When a ship arrives in a port there is always much that needs to be done. Most importantly, arrangements must be made to load or unload cargo or passengers. In addition, a berth has to be arranged with the local harbourmaster. Any tugs needed must be booked. Payment for these services also needs to be made.

There are official bodies, like customs, port health and immigration authorities who have business with the ship. For instance, medical authorities will want to be sure there are no cases of dangerous diseases on board. Port dues have to be paid. Fuel or other stores need to be bought. Dockers may have to be hired, or special equipment to move unusual pieces of cargo. Money may be needed to pay the crew`s wages. Repairs may be needed and spare parts obtained.

A shipping company will often look after these matters in its own home port. In other ports, they will appoint a ship`s agent to make all these necessary arrangements, because captains of visiting ships may not be familiar with local practices or facilities - in any case they have other things to worry about. Depending how busy the port is, a ship`s agent will probably look after many ships for different owners.

The agent and their staff will be well aware of local facilities and practices. They will have the skills to ensure that the ship is handled and gets on its way as quickly as possible. For, as any shipowner will tell you, only when a ship is at sea carrying cargo is it earning money.

Ships dock or sail at times determined by loading and unloading and by tides. So, like many other port jobs, an agent needs to be on call 24 hours a day.

Shipbrokers

Agents

Chandlers

Shipping lines` staff

Pilots and pilotage