FAQ
Cargo Agent FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a cargo agent.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a cargo agent: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about cargo agents
Do I need a degree?
No.
Is the job growing?
Yes, BLS projects faster than average growth.
Is hazmat training required?
For handling dangerous goods, yes.
How much does a cargo agent make?
The median annual wage for cargo agents was $52,260 ($25.13 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $38,340 and the highest 10% earned more than $79,810.
How long does it take to become a cargo agent?
Most people need about A few weeks of training of training. A high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a cargo agent?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is cargo agent a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +6.2% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 9,000 openings each year. Upsides include faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that deadline pressure.
What skills does a cargo agent need?
Key technical skills include shipping documents, freight booking, hazmat rules, and weights and dimensions. Employers also value attention to detail, communication, and organization.
What certifications are available for cargo agents?
Common credentials include IATA Dangerous Goods, DOT hazmat training, Certified Customs Specialist, and TSA cargo security training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Cargo Agent fit quiz, compare with Logistics Coordinator, or explore Cargo Agent training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-5011 (Cargo and freight agents).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Cargo and freight agents (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.