Cargo Agents are employed by the transportation industry. Their main responsibilities include ensuring suitable transportation options for each client, meeting documentation requirements, updating knowledge about financial and banking policies, and adding data to computer databases. Based on our collection of resume samples, these employees highlight in their job applications qualifications like logistics experience, excellent networking skills, fast thinking, problem solving orientation, multitasking, and computer competencies. Successful example resumes mention a high school diploma or the equivalent.A cargo agent, sometimes called a cargo and freight agent, is a professional who helps customers during the shipping process. They can work in a variety of work environments, including warehouses, stockrooms and shipping centers.They can also work directly for an airline, water transport center or shipping company. A cargo agent assists clients with their shipping needs. Their duties can vary depending on their industry and work location, but common responsibilities may includeReviewing import and export documentsDiscussing shipping options and prices with clientsOrganizing goods into different shipping categories to assist with payment and feesDetermining the best route for shippingPlanning logistical transportation details with shipping companies and airlinesNegotiating shipping costs with freight company vendorsCommunicating with vendors regarding claims and payment adjustmentsManaging and assisting with cargo loading processesTracing lost packages and communicating details with clientsInspecting items and counting items to compare with the invoice informationEstimating costs for clients, including shipping, postage and additional transport costsCommunicating the shipping status to customersMonitoring shipments to ensure a vendor picks up the cargo or delivers cargoCreating shipping documents, including bills, invoices and reportsTracking shipping details, including cargo contents, weight and transportation timeImportant career skills for cargo agentsTo succeed in their role, cargo agents may use the following skillsOrganizational skillsCargo agents need to organize shipping routes, cost information and data records. They can use strong organizational skills to keep the information accurate.Adaptable thinking When determining the best shipping methods and routes for clients, cargo agents may need to think creatively. They can use adaptable thinking to create shipping plans that meet individual client's needs.CommunicationA cargo agent communicates with clients and other transportation professionals. They can use communication skills to explain shipping costs and procedures, to negotiate costs and to network with new clients or partners.Negotiation Some cargo agents may negotiate prices with shipping centers.Customer serviceCargo agents often work directly with customers. They may need to explain concepts, answer questions and resolve conflicts.Problem-solving When shipping schedules or prices change, a cargo agent can use problem-solving skills to find creative solutions.Computer skillsMany cargo agents use software or computer programs to assist with the shipping process. This may involve inputting shipping data, updating invoices or printing shipping materials.Technical knowledge Cargo agents need to be experts on transportation services. They may specialize in one area, such as air transportation or railroads, or they can work with multiple transportation options. They need to understand average shipping times, routes and costs to help their clients.