How much does a freight agent make?

In the United States, freight agents with more experience, useful certificates, or harder, more responsible duties may earn more. Pay also varies by employer industry and location; hours and overtime or shift premiums can change total pay.

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.

What's a typical day like?

They check orders, choose carriers and routes, record weights and costs, and prepare shipping papers. Then they track loads, update customers, and coordinate loading at a terminal or shipping dock.

A high school diploma or GED is the usual entry point, and related work experience is not typically required; BLS lists short-term on-the-job training. You can learn in an entry-level job or choose a registered apprenticeship with 2,000–4,000 hours of on-the-job training.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like keeping things organized and leading and selling.

A freight agent’s manifest can list not just cargo, but also airplane passengers, baggage, and mail—and their weights.