Fast air freight demand even quicker updates. With AWB tracking, you can see exactly where your goods are. Today’s article provides practical steps, free tools, and country-specific resources to help you track shipments from China with confidence. Therefore, you never have to ask, “How can I track my AWB number?” again.
What is AWB tracking?
Air Waybill number tracking refers to monitoring your shipment’s journey using a unique AWB number issued by the airline or freight forwarder.
This 11-digit number allows you to see:
- When the cargo was booked and departed.
- Arrival and customs clearance status.
- Any transit or delay information.
How to read your airway bill number?
Your AWB number contains critical identifiers:
- First three digits:Airline code (e.g., “125” for Qatar Airways).
- Next seven digits:Shipment serial number.
- Check digit (Last number):Used to verify accuracy.
By entering your AWB tracking number on an airline’s or third-party tracking site, you can instantly see your cargo’s current location and status.
Free AWB tracking websites by country
If you’re shipping from China to the USA, UK, Europe, Australia, or Mexico, you can use these free tools to track your shipment:
Global universal air tracking
Covers hundreds of airlines worldwide. Just enter your airway bill number tracking number and select the airline.
USA
Below are the main carriers, each with its dedicated airway bill tracking page:
UK & Europe
For shipments to the UK or Europe, you can track your AWB number with the airlines below. Alternatively, use Track-Trace for all EU air cargo from China.
Australia
Most Australian imports from China pass through Sydney or Melbourne. To track your airway bill number with the prime airlines serving Australia, use:
Mexico
For cargo from China to Mexico, these carriers offer dedicated AWB tracking portals:
Track-Trace also works well for Mexico-bound shipments, offering a bilingual interface for convenience.
Common issues with airway bill tracking and how to fix them
Even with reliable airway bill number tracking tools, challenges arise that can confuse shippers and buyers. Here are the most common issues and how to handle them:
- Delayed status updates: Airlines typically update tracking information every few hours, rather than in real-time. If your AWB tracking number shows the same status for hours, check back later.
- Incorrect AWB number: A single mistyped digit in your 11-digit airway bill number results in no tracking info. Confirm your airway bill carefully before searching.
- Multiple airline codes in one shipment: If tracking stalls, try entering your airway bill number with the appropriate prefix on each airline’s site to follow each leg.
- Customs clearance holds: The AWB system may only say “arrived”; for clearance status, contact your freight forwarder directly.
Why work with a professional freight forwarder
While anyone can input an AWB tracking number online, a professional freight forwarder ensures:
- Immediate status notifications.
- Direct communication with airlines for clarification.
- Proactive updates during delays or customs issues.
In short, having a logistics partner manage your international AWB tracking saves you time and reduces uncertainty.
Airsupply: One-stop air freight and AWB tracking services
Airsupply is a leading China-based international freight forwarder offering one-stop air freight and AWB tracking solutions. We ensure fast, synchronized status updates and dedicated customer support for every shipment. From booking to final delivery, we keep your cargo and your business moving.
