Release

In the field of foreign trade, "Release" refers to the act by which goods, documents, or funds, after completing necessary procedures, are permitted by the relevant parties (such as customs, shipping companies, or banks) to proceed to the next stage or be delivered to a designated party. Common scenarios include: customs release (goods allowed to be picked up after customs clearance), shipping company release (issuance of a delivery order or telex release), and bank release (delivery of documents after payment). In practice, note the following: release is usually premised on the completion of specific conditions, such as tax payment, submission of the original bill of lading, or receipt of payment; release does not equal exemption from liability, and accountability may still be pursued if violations are discovered later. Unlike "Customs Clearance," which focuses on the entire customs declaration process, release is one of the final outcomes of customs clearance; unlike "Delivery," release is a prerequisite for delivery, and after goods are released, transportation arrangements may still be required. Foreign trade practitioners should clearly identify the releasing party and the conditions to avoid risks to cargo rights or funds caused by misunderstandings.