Understanding the Differences Between Surrendered B/L, Telex Release, and Express Release

QUESTION

Good afternoon, Sir.

Could you please explain the differences between a Surrendered Bill of Lading, a Telex Release, and an Express Release?

Regards,

Priya

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ANSWER

Hi Priya,

Thanks for your thoughtful question. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to distinct practices in maritime logistics. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Surrendered Bill of Lading

A Surrendered Bill of Lading is an original B/L that has been issued and then surrendered by the shipper at the Port of Loading. By doing so, the shipper instructs the shipping line or freight forwarder to release the goods at the Port of Discharge without requiring presentation of the original bill of lading by the consignee.

Once surrendered:

• The shipping line stamps “SURRENDERED” (usually in red ink) on the original B/L.
• The document is scanned, and a copy is handed back to the shipper (exporter).
• A Telex Release is then issued to the shipping line’s agent at the discharge port, authorizing cargo release without any need for original documents.

This method is only applicable to Straight Bills of Lading (i.e., issued to a named consignee and non-negotiable).

Note: While this practice has been used for decades, the ICC only officially addressed it in 2025 in Draft Opinion TA949, in response to an LC case requiring “One copy of surrendered B/L” alongside a full set of originals.

2. Telex Release

A Telex Release is the communication—originally sent via telex, but now typically via email or fax—that informs the agent at the Port of Discharge that the shipper has surrendered the original B/L at origin. The instruction allows the consignee to collect the cargo without presenting any original B/Ls.

Despite technological changes, the term “Telex Release” persists from its early days.

3. Express Release

An Express Release is used in situations where no original B/L is ever issued. Instead, a Seaway Bill or Waybill is used to facilitate quicker, simpler cargo release. Common scenarios include:

• Transactions between related companies (e.g., parent and subsidiary).
• Shipments that do not involve banks or LCs, with no need for documentary control.
• Freight forwarders issuing a House B/L and preferring simplified release procedures.

4. Key Differences: Telex Release vs. Express Release

• A Telex Release is issued when the original bills of lading have been printed, issued, and then surrendered by the shipper at the port of loading. The shipping line sends a communication (now via email or fax) to their agent at the port of discharge, instructing them to release the cargo without presentation of any original B/L.
• An Express Release, on the other hand, is used when no original bill of lading is issued at all. Instead, the shipment is handled under a Seaway Bill or Waybill, which allows the consignee to collect the cargo without needing any original documents.
• Therefore, while both allow for release of goods without presenting original B/Ls, the key difference lies in the existence and surrender of original documents:
  • Telex Release: Original B/Ls were issued and later surrendered.
  • Express Release: No original B/Ls were issued from the beginning.

Best regards,

Mr. Old Man