Swiss WorldCargo is the first carrier to sign up for the Proof of Concept for IATA’s “Multilateral e-Air Waybill Agreement.” The model agreement for electronic data interchange (EDI) as a substitute for the traditional paper air waybill is proposed to become “multilateral.” The objective is to have the bilateral EDI agreements between the forwarders and the carriers replaced by a single multilateral agreement. The concept is that forwarders entering into the agreement with IATA effectively enter into agreements with all participating carriers who have appointed IATA as their agent to enter into the agreements with the forwarders on their behalf.
A Proof of Concept has been launched by IATA with a group of freight forwarders and carriers to trial the draft agreement and provide recommendations on potential enhancements. IATA anticipates adopting the final version of the agreement to be effective by mid-2013.
Swiss WorldCargo is the first carrier to sign up for the Proof of Concept for IATA’s “Multilateral e-Air Waybill Agreement.” The model agreement for electronic data interchange (EDI) as a substitute for the traditional paper air waybill is proposed to become “multilateral.” The objective is to have the bilateral EDI agreements between the forwarders and the carriers replaced by a single multilateral agreement. The concept is that forwarders entering into the agreement with IATA effectively enter into agreements with all participating carriers who have appointed IATA as their agent to enter into the agreements with the forwarders on their behalf.
A Proof of Concept has been launched by IATA with a group of freight forwarders and carriers to trial the draft agreement and provide recommendations on potential enhancements. IATA anticipates adopting the final version of the agreement to be effective by mid-2013.