Telex Release in maritime transportation: how to receive cargo without the original bill of lading

A Telex Release is a special procedure in the shipping industry that allows cargo to be picked up without presenting the Original Bill of Lading. Originally, the message authorizing the release of cargo was transmitted by telex (hence the name). Now, thanks to modern technology, the authorization is done electronically, but the term “telex release” is still widely used in international logistics.

Key features:

• Relevant for import/export companies wishing to minimize the risks of delays.
• Helps to quickly resolve issues related to the inability to receive original bills of lading in a timely manner.
• Gives additional control to the sender (shipper) and the consignee (consignee) over the transportation process.

How does a telex release work?

1. Return of the original bill of lading or cancelation of the original bill of lading
2. Before requesting a telex release, the shipper must confirm to the carrier that all original bills of lading have been returned or canceled. This eliminates the possibility of double release of the shipment.
3. Request for telex release
4. The shipper requests the shipping line or forwarder to issue a telex release. Documents of payment of freight, fulfillment of financial obligations and other contractual conditions are presented as proof.
5. Notification of the port of destination
6. After verification, the carrier sends a message (formerly by telex, now electronically) to the port of destination or local agent that the cargo can be released without presenting the original bill of lading.
7. Release of cargo
8. The consignee (consignor) at the port of destination presents proof of identity and title to the goods (e.g. copy of bill of lading, commercial invoice, freight bill), but does not have to present the OBL itself.

Advantages of telex release

1. Reduced timeframe

No need to wait for the original bill of lading to be forwarded by courier services - this speeds up the process in cases where the cargo has already arrived at the port of destination.

2. Risk reduction

Problems with lost or delayed paper documents are eliminated. In addition, the risk of fraud is reduced as the originals are either destroyed or returned to the carrier.

3. Simplified logistics

Minimizing paperwork reduces shipping and storage costs. Telex release simplifies communication between sender, carrier and receiver.

4. Control and security

The sender (shipper) can retain the original bill of lading until the required payment is received. Only after the terms of the transaction have been fulfilled does he authorize the telex release.

5. Financial benefit

The cost of the telex release service is often lower than the possible costs of delays or force majeure in the delivery of the original documents (including the risk of penalties for downtime at the port).

Differences from other forms of cargo release

There are different types of documents and procedures for cargo release in the ocean transportation industry. Here is a brief overview of the main ones:

1. Original Bill of Lading (Original Bill of Lading)
   • A traditional document required to be presented at the port.
   • It is transmitted in paper form and has the properties of a security.
2. Express Release
   • Similar to a telex release, but often used when the parties have initially agreed on a full electronic document flow and physical copies of the bill of lading are not issued.
   • The release of the shipment is based on electronic data and proof of identity.
3. Sea Waybill.
   • Not a transferable document (non-negotiable).
   • It is used when no transfer of title to the goods is required through the bill of lading.
   • Release of the shipment also does not require the original bill of lading.

Telex Release is a safe and fast way to release the shipment to the consignee without the paperwork of the original bill of lading. It saves time, reduces the risk of lost documents and ensures the most efficient document flow in international trade. If you would like to discuss in more detail exactly how to implement telex release into your supply chain, contact our logistics experts.

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