Telex Release

What is a telex release?

A telex release is typically an email sent from Flexport's partner at the port of origin to the destination port. The email allows Flexport to release your cargo without presentation of the hard-copy Original Bill of Lading (OBL).

It's quite a bit faster and less complicated than requiring that the paper OBL be sent by courier to the arrival agent, which can delay delivery of your freight upon arrival.

When do I need a telex release?

Whenever an original bill of lading is issued for your shipment and your supplier holds the hard-copy forms. This typically happens when your supplier requires payment for the goods before releasing the OBL to you.

In this case, we recommend requesting a telex release from the supplier. With this course of action, your supplier will surrender the OBL to the partner at origin, instructing them to issue the telex release. This transfers ownership of the cargo to the consignee, allowing Flexport to release the goods without presentation of the physical document.

How can I simplify this process?

If you negotiate with your supplier to ship cargo under an Express Bill of Lading (also known as a Seaway Bill), it greatly simplifies the process. No telex release is required, because no original bill of lading is issued. An express bill of lading is frequently used if the importer paid for the goods before shipping, or if the shipper has credit with the supplier. Express Bills are not document of title to the goods; transfer of title should be documented elsewhere in the sales contract.

What does "telex" mean?

It's a legacy term, dating back to a time when telex releases involved the use of teletype machines. Today, electronic release happens via e-mail or fax, but the term telex release is often still used.

Who provides Flexport with the telex release?

Legally, the partner at the origin port must provide Flexport with the telex release. Flexport can not accept a copy of the document from the consignee.

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