Position
Salary

How much does a Cargo Agent make?

The average salary for a Cargo Agent is $36,848 per year in the US.

Cargo agents play a key role in the logistics and shipping industry. These professionals work in various settings, including airports, ports, and shipping companies. They handle the loading, unloading, and storage of cargo. Cargo agents ensure that shipments reach their destinations safely and on time. This job requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

According to recent data, the average yearly salary for a cargo agent is $36,848. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific company. New cargo agents often start at the lower end of the salary range. Those with more experience and skills can earn more. Factors like being in a high-traffic port or working for a major shipping company can also affect salary levels.

Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution for cargo agents:

  • 2.20% earn $27,000 or less
  • 6.94% earn between $27,000 and $29,269
  • 14.39% earn between $29,269 and $31,538
  • 26.59% earn between $31,538 and $33,807
  • 11.35% earn between $33,807 and $36,076
  • 18.63% earn between $36,076 and $38,345
  • 5.25% earn between $38,345 and $40,615
  • 4.40% earn between $40,615 and $42,884
  • 3.56% earn between $42,884 and $45,153
  • 0.68% earn between $45,153 and $47,422
  • 1.02% earn $47,422 or more
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What are the highest paying cities for a Cargo Agent?

Cargo agents can find some of the best pay in Denver, Colorado, where the average salary is around $47,486. Los Angeles, California, offers a close second with an average salary of $47,374. San Francisco, California, also provides a competitive salary of approximately $46,210. These cities provide strong opportunities for cargo agents due to their busy ports and logistics hubs. Working in these areas not only offers higher pay but also valuable experience in a dynamic field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Cargo Agent jobs, highlighting Denver, CO with the highest at $47,486 and Salt Lake City, UT with the lowest at $38,276.
  1. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $47,486
    In Denver, a Cargo Agent ensures the smooth flow of goods through the airport. Working with major airlines and freight companies, the role involves handling logistics and coordinating with ground staff. The Rocky Mountains provide a unique backdrop to this dynamic role.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Denver, CO


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $47,374
    Los Angeles offers a vibrant environment for Cargo Agents. With major ports and airports, professionals handle a high volume of shipments. Companies like UPS and FedEx provide prominent opportunities in this bustling city.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $46,210
    San Francisco is a key hub for cargo operations. Cargo Agents here manage imports and exports efficiently. The city's tech industry adds another layer to the job, requiring attention to detail and coordination.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in San Francisco, CA


  4. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $44,756
    Miami's strategic location makes it a vital spot for Cargo Agents. Professionals here handle a mix of domestic and international shipments. The Port of Miami is one of the busiest in the country, offering dynamic opportunities.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Miami, FL


  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $43,787
    Seattle offers a mix of sea and air cargo operations. Cargo Agents work with companies like Boeing and Amazon. The city’s port is a major gateway for goods, providing a steady flow of work.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $41,435
    Boston is rich in history and commerce. Cargo Agents here manage logistics for both sea and air transport. The city’s historic sites contrast with its modern cargo facilities, creating a unique work setting.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Boston, MA


  7. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $39,428
    Chicago’s central location makes it a major cargo hub. Cargo Agents coordinate with major railroads and freight companies. The city’s diverse industry offers various opportunities in logistics and freight management.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Chicago, IL


  8. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $38,984
    Honolulu provides a laid-back environment for Cargo Agents. The city’s port handles a mix of goods, with many shipments coming from Asia. The tropical climate offers a pleasant contrast to the demanding nature of the job.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Honolulu, HI


  9. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $38,698
    Anchorage is a key point for cargo operations in the Arctic. Professionals here handle goods for both air and sea transport. The city’s unique location provides a challenging but rewarding work environment.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Anchorage, AK


  10. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $38,276
    Salt Lake City offers a growing market for Cargo Agents. The city’s logistics companies and freight services present diverse opportunities. The scenic surroundings provide a refreshing backdrop to the job.
    Find Cargo Agent jobs in Salt Lake City, UT

What are the best companies a Cargo Agent can work for?

