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NEWS & BLOG

SWB vs Telex Release: How to Choose the Right Ocean Cargo Release Method

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2025-05-07      Origin: Site

Key Differences at a Glance

FeatureSea Waybill (SWB)Telex Release
Legal NatureNon-negotiable transport documentElectronic release authorization
Ownership TransferImpossible (fixed consignee)Requires original B/L surrender
Release SpeedImmediate upon arrival1-2 business days after request
Security LevelMedium (pre-set consignee)High (carrier verification)
Best ForTrusted partners/rush shipmentsDelayed document scenarios

When to Use Each Method

? Sea Waybill (SWB) Ideal For:

  1. Established trade relationships

    • Example: OEM supplier shipping to long-term manufacturer

  2. Time-sensitive deliveries

    • Saves 5-7 days vs waiting for original B/L

  3. Intra-company transfers

    • Parent-to-subsidiary shipments

?? SWB Risks:

  • No cargo control after shipment

  • Limited dispute resolution (no document leverage)


? Telex Release Ideal For:

  1. Document delays

    • B/L stuck in banking/payment processes

  2. Multi-party transactions

    • Allows final consignee changes pre-arrival

  3. High-value goods

    • Carrier confirms identity before release

?? Telex Release Risks:

  • Fraud potential if email hacked

  • Some ports require 48h notice (e.g., Lagos)


Step-by-Step Process Comparison

SWB Workflow:

  1. Shipper issues SWB naming fixed consignee

  2. Carrier delivers to named party upon arrival

  3. Consignee claims with ID (no document needed)

Telex Release Workflow:

  1. Shipper submits B/L surrender request to carrier

  2. Carrier verifies and emails release to destination agent

  3. Consignee presents ID + release confirmation


Cost & Time Savings

MetricSWBTelex Release
Document Handling$0 (no B/L)$50-100 fee
Release Time0 days1-2 days
Bank ProcessingNot applicableLC complications

Pro Tip:
"Use SWB for routine shipments with trusted buyers, but insist on Telex Release when letters of credit are involved¡ªit maintains document control until payment."
¡ª Maersk Trade Finance Specialist


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