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Cargo and Freight Agents

Also known as: Freight Forwarder, Shipping Coordinator, Logistics Specialist, Transportation Agent

Office & Administrative+8.5% GrowthHigh School Diploma
$49,900Median Salary
+8.5%Job Growth
Bachelor'sEducation
100,000Employment
8,000Annual Openings

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Your Path to Becoming a Cargo and Freight Agent

Follow this step-by-step pathway to your career as a Cargo and Freight Agent.

YOUR SELECTED CAREER

Cargo and Freight Agents

"Move the world, one shipment at a time!"

Top Skills:
SpeakingActive ListeningReading Comprehension
STEP 1: FOUNDATION

Build Your Foundation

Recommended Courses:
  • Business
  • Mathematics
  • Geography
  • Computer Applications
Target Scores:
SAT 1000ACT 20
Stand Out:
  • Business Club
  • Debate Team
STEP 2: EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

1-2 years$0 - $15KAvg start: $27K
Best Fit Degrees:
  • General Office Occupations and Clerical Services
Also Relevant:
  • Traffic, Customs, and Transportation Clerk/Technician
Top Schools:
  • Bellevue University
  • Iowa State University
STEP 3: TRAINING

On-the-Job Training

1-2 years
Training Type:

On-the-job training

RECOMMENDED CERTIFICATIONS

Certified International Trade Documentation Specialist

Recommended+$2,495 - $7,485/yr with certification

Certified International Trade Documentation Specialist

Issued by: International Trade Certification

20 Certifications Available
MCSCESCTB
WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Lifestyle & Flexibility

Typical Hours:
40 hrs/week
Schedule:
Varies; can include regular business hours, evenings, weekends, and holidays
Flexibility:
Moderate
Remote:
Limited
CAREER OUTCOME

Cargo and Freight Agents

Time to Career:
1-2 years
Total Investment:
$0 - $15K
Median Salary
$49,900
Job Outlook:+8.5%
Current Jobs:0.10M

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What They Do

Cargo and Freight Agents play a professional role in their field. They negotiate and arrange transport of goods with shipping or freight companies, determine method of shipment and prepare bills of lading, invoices, and other shipping documents, track delivery progress of shipments, ensuring quality and excellence in their work. Additionally, they advise clients on transportation and payment methods, contributing to organizational success.

Automation & AI Risk

High Risk99% automation probability

Many routine tasks in this career could be automated by AI or technology. Consider developing complementary skills.

Source: frey_osborne

Key Responsibilities

  • Negotiate and arrange transport of goods with shipping or freight companies
  • Determine method of shipment and prepare bills of lading
  • Other shipping documents
  • Track delivery progress of shipments

Career Pathway

Cargo and freight agents play a vital role in the global economy by coordinating the movement of goods across land, sea, and air. For high school students interested in this field, the journey typically begins with a focus on business, geography, and communication courses. While some entry-level positions are accessible with a high school diploma, most modern employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in fields such as Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or International Business. These programs provide foundational knowledge in transportation laws, global trade regulations, and organizational management.

After completing your degree, you will likely start in roles like logistics coordinator, shipping clerk, or dispatcher. These positions allow you to learn the complexities of manifest documentation and carrier scheduling firsthand. As you gain experience and demonstrate a high level of accuracy and reliability, you can advance into senior roles such as logistics manager, supply chain director, or operations supervisor. Professional growth in this career often involves moving from managing individual shipments to overseeing entire regional or international distribution networks, making it an excellent path for those who enjoy fast-paced environments.

Explore Apprenticeship Opportunities
Earn while you learn — browse registered apprenticeship programs with paid on-the-job training.

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Opportunity for advancement in logistics
  • Relatively low educational barrier to entry
  • Fast-paced and dynamic work environment
  • Essential role in global commerce

Considerations

  • Can be stressful due to deadlines
  • May require working irregular hours
  • Dealing with complex regulations and paperwork
  • Potential for exposure to hazardous materials

Work Environment

Work Settings

Offices, warehouses, shipping docks, transportation terminals

Schedule

May require on-call availability or rotating shifts

Physical Demands

Sitting, standing, walking, lifting boxes, using computer equipment

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