Question

What telex released means?

Answer 1

When a Bill of Lading is issued, there are only two ways the cargo will be released:

• by an endorsed Original Bill of Lading
• with a telex release

A telex release is in essence an electronic message transmitted from an agent or shipping line at the port of loading to the agent at the port of discharge. This message signifies that the shipper has surrendered the original Bill of Lading. For a telex release to be actioned, there are a couple criteria that must be met.

Firstly, an original, physical B/L was issued, printed and subsequently surrendered. Furthermore, the surrendered B/L was originally issued as a Straight B/L. The outcome of a successful telex release situation is the release of cargo to a consignee without the presentation of the endorsed OBL.

In the past, telex releases were transmitted through telegraphic exchange machine, hence the name “TelEx”. These were more difficult to request and obtain. In modern times, shipping liners often provide the possibility of requesting a telex release on their online platforms. Unfortunately, we still haven’t reached the optimal level of convenience, so the task of checking with the issuer of the OBL to confirm the specific process lays on the shipper.