A DHL Air Waybill (AWB) number is the shipment’s primary ID for DHL Express. Entering this number on the carrier site or on Ship24 shows scan events from pickup through customs and final delivery. This page explains what the AWB is, where to find it on a label, how to track it, and how to fix common issues.
What is a DHL AWB number?
The AWB (Air Waybill) is the main reference for DHL Express courier shipments. Most DHL Express waybills are 10 digits. You may also see formats used in some regions that include letter prefixes (e.g., JJD01), but the 10-digit waybill is the most common for Express. The same value is often shown as “Waybill,” “AWB,” or “Tracking #.”
Where to find your AWB
- Shipping label: Look near the barcode for fields named Waybill, AWB, or Tracking #. Copy the full number without spaces.
- Confirmation email: Merchants usually include the number in “shipment created” or “order dispatched” emails.
- Drop-off receipt: If you shipped at a ServicePoint, the receipt shows the waybill on the first page.
- Account dashboard: MyDHL+ and many store order pages list the waybill next to the order.
AWB vs other references
- AWB / Waybill: The primary number for DHL Express tracking.
- Reference number: A value set by the sender (e.g., PO or order ID). Sometimes searchable, but not always.
- Local delivery code: In a few countries, the last-mile team may show a local code in addition to the waybill. Track with both if provided.
How to track with a DHL AWB
Track on the DHL website
- Open the official DHL tracking page.
- Paste your 10-digit waybill (remove spaces and dashes).
- Press “Track” to view pickup, transit, clearance, and delivery events.
Track on Ship24
- Go to the Ship24 tracking bar.
- Enter the DHL AWB number and search.
- See Express scans and, when applicable, any handoffs shown by partner carriers on one page.
Multi-piece shipments
DHL Express can ship several pieces under one waybill. The main AWB tracks the shipment as a whole, while each piece may have its ID for internal handling. Piece-level scans roll up to the main waybill, so tracking the AWB is usually enough for status checks.
Common DHL Express statuses linked to an AWB
| Status |
Meaning |
| Shipment picked up |
DHL collected the parcel from the sender. |
| Processed at facility |
Sorting at a DHL hub before the next leg. |
| Departed facility |
Left the hub for the next location. |
| Clearance processing |
Customs review is in progress; documents or duties may be required. |
| Clearance event |
Additional information is needed; follow the link or contact support. |
| With delivery courier |
Out for delivery today. |
| Delivered |
Handed to the recipient or delivered per instructions. |
| Exception |
A delay occurred (address issue, weather, or hold). Watch for the next update. |
Why your AWB might not work (and what to do)
- No first scan yet: The label exists, but the parcel has not been scanned. Try again later the same day.
- Typo or extra characters: Copy the number directly and remove spaces/dashes.
- Wrong service: DHL eCommerce and freight can use different formats; confirm the service on your label or email.
- Expired view: Very old shipments may no longer display. Check your order page for archived links.
- Different carrier: If the parcel was not sent via DHL Express, the AWB will not load on the DHL site. Verify the carrier with the sender.
Next steps: If nothing changes after 24–48 hours, contact the sender to confirm the number and open an inquiry with DHL if needed.
How to send with a DHL AWB
- Get a quote and create a shipment in MyDHL+.
- Print the label and commercial invoice (if required).
- Pack securely; add internal cushioning and seal seams on all sides.
- Schedule a pickup or drop off at a ServicePoint.
- Use the waybill to track until delivery.
Tips for businesses
- Batch tracking: Upload a CSV of waybills to reduce manual checks.
- Event alerts: Send emails for pickup, clearance release, out for delivery, and delivered to cut WISMO tickets.
- Address quality: Validate addresses and include contact details to reduce exceptions.
- Document prep: Share product descriptions and HS codes accurately to speed up clearance.
FAQs
Is an AWB the same as a tracking number?
For DHL Express, yes, the waybill is the primary tracking ID. Some routes may also show a local reference, but the AWB remains the main number.
Can I track without the AWB?
Try the order page from the store or your MyDHL+ account for a link. If you still cannot find it, ask the sender; they can retrieve the waybill from their shipping records.
Do AWB numbers ever change mid-transit?
The waybill normally stays the same from pickup to delivery. If a local carrier shows a second code, track with both for full visibility.
How soon should the first scan appear?
Often on pickup day. During busy periods, the first visible scan may be at the origin hub or airline handoff.
What if my status says “Clearance event”?
Customs needs more information or payment. Follow the link in the tracking detail or contact support to provide documents.
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