What Is Telex Release? How It Works, When to Use It, and Why It Matters

When you’re managing global shipments by ocean, delays in document handling can hold up cargo release – and that means missed deadlines, unhappy customers, and added costs. One common workaround is the Telex Release, a faster and more flexible way to get cargo released at the destination.

In this post, we’ll discuss how a Telex Release works, how it compares to traditional methods, and when it’s the right move for your supply chain.

What Is a Telex Release?

A Telex Release allows the consignee to receive cargo at the destination without presenting the original bill of lading (B/L).
Here’s how it works:

• The shipper surrenders the original B/L to the carrier or freight forwarder at the origin.
• The origin office then sends a digital message (the “Telex Release”) to the destination office authorizing the cargo release.
• The consignee collects the goods without the need for physical paperwork.

This method is particularly helpful for high-volume shippers working with trusted buyers, especially when speed and simplicity matter.

Telex Release vs. Original Bill of Lading

To understand the differences between Telex Release and original B/L, it helps to know the three core functions of a traditional B/L:

1. Evidence of the Contract of Carriage – It confirms the terms agreed between shipper and carrier.
2. Receipt of the Goods – It acknowledges that the carrier has received the cargo in good condition.
3. Document of Title – This gives legal ownership of the cargo to the holder of the original B/L, which can be transferred or negotiated.

With a Telex Release, the third function – Document of Title – is waived. The original B/L is surrendered at origin, and the release at destination is granted via electronic message, allowing the consignee to collect the goods without presenting a physical document. This trade-off allows for faster handling but offers less control over payment security.

Depending on your shipment and trade relationship, you may choose between different types of B/Ls. Express Release is another option used in certain high-trust situations, but for most commercial shipments, the key decision is between a Telex Release and an original B/L.

Here’s a side-by-side view:

Express Release, for reference, uses a sea waybill – a non-negotiable document that serves as both a receipt and a contract of carriage. Unlike a traditional B/L, it is not a document of title and does not require physical presentation for cargo release. This makes it ideal for high-trust scenarios where speed and simplicity are priorities between the shipper and consignee.

When Telex Release Makes a Difference

Telex Release is especially valuable when speed matters and when the traditional original B/L process causes unnecessary delays or costs.

Here are some scenarios where Telex Release can significantly improve operations:

1. Short-Haul Ocean Freight: On intra-Asia lanes like China to Vietnam or Singapore to Indonesia (three to five days transit), cargo often arrives before the original B/L. In these cases, the consignee may be stuck waiting for documents while the shipment sits at port. Telex Release enables immediate pickup without paperwork delays, helping to keep goods moving on time.
2. High-Frequency Trade Lanes: Shippers with regular, predictable volumes often have trusted relationships with their consignees. For these shipments, there’s little value in using original B/Ls. Telex Release streamlines the process and reduces administrative friction.
3. Avoiding Document Loss or Delay: Physical documents can be lost, delayed in customs, or mishandled by couriers. Telex Release eliminates this risk entirely by keeping the process digital and centralized.
4. Tight Storage Windows at Destination: If cargo isn’t picked up quickly after arrival, demurrage and storage fees can add up fast. Telex Release helps avoid these costs by ensuring the consignee can retrieve the cargo as soon as it’s available.
5. Reduced Administrative Work: Managing physical documents adds workload for internal logistics, finance, and compliance teams. Without the need to manage, track, and deliver physical B/Ls, shippers reduce the burden on internal teams and lower their document-handling costs.

In fast-moving global supply chains, these advantages can translate to real-time savings, better customer satisfaction, and fewer operational headaches.

Risks and What to Watch Out For

A Telex Release offers convenience, but it also comes with trade-offs.

Less Control Over Payment Timing – Once the Telex Release is sent, the consignee can collect cargo. If payment hasn’t been secured, the shipper may lose leverage.

Potential for Fraud – Since release is done via electronic message, there’s a risk of fraudulent instructions if proper checks aren’t in place.

Instruction Clarity Is Critical – If the freight forwarder doesn’t receive clear instructions, they may release the cargo too early.

How Dimerco Handles Telex Release Safely

At Dimerco, we use a centralized, cloud-based operating system across all offices. This ensures consistent processes and double-verification for every Telex Release.

• Layered security is built into our documentation workflow.
• Named bills of lading are required with Telex Releases to clearly specify the consignee and prevent unauthorized pickup.
• Our teams are trained to always confirm instructions – we won’t release cargo unless it aligns with your exact request.

Frequently Asked Question: Can I Delay a Telex Release After Payment?

Yes. One of the most common questions Dimerco Vietnam receives is whether a shipper can pay first but hold the Telex Release until giving the go-ahead. The answer is yes – as long as the instructions are clear. This setup helps protect the shipper while still allowing fast release once the buyer pays.

Dimerco acts according to the shipper’s instructions. We don’t cut corners. If a Telex Release is requested, we verify the documentation and execute only when everything checks out.

When to Stick With Original B/L

In certain cases, the traditional original B/L is still the better option:

• New or untrusted trade relationships
• Shipments tied to letters of credit
• Transactions in emerging markets where fraud risk is higher

Original B/Ls offer greater control and are often required when payment security is a top priority.

Choosing the Right Logistics Partner

If you’re considering Telex Release, your freight partner matters. Look for a provider that:

• Follows instructions exactly
• Prioritizes secure cargo handling
• Confirms release details before taking action

Dimerco brings together the consistency of a global provider with the flexibility and attention of a regional partner. We help you manage document release with speed, precision, and peace of mind.

Need help deciding between Telex Release or original B/L for your next shipment? Talk to Dimerco. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons – and support whatever release method best fits your business.