HAWB

Term from Freight Forwarding industry explained for recruiters

HAWB (House Air Waybill) is an important shipping document used in air freight forwarding. Think of it as a receipt or tracking document that freight forwarders create when consolidating multiple shipments. It's similar to a ticket for your luggage when flying, but for commercial cargo. When multiple small shipments are combined into one larger shipment, each individual package gets its own HAWB, while the main shipment gets a MAWB (Master Air Waybill). This system helps keep track of individual shipments within larger consolidated cargo loads.

Examples in Resumes

Processed over 500 HAWB documents monthly for international air shipments

Managed documentation including House Air Waybill creation and tracking

Coordinated with airlines and customs officials using HAWB and house airway bill documentation

Typical job title: "Documentation Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Air Freight Coordinator Shipping Documentation Specialist Export Documentation Specialist Air Export Coordinator Freight Documentation Agent Cargo Documentation Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where there's a discrepancy between the HAWB and MAWB?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain the process of document reconciliation, coordination with agents and airlines, and how to prevent such issues in the future through proper documentation procedures.

Q: What are the key considerations when consolidating multiple HAWBs under one MAWB?

Expected Answer: Should discuss weight distribution, compatible goods checking, proper documentation for each shipment, customs requirements, and coordinating with different shippers and consignees.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What information must be included on a HAWB?

Expected Answer: Should list essential elements like shipper/consignee details, description of goods, weights, dimensions, terms of carriage, and special handling instructions.

Q: How do you ensure compliance with customs requirements when preparing HAWBs?

Expected Answer: Should explain checking proper documentation, accurate goods classification, value declaration, and coordination with customs brokers.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between a HAWB and MAWB?

Expected Answer: Should explain that HAWB is for individual shipments within a consolidation, while MAWB covers the entire consolidated shipment from airline's perspective.

Q: What are common mistakes to avoid when preparing HAWBs?

Expected Answer: Should mention accurate weight recording, correct contact information, proper goods description, and checking for complete documentation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic air freight documentation
  • Data entry accuracy
  • Understanding of HAWB basics
  • Communication with team members

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex shipment documentation
  • Problem-solving documentation issues
  • Understanding of customs requirements
  • Coordination with multiple parties

Senior (5+ years)

  • Managing consolidated shipments
  • Training junior staff
  • Handling documentation disputes
  • Process improvement implementation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic HAWB components
  • No knowledge of air freight documentation
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • Poor understanding of shipping terms and Incoterms