Providing full agency, husbandry and protective agency services in 2,100 port locations means you can always have a Starmarine Port Services ships agent taking care of your interests, wherever in the world it is you do business.
Matching real time, on the ground, local knowledge and expertise with our strict operational standards, whether it is your vessel, crew, cargo, or cash we’re looking after, our agents can be relied on to consistently make your port calls as efficient as possible.
Responsibilities of a Shipping Agent
- Procure required documents from the relevant authorities
- Ensure taxes and duties are paid and discharged
- Attend to the needs of the crew onboard
- Arrange for repair works and husbandry of the ship
- Negotiate favorable rates for importers, exporters and the shipping line
What makes a good shipping agent
Adaptability
A good shipping agent must be able to adapt to the ever-changing nature of this phase of the shipping process. An excellent agent may switch from carrying out a well-thought-out operation to doing something utterly unexpected.
Analytical
Being an excellent ship's agent requires the ability to document actions properly. Because the agent is the "go-to" person for any circumstance, they are always dealing with correct paperwork procedures, from immigration to port authorities to procuring crew food.
People skills
It is critical that shipping agents have strong interpersonal skills and like interacting with individuals from other cultures. Throughout their careers, these agents contact people of many ethnicities.
Passion for maritime
Finally, a competent agent should be enthusiastic about the marine sector. Understanding that a vessel agent is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week is an important part of the job. While working as a shipping agent is not your standard "9 to 5" job and can be demanding at times, it can also be quite rewarding.