New IATA DAWB Rules: We Have Strengthened Our Cargo and Document Checks
As of 1 July 2026, updated IATA rules for Direct Air Waybills, or DAWBs, have come into effect.
The changes were adopted through the IATA Cargo Agency Conference. FIATA highlighted their legal, operational and insurance implications and initiated a formal review through the IATA-FIATA Consultative Council under IATA CAC Resolution 801c, Article 4.2.
The changes place greater emphasis on the accuracy of cargo information, supporting documentation and compliance with airline-specific requirements. For companies using air freight services, errors or discrepancies may result in delays, additional costs or carrier claims.
Particular attention should be paid to:
- accurate cargo descriptions and declared weight;
- Dangerous Goods documentation, including lithium batteries;
- packaging and labelling;
- customs and security requirements;
- consistency across transport and commercial documents;
- airline-specific DAWB requirements.
To help our clients meet the updated requirements, we have strengthened our cargo and document verification process before a Direct Air Waybill is issued.
Our team can help to:
- review the supporting document package;
- identify potential discrepancies;
- clarify the requirements of the selected airline;
- prepare the cargo and documentation for shipment.
A preliminary review helps identify inaccuracies in advance and reduce the risk of delays or additional costs during air transportation.
Contact our team for a preliminary document audit and document package optimisation before issuing a DAWB.