The automated processing of documents and the use of AI many processes can be sustainably optimized and accelerated. Companies in the logistics sector also benefit enormously from the new technologies. In this use case, we show you the added value of automating air waybills.
Challenge
In the logistics industry, the efficient processing and archiving of delivery bills is essential. In air freight, Air Waybills (AWB) or air waybills are critical documents that serve as the contractual basis for the transportation of goods between shipper and carrier. In view of the increasing volume of air freight shipments and growing legal requirements, an automated solution is required to optimize this process. The challenges to be solved by the automation of air freight in logistics are in particular
- Manual processes - The previous manual handling of documents for transportation and air freight was time-consuming and required a lot of resources.
- Error-proneness - Manual data entry carries the risk of errors that lead to delays and additional costs.
- Growing requirements - With the increasing volume of freight shipments and stricter legal requirements, the pressure on logistics companies to find more efficient solutions is growing.
- Versatile document content - The different information in air waybills requires a flexible and precise system.
What is an air waybill?
An Air Waybill (AWB) is an essential contract for the transportation of goods that is signed between the shipper and the freight or air carrier, usually an airline. This important document serves as confirmation of receipt for the shipped goods and as written proof of the contract concluded for their transportation.
Contents of an air waybill:
- AWB number - Each air waybill has a unique number that is registered by the airline. This number plays a crucial role in the overall logistics tracking of the shipment.
- Contact of the sender - The sender's name and full address are recorded in this area to ensure a smooth transport route.
- Contact of the recipient - The name and full address of the recipient are also documented for the transportation route.
- Airport of departure and arrival - These sections provide information about the route of the freight, from which airport it takes off and at which airport it lands.
- Description of the goods - This part contains extensive information on the type and quantity of goods being transported. Special requirements for handling the goods may also be noted here.
- Weight and volume - The recording of the actual or volumetric weight of the consignment, depending on which value is greater.
- Freight and other charges - This section provides detailed information on the costs of transportation, including logistics and freight costs and other charges to be borne by the shipper or consignee.
- Instructions for handling the cargo - This section may contain special instructions for the safe handling of the cargo, especially when dangerous goods or perishable goods are involved.
- Signature of the sender and the airline - In order for the air waybill to be legally binding, both the sender and the airline must sign and register it.
Objective
Logistics companies are looking for a solution that increases the efficiency and accuracy of document processing. The main objectives include automating the digitization and indexing of air waybills, ensuring regulatory compliance and improving customer service. This automation should also reduce operating costs and minimize errors.
Konfuzio has already successfully implemented the automated document selection of air waybills and the optimization of logistics processes at Zurich Airport. You can find all the information here here.
Implementation
To achieve these goals, it is advisable to use intelligent software for Document processing. This enables the automated reading, separation and indexing of documents and air waybills. This allows relevant information to be obtained quickly and reliably and integrated into the target systems. Konfuzio offers just such a solution, making it a reliable partner for companies in the logistics sector. The main functions for the automation of air waybills are...
- Automatic digitization and separation - Konfuzio not only digitizes data and information from individual documents, but also from multi-page scans. The software can differentiate between these and AI Splitting from each other automatically.
- Automated further processing - By digitizing the documents and extracting the relevant information in a structured way, the data can be processed in real time. Implementation takes place via an interface (API), where the data is available in the company software after it has been read.
- Automatic indexing - The scanned documents and air waybills are indexed based on the AWB or delivery bill numbers and other relevant information. This makes them easy to find and search in the archive.
- Simple search and retrieval - By indexing and keywording the scanned documents, information is just a query away. All documents and air waybills can be searched quickly and easily.
- Compliance with data protection standards - Digital access to documents and data allows you to define individual rules for access and retention. Adherence to compliance and data protection standards as well as statutory retention periods are therefore guaranteed at all times.
Conclusion - Automation of air waybills
By implementing Konfuzio, companies can significantly optimize their processes. Automation in logistics leads to greater process stability and increased efficiency in handling delivery bills and air waybills. These are now available in the archive system almost in real time after receipt of the freight at the airport and the documents can be retrieved and made available quickly if required.
Overall, this use case shows how collaboration with Konfuzio leads to more efficient and effective processes in the logistics sector.
The digitalization and automation of air waybills enables companies in the industry to increase their efficiency and reduce costs at the same time.
