The e-waybill refers to the electronic shipment document used for exchanging regulatory information related to freight transport and logistics among economic operators and competent authorities. It is a confirmation of existing “Transport Agreement” between cargo owner and carrier and can be in format of eCMR, eAWB, eB/L or eCIM/eSMGS, depending of the transport modes.

The e-waybill, as part of the eFTI framework, contains a set of electronic data elements that are processed and exchanged electronically. It serves as a digital record of information regarding the movement of goods, such as details about the consignor, consignee, transportation mode, goods description, and other relevant information. The e-waybill enables efficient and streamlined information exchange, enhancing the transparency and traceability of freight transport operations.

The specific requirements and implementation of the e-waybill under the eFTI regulation may vary among different jurisdictions and regions. It is important to consult the relevant regulatory authorities or official documentation in your specific jurisdiction to understand the detailed provisions and processes related to e-waybill issuance and usage.

The main reason for the lack of transparency and inefficiency of the supply chain is the fact that the majority of goods are linked to paper transport documents required by the competent authorities of the countries. Legally, a waybill (officially a consignment note) is a proof of the existence of a transport contract, which gives the carrier the right to carry out the transport and determines the responsibility for the preservation of the cargo.

Therefore, it is data that can be used to connect the cargo orderer, the carrier, the recipient of the goods, as well as the national competent authorities that have the right to supervise the transportation process (customs, police, environmental agency, etc.). However, the truck itself, its driver, cargo transferors and receivers, as well as monitoring actions via the eFTI network, are related to cargo events.

Thus, it can be argued that waybill digitization is the last missing link in supply chain digitization and lays the foundation for creating a completely paperless and real-world managed logistics process.