Freight agents, what to expect and what they do

A freight agent plays a very important role in the logistics, cargo and freighting industry by coordinating the various activities involved in the movement of freight from one place to another. These freight agents can either work for organisations such as freight brokering agencies and freight companies, or they can choose to work freelance. The job of a freight agent requires no special training or qualifications, and so when you are choosing a freight agent, it is important to see that they have requisite experience in the field.

Essentially what a freight agent does is to speed up the movement of cargo, whether it is incoming or outgoing. They deal with various modes of freight such as airfreight, railways, road and sea and they act as a link between the freight forwarder and the customer. Their job includes receiving orders from various customers and ensuring that the cargo is collected and delivered safely. As part of this job, freight agents are required to check documentation and use the official coding system to classify cargo into groups according to the tariff that applies.

Once they have done this, they will then be able to advise their clients on the best mode of transport for their cargo depending on the type of goods and the location it is to be shipped to. They also act as problem solvers when there are issues with the cargo.

Freight agents will also arrange for storage and maintenance of the goods to ensure that they are delivered safely. They will also inspect warehouses and equipment to ensure that the goods are safely packed for transport. Customers will be also able to make arrangements with the freight agent and get them to take care of quality control by sending samples to various inspectors.

Return to Articles page.

---

SJ International Freight Services Limited, UK have head offices in Bristol, UK and Cardiff, South Wales.

Tel: +44 (0)117 932 1160
Fax: +44 (0)117 932 6572
Email: Bob.Feltham@rsj-international.co.uk~
or Steve.Frost@rsj-international.co.uk

Unit 16, Keynsham Road, Willsbridge, Bristol, UK.