Freight Broker Agent Training
Freight broker agents can be found in transportation companies managing shipments. A freight broker agent may also be known as cargo and freight agents. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2008 Occupational Employment Statistics, cargo and freight agents earned an average rate of $18.67 per hour and an average salary of $38,830. Job prospects are expected to be good through 2018. Training for this career is typically informal.
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Education
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According to the BLS, a freight broker agent does not need education above a high school diploma. In high school, it helps to do well in English and take computer classes. Should you plan on taking post-secondary courses, consider taking courses in transportation.
On-the-Job Training
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Freight broker agents experience informal on-the-job training, according to the BLS. An agent may have beginner duties, such as double-checking addresses and items to be shipped. According to the Occupational Information Network (O*Net), a freight broker agent may also train in tools and technology, such as desktop computers, hand trucks, laser printers, radio frequency identification (RFID) scanners, and wrapping machinery. A freight broker agent may train in the use of software for tasks such as inventory management, posting, mobile location-based services (including transportation management software or web-based dispatch software), brokerage, spreadsheets and word processing.
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Apprenticeship
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According to the O*Net, one type of recognized apprenticeship is associated with this occupation: a transportation clerk. An apprenticeship usually combines paid on-the-job training with related classroom study.
Other Qualifications
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Employers look for job candidates who know how to use a computer. According to the BLS, clerical skills, such as typing, record keeping and filing are vital. Previous experience in customer service and interpersonal communications is also important.
Advancement
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According to the BLS, agents may advance to team leaders or transfer to other clerical positions within the organization. Some may move to a higher-paying job within the transportation industry, like freight brokering.
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References
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- Photo Credit cargo train image by Julija Sapic from Fotolia.com
