AWD — Documents Received by Airline

AWD (Documents Received by Airline) is a tracking status code indicating that the airline has received all required shipping documentation for an air cargo shipment from the freight forwarder or shipper. This status confirms that paperwork such as the air waybill, commercial invoice, packing list, and any required permits or certificates are in the airline's possession and have been processed. The AWD status typically precedes physical cargo acceptance and marks a critical checkpoint in the export process, as incomplete or missing documentation can delay shipment departure.

A freight forwarder submits AWB documentation to Lufthansa Cargo at Frankfurt (FRA) for shipment AWB 020-12345678; the airline's cargo handling system logs an FSU AWD status when the digital waybill is received and validated, often before the physical shipment arrives at the cargo terminal. An Emirates SkyCargo system records FSU AWD for AWB 176-87654321 when the consignor's freight forwarder transmits the e-AWB through the IATA ONE Record platform, marking the official start of the airline's documentary chain of custody.

• AWD
• documents received

What happens after my shipment shows AWD — Documents Received by Airline status?

After AWD status, the airline will typically schedule the shipment for physical cargo acceptance (RCS - Ready for Carriage Status), followed by build-up into unit load devices (ULD) and eventual flight loading. The timeframe varies by airline but usually occurs within 24-48 hours for standard cargo.

Why is my shipment stuck at AWD — Documents Received by Airline for several days?

Extended AWD status usually indicates missing or incorrect documentation, customs hold, security screening delays, or lack of available cargo space on scheduled flights. Contact the airline's cargo customer service with your AWB number to identify specific delays and required corrective actions.