One of the factors to take into account in the process of importing from China is the document that must be prepared once your cargo has arrived at destination in order to avoid setbacks at customs.
The different options for cargo release are: Bill of Landing (BL), Express bill of lading (or Seawaybill) and Telex Release.
Bill of Lading
A Bill of Lading (BL) is the document received by the shipper for the goods delivered for ocean shipment. This is a receipt produced by the shipping company at origin which evidences the contract of carriage and provides for the rights over the cargo to the holder.
The BL, also called maritime bill of lading, is sent by the shipper after requesting the merchandise clearance service with a set of three originals with their respective copies.
In order for the customer to receive the document, payment must first be made. The value of the BL shipment can be negotiated between both parties. The importer will be the holder of the cargo once this operation is completed.
In this case, it is a printed and stamped document that is sent by express mail to be delivered to the addressee so that he can release his cargo.
It is the most widely used and safest option. It generates costs and lengthens the process.
Express Bill of Lading
It is only suitable for relationships between suppliers and customers who maintain a relationship of trust, or for shippers and consignees who are subsidiaries of the same company.
In this case, it is a digitally executed transaction, so there is no physical BL or document.
Goods can be released as soon as they arrive at port. Eliminates the cost of sending the documentation and the cost of generating the documentation.
Telex Release
Telex Release is the virtual version of the BL and makes it possible to clear the goods without a physical document having been sent.
This does not mean that a Telex Release replaces it, but rather that it is released, i.e. origin and destination agents are informed that the cargo of goods may be released without the requirement to present the original BL.
- Can expedite customs clearance
- It is fast and convenient
- Eliminates the cost of sending documentation
What is the procedure?
- The commercial receipt is paid to the supplier
- Supplier notifies the originating agent that the document has been released
- The shipping line informs the agent at destination that the cargo can be removed without BL
- Consignee withdraws the goods without the original BL
If the request is made in time, the supplier could prepare a physical document stating the release of the Telex Release. However, the important thing is that the receipt is registered in the shipping company’s system.
Mingta Group is an expert in large volume international sourcing from China. For more information and personalized advice, please contact our sales department.
