Express Bill of Lading vs. Telex Release
International trade is an alluring business prospect, as it expands your horizons and unlocks growth opportunities. Breaking into new markets means a broader customer base and global recognition for your business.
The US is second on the list of global exporters, behind only China. According to 2022 statistics, exports totaled $2.1 trillion, up an impressive 17.5% from 2021. Seeing these numbers, you will surely want to join the international trade bandwagon sooner rather than later. However, before diving in, you need to understand the challenges of exporting goods, including preparing the correct paperwork, which can be overwhelming.
Express Bill of Lading and Telex Release are two crucial documents that play a pivotal role in the shipping process. Both facilitate the smooth transportation of goods, so from the outside, they seem quite similar. However, there are a few differences between them, and one may be more suitable than the other due to the nature of the goods being transported or the relationship with the consignee.
In this article, we will explain both documents and help you decide how to pick the best one for your business.
What is an Express Bill of Lading?
A Bill of Lading is a legal document acknowledging the receipt of goods and stating the details of the shipment. It outlines the particulars of the cargo, from the buyer to container number, description of goods, and ports of origin and destination. A carrier (shipping line or freight forwarder) issues this document, and it is sent from the exporter to the importer so that they can collect the goods.
An Express Bill of Lading is an electronic copy of this form that expedites the documentation process. Without the express version, you need to mail the original documents to the buyer to present at the time of collection. Using this electronic copy instead facilitates quicker and more efficient cargo handling.
Key Advantages
- Faster document processing with the electronic version reduces delays associated with traditional paperwork.
- Increased security and digital encryption, requiring multiple identity verification measures before the signer accesses and signs the document, make it less susceptible to unauthorized alterations and fraud. It functions as legal proof of the ownership of the consignment, binding the carriers to deliver the goods to the correct recipient.
- Real-time tracking and visibility of the shipment provide stakeholders with timely updates regarding the cargo.
Suitability of Express Bill of Lading
Up-to-date and compliant documentation is crucial for the secure, efficient and legal shipping of goods. An Express Bill of Lading can be a game-changer for businesses transporting time-sensitive shipments, where a quick turnaround is critical. For example, industries such as perishables, fashion, and electronics can benefit from the expedited processing with this document.
With the perishable goods transportation market projected to grow at a rate of 7.75% between 2022 and 2027, many participants will need to use this form of documentation for their international shipping.
In addition, an Express Bill of Lading is often used for consignments to new shipping partners because it provides a higher level of security than a Telex Release.
Potential Limitations
- Express Bills of Lading may carry a higher price tag compared to traditional options due to the expedited services they guarantee.
- Some shipping lines and ports may not accept or support this version, limiting their applicability in some trade routes. These include Brazil, Algeria, and Bulgaria.
What is a Telex Release?
A Telex Release is an electronic message the shipping line sends to the destination agent. It instructs them to release the cargo to the consignee without a physical Bill of Lading. It is applicable even when the original Bill of Lading is at a different port, in transit, or lost.
This e-document primarily focuses on the destination port’s cargo release process, and confirms that freight and all other charges related to the shipment have been duly paid at the port of loading. The release includes details such as the name and address of the consignee, the container number, and a description of the goods. Like the Express Bill of Lading, Telex Release is a digital alternative to the traditional release process.
Key Advantages
- Since a Telex Release eliminates the need for physical documentation and removes all reliance on an original Bill of Lading, it reduces the cost and time of courier services and manual handling.
- Being a digital document, it facilitates easy transmission and receipt of release instructions, making the cargo release procedures more flexible.
Suitability of Telex Release
A Telex Release is apt for shipping transactions involving experienced and trusted parties, because it is only an email rather than a contract. You will feel far more confident about using it with parties you already know.
In addition, it is used in routine shipments where efficiency and timely delivery are crucial.
Potential Limitations
- Security is a significant concern because the reliance on electronic communication makes Telex Releases prone to email fraud. This may lead to the cargo being incorrectly released.
- Like Express Bills of Lading, not all carriers and destinations may accept Telex Releases, restricting them for certain trade routes. Brazil is an example of a country that does not permit the release of cargo with a Telex Release.
- The Telex Release is relatively slower than the Express Bill of Lading, so it may not be apt for perishable goods and time-sensitive shipments.
Understanding the Differences between Express Bills of Lading & Telex Release
Express Bills of Lading and Telex Releases essentially serve the same purpose of simplifying and expediting the cargo release process. However, their form and implementation differ.
While Express Bills of Lading entail streamlining the traditional document workflow, Telex Releases eliminate the need for physical documents by completely switching to electronic communication. You should consider the needs and expectations of your business to pick between the two.
Factors Influencing the Choice
You may still have some qualms regarding deciding between the Express Bill of Lading and Telex Release. We will simplify the choice by highlighting some factors you should consider.
These include:
Nature of Goods
The type of goods being shipped is the first thing to bear in mind. Evaluate the urgency of the consignment by considering the nature of the items. For example, an Express Bill of Lading is better for perishable products sensitive to delays. When timing is less critical, you can opt for a Telex Release.
Trade Routes
While international shipping demands stringent documentation, the requirements and acceptance of documents may vary across different trade routes. Check the specifics of your trade route to decide on the document and avoid complications during the shipping process.
Relationship with Partners
Another key factor influencing the choice is the level of trust and familiarity with your trading partners. Businesses with more established relationships often favor Telex Releases. New ones are more likely to opt for an Express Bill of Lading.
Streamlining Shipping Documentation with Digital Solutions
In conclusion, electronic documentation can make international shipping a breeze by expediting the process and reducing the paperwork. However, choosing the right digital version is critical to ensure smooth sailing.
In this guide, we have highlighted the differences between an Express Bill of Lading and a Telex Release. We hope this information will help you decide which of these documents is suitable for your business and consignment.
