Documents
Telex release (surrendered B/L)
Release of cargo at destination without paper originals, after the original bills of lading are surrendered to the carrier at origin.
In four languages
With a telex release the original bills of lading are issued but handed back to the carrier or forwarder at origin. The origin office then sends an electronic message to the destination office to release the cargo without originals, and the B/L copy is stamped surrendered or telex released. It is very common on China to Gulf trade because it avoids couriering paper and the delays that lost or late originals cause. Typically the supplier surrenders the B/L once the buyer has paid the balance. Example: a Sohar importer pays its Guangzhou supplier the 70% balance after seeing the B/L copy. The supplier surrenders the originals at the forwarder's Guangzhou office, the release is confirmed to Oman, and the importer collects the delivery order by showing authority and paying local charges.
Questions
Is a telex release the same as a sea waybill?
No. A telex release starts as an original B/L that is surrendered at origin, while a sea waybill is never a document of title in the first place. Both let the consignee collect without paper originals.
Is it normal that my supplier only telex releases after full payment?
Yes. Paying the balance against a B/L copy, then receiving the telex release, is the usual practice with Chinese suppliers.