Cargo-IMP
Cargo-IMP is the legacy IATA EDI standard for exchanging air cargo information between airlines, freight forwarders, ground handlers, and customs authorities. It uses fixed-format text messages with type codes like FWB (Master AWB data), FHL (House AWB list), FFM (flight manifest), FSU (status update).
IATA is migrating the industry to Cargo-XML, a modern XML-based equivalent that supports richer data and aligns with WCO data models. Many air cargo systems still send/receive Cargo-IMP for backwards compatibility while adding Cargo-XML support.
Cargo-IMP is the messaging that moves an air shipment's data between airlines, forwarders, handlers and customs — the air-cargo counterpart to EDIFACT's ocean messages. It is legacy (being replaced by the XML-based Cargo-XML) but still everywhere, so air systems must speak both during the transition.
What is Cargo-XML?
IATA's modern XML-based replacement for Cargo-IMP, supporting richer data and aligned with WCO data models. The industry is migrating from Cargo-IMP to Cargo-XML.
What are FWB and FFM messages?
Cargo-IMP message types: FWB carries Master Air Waybill data, FHL the House AWB list, FFM the flight manifest and FSU a status update.