Skip To Content

    Cargo Agent

    A Cargo Agent loading a Boeing 737 with cans from back to front.

    About the Career

    A cargo agent, sometimes called a freight agent, is a professional who arranges the transport of goods with freight companies. 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.

    On the Job You Will

    • Prepare manifests showing numbers of airplane passengers and baggage, mail, and freight weights, transmitting data to destinations.
    • Install straps, braces, and padding to loads to prevent shifting or damage during shipment.
    • Assemble containers and crates used to transport items, such as machines or vehicles.
    • Direct or participate in cargo loading to ensure completeness of load and even distribution of weight.
    • Enter shipping information into a computer by hand or by a hand-held scanner that reads bar codes on goods.
    • Inspect and count items received and check them against invoices or other documents, recording shortages and rejecting damaged goods.

    Details

    • Average Salary: $44,970
    • Salary Range: $31,420 - $67,300
    • Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent
    • Outlook: Excellent (21% or more growth)
    • Total Jobs (2024): 8,710

    Education and Training

    Education

    High school degree or equivalent work experience required.

    Related Experience

    Minimum 2 years’ relevant experience in aviation operations, loadmaster background preferred. 
    Must have valid Driver’s License.

    Airline cargo and ground handling experience is required.
    Airline weight and balance is required.

    Job Training

    Applies understanding of aircraft positions,heights, and weight limitations.
    Adheres to company operating and safety policies, operations, processes and procedures appropriate to the job.
    Understands and uses air freight and flight terminology and processes.

    Employers

    NCTCOG does not endorse or promote programs listed on this website. Content is derived from college/university webpages and is intended to be a collection of available opportunities in the North Texas area. Always conduct due diligence when considering an educational program. Please contact the institution directly for more information.

    Thumbnail of Cargo Agent Video

    Learn more about Life as a Lead Cargo agent with Delta Airlines. 

    Cookies

    We are committed to protecting your privacy and we don’t sell your personal information to anyone. Our refined Privacy Policy addresses collection and use of personal information. Like most websites, this one uses cookies for functional and analytical purposes. To learn more, please read our updated Privacy Policy. Click “OK” to acknowledge the notice of the updated policy.