, often kept by the shipper, provides a record of what has been sent and serves as a reference for any future inquiries.

The billing copy is handed over to the driver and taken to the processing station at the end of the day. It is here that the package is weighed, scanned, and entered into the FedEx system for billing purposes.

The third copy is attached to the package, ensuring that the shipping details are readily available in case of any transit issues or inquiries.

Accounting and Billing Process

To use FedEx air services, you either need to have an account or visit an authorized FedEx location to process your shipment. A FedEx account ensures faster and more efficient processing, avoiding the need for physical presence at every delivery.

Using an Account for Shipment

With a FedEx account, only the top copy of the air waybill, which includes your account number, is submitted for processing at the FedEx station.

The bottom copy, containing the customer’s details, is not retained by FedEx and is used internally for billing purposes.

Your account is charged, and the package is tagged for immediate shipment.

No Account: On-Site Processing

If you do not have an account, you must go to a FedEx location in person to process your shipment.

A courier cannot accept credit cards or cash since transactions must be processed through the FedEx account system.

The local FedEx office will handle all the necessary procedures, with details captured directly into the FedEx system.

Conclusion

The proper processing of FedEx air waybills is crucial to ensure smooth and trouble-free shipping. By following the outlined procedures, shippers can minimize errors and delays, ensuring that their goods reach their destination on time and in excellent condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can couriers accept credit cards for FedEx shipments?

No, couriers at FedEx locations cannot accept credit cards for shipments. Transactions must be processed directly through the FedEx account system.

What happens if a shipper does not have a FedEx account?

If a shipper lacks a FedEx account, they must visit an authorized FedEx location to process their shipment in person. All necessary details are captured directly into the FedEx system.

How should the air waybill copies be handled for optimal documentation?

The too copy is kept by the sender, the billing copy is submitted to the FedEx station with the package, and the third copy is attached to the package for transit.