Cargo and Freight Agents

The work

Core tasks

1. 01Negotiate and arrange transport of goods with shipping or freight companies.
2. 02Determine method of shipment and prepare bills of lading, invoices, and other shipping documents.
3. 03Track delivery progress of shipments.
4. 04Advise clients on transportation and payment methods.
5. 05Estimate freight or postal rates and record shipment costs and weights.
6. 06Keep records of all goods shipped, received, and stored.
7. 07Notify consignees, passengers, or customers of freight or baggage arrival and arrange for delivery.
8. 08Retrieve stored items and trace lost shipments as necessary.
9. 09Enter shipping information into a computer by hand or by a hand-held scanner that reads bar codes on goods.
10. 10Prepare manifests showing numbers of airplane passengers and baggage, mail, and freight weights, transmitting data to destinations.
11. 11Arrange insurance coverage for goods.
12. 12Install straps, braces, and padding to loads to prevent shifting or damage during shipment.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading