How much does a Cargo Agent make?
Becoming a Cargo Agent offers a stable income with room for growth. On average, Cargo Agents earn about $36,952 each year. This varies based on experience and location. Those just starting can expect to make around $27,000. With more years in the job, the salary can go up to $55,200.
The job market for Cargo Agents is growing, with many opportunities to advance. Salary increases often happen with added experience and skills. For example, a Cargo Agent with 10–20 years of experience can earn significantly more than a new hire. Continuous learning and certification can also lead to higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cargo Agent?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $47,852
In Los Angeles, cargo professionals enjoy working in a bustling port city. Major companies like UPS and FedEx offer dynamic roles. Opportunities abound in the thriving shipping and logistics sector.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $47,269
Miami serves as a key hub for international trade. Cargo agents here often work with companies such as Carnival Cruise Line and American Airlines. The vibrant port city offers diverse and exciting career paths.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $46,270
San Francisco presents a unique setting for cargo work, with its significant port activities. Working with major firms like UPS and DHL, professionals here manage vital cargo operations. The city’s tech-driven economy adds an extra layer of opportunity.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $41,435
Boston's historic port offers a rich backdrop for cargo agents. Companies like UPS and DHL provide numerous opportunities. The city's strong economy and business environment add to the appeal of working here.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $39,966
Chicago's central location makes it a prime spot for cargo professionals. Companies such as UPS and FedEx are key employers in this field. The city's extensive rail and road networks provide vast logistical opportunities.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $39,814
Philadelphia offers a dynamic environment for cargo agents, with major companies like UPS and FedEx present. The city’s port plays a crucial role in cargo handling, making it an exciting place to work.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $39,434
Salt Lake City provides a growing market for cargo professionals. The city's logistics sector is expanding, offering roles with companies like UPS and DHL. A rapidly developing business environment enhances job prospects.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $39,415
Honolulu's strategic location in the Pacific makes it vital for cargo operations. Professionals here often work with companies like UPS and FedEx. The island's unique maritime environment offers a distinctive career setting.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $39,060
Anchorage, with its key port, provides significant opportunities for cargo agents. Companies like UPS and FedEx are prominent employers. The city's remote location adds a unique challenge and reward to the job.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $37,674
Portland offers a vibrant market for cargo professionals. The city’s port is a hub for logistics, with companies like UPS and DHL hiring actively. The local economy supports a diverse range of career paths.
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What are the best companies a Cargo Agent can work for?

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Delta Air Lines
Average Salary: $45,507
Delta Air Lines offers rewarding Cargo Agent jobs with competitive pay. Delta operates globally, with major hubs in Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, and Salt Lake City. As a Cargo Agent, you will handle freight and ensure shipments reach destinations safely and on time.
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Everts Air
Average Salary: $40,615
Everts Air provides Cargo Agent positions that focus on cargo operations for airlines and businesses. The company has a strong presence in Anchorage, Alaska, and other key locations. Working here means you will manage and coordinate the transportation of goods, ensuring smooth logistics operations.
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Aloha Air Cargo
Average Salary: $39,966
Aloha Air Cargo offers exciting Cargo Agent roles with opportunities to work in key locations like Honolulu, Hawaii. As a Cargo Agent, you will handle the logistics of shipping, making sure goods are delivered efficiently and on schedule. This role is perfect for those who enjoy working in a dynamic environment.
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G2 Secure Staff
Average Salary: $38,704
G2 Secure Staff has Cargo Agent positions available with a focus on supporting various industries. With locations across the United States, G2 offers a chance to work in diverse environments. As a Cargo Agent, you will ensure that shipments are tracked and managed effectively.
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Trego/Dugan Aviation
Average Salary: $37,214
Trego/Dugan Aviation provides Cargo Agent jobs with a focus on aviation logistics. The company is based in Anchorage, Alaska, and offers opportunities to handle cargo for airlines and businesses. Your job will involve coordinating shipments and ensuring they are delivered correctly and promptly.
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Morgan Auto Group
Average Salary: $36,813
Morgan Auto Group offers Cargo Agent positions that focus on logistics and transportation. With locations across several states, Morgan Auto Group provides a chance to work in a variety of settings. As a Cargo Agent, you will manage shipments and ensure they are processed smoothly.
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Alaska Airlines
Average Salary: $36,380
Alaska Airlines provides Cargo Agent roles with a strong focus on customer service and logistics. With hubs in Seattle, Los Angeles, and other locations, this role involves ensuring that cargo is handled efficiently. You will play a key role in the smooth operation of cargo handling.
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Air General
Average Salary: $36,341
Air General offers Cargo Agent jobs with a focus on aviation logistics. The company operates in several locations across the United States. As a Cargo Agent, you will handle the logistics of air cargo, ensuring that shipments are delivered safely and on time.
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dnata
Average Salary: $36,311
dnata provides Cargo Agent positions with a global reach. With locations in major cities worldwide, this role involves managing and coordinating cargo shipments. As a Cargo Agent, you will ensure that goods are transported efficiently and on schedule.
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Menzies Aviation
Average Salary: $35,757
Menzies Aviation offers Cargo Agent roles with a strong focus on logistics and customer service. With key locations in the United States, Menzies Aviation provides opportunities to work in a dynamic environment. As a Cargo Agent, you will manage shipments and ensure they are processed smoothly.
How to earn more as a Cargo Agent?
Becoming a high-earning Cargo Agent involves more than just handling shipments. It requires a blend of skills, dedication, and strategic career moves. Focusing on these key areas can help an individual in this role increase their earning potential significantly. One of the most effective ways to earn more is by gaining specialized certifications. These certifications can demonstrate a deeper understanding of cargo handling and logistics, which often leads to higher paying positions.
Experience and expertise are also crucial factors. As a Cargo Agent gains more experience, they become more efficient and knowledgeable. This can lead to promotions and higher salaries. Networking plays a big role as well. Building relationships with industry professionals can open up opportunities that may not be advertised. Finally, seeking out roles in high-demand areas or industries can boost earning potential. For example, working in major ports or with top shipping companies often comes with higher pay rates.
Here are five key factors to consider:
- Specialized Certifications: Invest in certifications that enhance your expertise.
- Experience: The more you work, the more you know, and the more you can earn.
- Networking: Connect with others in the industry to discover new opportunities.
- Location: Work in areas where there is a high demand for Cargo Agents.
- Industry Demand: Seek roles in industries that are growing and need skilled professionals.



