What is the difference between AWB Number, Reference Number and Order ID?

AWB Number (Air Waybill Number / Tracking Number):

This is the tracking number generated by the courier partner once an order is successfully created in their system. It is used to track the shipment's journey from dispatch to final delivery.

An AWB (Air Waybill) number is typically a unique identifier at the carrier level. While it is rare, it is technically possible for two different courier partners to generate the same AWB number, as uniqueness is maintained only within each carrier’s system.

Reference Number:

This is a unique identifier within the ClickPost system, generated and included in the Order Creation payload by the brand or the integrated channel. The reference number must be unique, as ClickPost uses it to log and track each order creation request accurately.

Order ID:

This is typically the identifier generated by the brand’s system for an order. An Order ID can be common and tied to multiple AWBs and reference numbers.

Key Differences:

• A single Order ID can be linked to multiple Reference Numbers and AWBs.

• A Reference Number is always linked to a single AWB.

• AWB Number is assigned by the courier, while the brand or integrated channel generates the Reference Number and Order ID.