What is telex release?

A Telex release is the industry term for the release of cargo at one port when the original bill of lading has been surrendered at another. Although this is still referred to as a Telex release, today the release is almost always made by e-mail. Telex release is a normal part of liner shipping.

How does a telex release work?

A telex release allows the carrier’s agent to release the cargo at one port even though the shipper surrendered the original bill of lading at a different port. Some carriers require payment of all fees before the telex release is transmitted to the receiving agent.

How long does it take to get telex release?

It would therefore take a minimum of one and a half days to reach the customer’s hand. There is no way that company B can get the clearance process going before getting all the documents on hand.

What is the difference between telex release and bill of lading?

An original Bill of Lading is a paper bill of lading issued to a customer whereas a Telex Release is an electronic release issued in return for the surrender of an original Bill of Lading.

Can a Telex release be an original bill of lading?

If you’re dealing with the Telex Release, an Original Bill of Lading will still be generated. But presenting a copy of it will be enough to secure the release of your goods. The exporter must send the the Bill of Lading to the importer indicating the choice to use either the Original Bill of Lading or the Telex Release.

How does a Telex release arrangement actually work?

The shipper has to give an expressed instruction to the shipping agent for a telex release arrangement. When all of the original bills of lading have been surrendered at the Port of Loading, and the Original Bill has been endorsed, the Shipping Agent will inform the Destination Port that the Bill of Lading has been released.

What is an OBL, Telex release, and Express release?

It’s typically an email and stamped Telex on the House Bill of Lading (HBL).This type of release tells the origin and destination forwarders that the cargo can be released to the consignee without the original HBL being presented. An Express Release means that the original HBL was never issued or printed.

Are there any risks associated with Telex release?

Although a regular activity within liner shipping, there is nevertheless a risk factor associated with the actioning of telex releases. Another interesting consideration is whether or not the discharge of cargo via telex release is even allowed at the specific port authority.