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What is an import-export agent and how to become one
An Import-Export Agent is responsible for managing and organizing international shipments and providing clients and companies guidance throughout the processes. It is important for an Agent of this sort to understand current import and export regulations and laws. They also must be able to build business relationships and networks with other agents, with clients, and with representatives of other companies.
They have many duties, such as tracking and coordinating the shipments and reporting on the progress, negotiating on either side of the deal, fixing issues as they come up, dealing with potential clients, compiling various data into reports, and even handling financial transactions.
A person hoping to work as such an agent typically must have a high school diploma or a GED, some experience working in a similar position, and a knowledge of the industry and its regulations. Proficiency in multiple languages and certain software may also be advantageous. On average, an Import-Export Agent earns $21.28 an hour.
Avg. Salary $47,326
Avg. Salary $59,228
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.94%
Asian 14.84%
Black or African American 4.70%
Hispanic or Latino 26.84%
Unknown 7.12%
White 45.56%
Genderfemale 56.11%
male 43.89%
Age - 41.5American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 41.5Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity Level is intermediate
7 - challenging
Work Life balance is poor
6.4 - fair
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Import-Export Agent career paths
Key steps to become an import-export agent
Explore import-export agent education requirements
Start to develop specific import-export agent skills
Skills 
Percentages Customer Service 34.03% Data Entry 11.21% Booking 7.69% Export 2.89% Import Export 2.89% Complete relevant import-export agent training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New import-export agents learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an import-export agent based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real import-export agent resumes.Research import-export agent duties and responsibilities
- Prepare documentation as master BOL, shippers export declarations, cargo release, pickups, delivery orders and others.
- Maintain AS400 system to include accurate shipment order entry, AES filing and other pertinent information for LCL and FCL shipments.
- Facilitate training for CSR & shippers on export documentation and incoterms.
- Send arrival notices, tracking, arranging inland moves on containers and LCL cargo.
Prepare your import-export agent resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your import-export agent resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an import-export agent resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose From 10+ Customizable Import-Export Agent Resume templates
Build a professional Import-Export Agent resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Import-Export Agent resume.
Apply for import-export agent jobs
Now it's time to start searching for an import-export agent job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How Did You Land Your First Import-Export Agent Job
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Average import-export agent salary
The average Import-Export Agent salary in the United States is $47,326 per year or $23 per hour. Import-export agent salaries range between $33,000 and $67,000 per year.
What Am I Worth?
How do import-export agents rate their job?
Import-Export Agent reviews
It give me unforgettable memories and experience In additional generating life time skills and excellence of the knowledge of is involved
It's logical - it makes sense. You go through a whole process for each booking and when it releases/sails you know your job is done.
Mostly sitting, repetitive
Updated January 8, 2025