Job seekers looking to become cargo agents can find excellent opportunities with Everts Air, which offers an average salary of $40,462. Aloha Air Cargo and G2 Secure Staff also provide competitive pay, with salaries around $40,000. Trego/Dugan Aviation and Air General follow closely, with salaries that reach nearly $37,000. These companies offer strong earning potential for those in the cargo field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Cargo Agent jobs, highlighting Everts Air with the highest at $40,462 and Menzies Aviation with the lowest at $34,500.
  1. Everts Air
    Average Salary: $40,462
    Everts Air offers rewarding Cargo Agent jobs. The company operates in Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska, where agents ensure smooth cargo handling and delivery. Their commitment to safety and efficiency makes it a top choice for job seekers.


  2. Aloha Air Cargo
    Average Salary: $39,833
    Aloha Air Cargo provides exciting Cargo Agent positions. Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, agents here manage cargo operations for flights across the Pacific. Working with Aloha Air Cargo means being part of a dynamic team with a strong focus on customer service.


  3. G2 Secure Staff
    Average Salary: $38,697
    G2 Secure Staff is known for its competitive salaries for Cargo Agents. Operating nationwide, this company offers diverse opportunities for professionals. G2 Secure Staff values teamwork and provides extensive training to its employees.


  4. Trego/Dugan Aviation
    Average Salary: $37,250
    At Trego/Dugan Aviation, Cargo Agents enjoy a stable work environment with good pay. This company is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Here, agents work closely with pilots and ground staff to ensure safe and timely cargo deliveries.


  5. Air General
    Average Salary: $36,797
    Air General provides rewarding Cargo Agent jobs with a competitive average salary. Based in Seattle, Washington, the company focuses on operational excellence. Employees here enjoy a supportive work culture and opportunities for career growth.


  6. Alaska Airlines
    Average Salary: $36,427
    Alaska Airlines offers good compensation for Cargo Agents. With hubs in Seattle and Anchorage, this company is well-known for its family-friendly policies. Employees appreciate the balance between work and personal life.


  7. Morgan Auto Group
    Average Salary: $36,143
    Morgan Auto Group provides solid opportunities for Cargo Agents. Operating in the Midwest, this company values hard work and dedication. Employees benefit from a positive work environment and opportunities for advancement.


  8. dnata
    Average Salary: $36,112
    dnata offers attractive salaries for Cargo Agents. This global company operates in many major airports worldwide. Working at dnata means joining a team that prioritizes safety and efficiency in cargo handling.


  9. Quantem Aviation Services
    Average Salary: $34,781
    Quantem Aviation Services provides good pay for Cargo Agents. Based in the US, this company ensures that agents have the tools and training they need. Employees here enjoy a collaborative atmosphere and opportunities for professional development.


  10. Menzies Aviation
    Average Salary: $34,500
    Menzies Aviation offers rewarding opportunities for Cargo Agents. With operations in key US airports, this company focuses on customer service and operational excellence. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment and growth opportunities.

How to earn more as a Cargo Agent?

To earn more as a Cargo Agent, consider focusing on these key factors. Each one plays a role in boosting your earning potential. By paying attention to these areas, a Cargo Agent can enhance their career and salary.

First, gaining experience is crucial. The more time a Cargo Agent spends in the field, the more skilled they become. Experience allows agents to handle tasks more efficiently and tackle challenges with ease. Employers value this kind of practical knowledge.

  1. Experience: The more time spent in the role, the more skilled the agent becomes.
  2. Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications to stand out in the job market.
  3. Networking: Build relationships with industry professionals to learn about new opportunities.
  4. Advanced Skills: Learn new software and technologies to improve job performance.
  5. Continuous Learning: Keep up with industry trends and best practices.

Next, obtaining relevant certifications can make a Cargo Agent more attractive to employers. Certifications show that the agent has the knowledge and skills needed for the job. They can lead to higher-paying positions and more opportunities for advancement.

Networking also plays an important role. Building relationships with industry professionals can lead to new job opportunities and insights into the industry. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with others online can be very helpful.

Learning advanced skills, such as proficiency in new software or technologies, can improve job performance. This makes a Cargo Agent more valuable to employers. Staying current with the latest tools and techniques shows a commitment to excellence.

Finally, continuous learning is essential. The aviation industry is always changing. Keeping up with new trends and best practices ensures that a Cargo Agent remains competitive. This can lead to higher earnings over time.

Currently 83 Cargo Agent job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Cargo Agent in the US?

Learn what a Cargo Agent does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Cargo Agent today.
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Cargo Agent
83 Job Openings