Cargo and Freight Agent

Your Fit

Income

$44K

Preparation

Some

Growth

9.7%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Cargo and Freight Agent?

A Cargo and Freight Agent coordinates and facilitates the shipment of goods through airlines, trains, and shipping docks. They play a pivotal role in ensuring that cargo is transported efficiently, safely, and in compliance with various regulations.

Sample job titles:

Air Export Specialist, Drop Shipment Clerk, Logistics Coordinator, Logistics Service Representative

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Cargo and Freight Agent.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Cargo and Freight Agent earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Cargo and Freight Agent.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$32K per year	$36K per year	$44K per year	$54K per year	$62K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $21K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Cargo and Freight Agent do?

Work environment

Cargo and Freight Agents typically work in warehouses, airports, seaports, or rail yards. Their work environment can be fast-paced, requiring coordination between various parties such as shipping companies, carriers, and clients. The role may involve working irregular hours, including nights and weekends, especially in operations that run 24/7.

Quick task list

Coordinates the transportation and movement of cargo.
Prepares and processes documentation for shipping, including bills of lading and invoices.
Tracks shipments and updates customers on status.
Ensures compliance with customs, insurance, and safety regulations.
Resolves issues that arise during the shipping process.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Air Freight Agent: Specializing in the shipment of goods via airplanes.
Sea Freight Agent: Managing cargo transportation through maritime vessels.
Rail Freight Agent: Coordinating shipments via trains.
Customs Brokerage Agent: Focusing on compliance with customs regulations.
Logistics Agent: Providing broader logistics services, including cargo consolidation and warehousing.

Description

Cargo and Freight Agents are essential in the global supply chain, managing the logistics of transporting goods from one place to another. Their role requires a good understanding of transportation modes and routes, as well as the regulations governing the shipment of various types of cargo. They must be adept at coordinating multiple tasks and ensuring that all aspects of shipping, from documentation to delivery, are handled efficiently.

Strong organizational and communication skills are crucial, as agents interact with various stakeholders, including shipping companies, carriers, and customers. They also need to be problem-solvers, capable of addressing unexpected challenges such as delays, damages, or documentation issues. Familiarity with shipping and logistics software is increasingly important in this role, as technology plays a significant part in tracking and managing shipments.

This career can be dynamic and rewarding, offering opportunities to play a critical role in the movement of goods across the globe. It suits individuals who enjoy logistics, are detail-oriented, and thrive in fast-paced environments.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being a key player in the global logistics and supply chain network.
The challenge and fulfillment of successfully managing complex shipping operations.
Opportunities for career growth in various sectors of transportation and logistics.

You might make a good Cargo and Freight Agent if you are...

Detail-oriented, with a knack for coordinating complex processes.
A strong communicator, adept at negotiating and resolving issues.
Interested in logistics, transportation, and international trade.
Capable of working under pressure and adapting to dynamic situations.
Comfortable with technology and logistics software.

Pros:

Involvement in a critical and dynamic sector of the global economy.
Diverse work environment with varied tasks.
Potential for career growth and advancement in logistics and supply chain management.

Cons:

The role can involve high-pressure situations, particularly when dealing with shipment delays or logistical challenges.
Irregular hours, including nights and weekends, are common, especially in operations that function round-the-clock.
The job can be physically demanding, especially when working in warehouses or loading docks.

How to become a Cargo and Freight Agent

Typical education

Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some agents may benefit from vocational training or an associate degree in logistics, transportation, or a related field, but practical experience is often emphasized in this industry.

High school preparation

Courses:

Geography to understand global trade routes and logistics.
Mathematics for skills in logistics planning and cost calculation.
Business Studies to gain basic knowledge of commerce and trade.
Computer Science to develop proficiency with technology and logistics software.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining logistics or business clubs to gain insights into the industry.
Participating in team sports or activities that require coordination and strategic planning.
Volunteering for tasks that involve organization and planning, such as community events.

Preparation after high school

Consider vocational training or an associate degree in logistics, supply chain management, or transportation.
Seek internships or entry-level positions in logistics companies, shipping agencies, or warehouses to gain practical experience.
Attend workshops or seminars related to transportation regulations, international trade, and logistics software.

More resources

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) - Provides networking and education opportunities in supply chain management.
International Air Transport Association (IATA) - Offers information and courses on air cargo and freight logistics.
National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) - A resource for customs brokerage and freight forwarding professionals.
American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) - Provides information on maritime and port logistics.

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