Cargo and Freight Agents

Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed

Expedite and route movement of incoming and outgoing cargo and freight shipments in airline, train, and trucking terminals and shipping docks. Take orders from customers and arrange pickup of freight and cargo for delivery to loading platform. Prepare and examine bills of lading to determine shipping charges and tariffs.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $52,260/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$38,340$79,810

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +8.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.

About 8,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

SpeakingActive ListeningReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingTime ManagementNegotiationCoordinationMonitoringWritingSocial Perceptiveness

Top knowledge areas

TransportationGeographyPublic Safety and SecurityEnglish LanguageAdministration and ManagementEducation and TrainingLaw and GovernmentTelecommunications

Core tasks

• 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.

• Advise clients on transportation and payment methods.

• Estimate freight or postal rates and record shipment costs and weights.

• Keep records of all goods shipped, received, and stored.

• Notify consignees, passengers, or customers of freight or baggage arrival and arrange for delivery.

• Retrieve stored items and trace lost shipments as necessary.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Cargo and Freight Agents?

The median pay for Cargo and Freight Agents is $52,260 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Cargo and Freight Agents?

Employment for Cargo and Freight Agents is projected to change +8.5% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.

What education is typically required for Cargo and Freight Agents?

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

How many job openings are there each year for Cargo and Freight Agents?

About 8,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.