Maritime glossary

Port agent (ship agent)

The local representative who arranges a vessel needs during a port call.

A port agent, or ship agent, is the local representative who arranges everything a vessel needs during a port call on behalf of the shipowner or operator. The agent is the ship point of contact ashore, coordinating berthing, clearance, supplies, crew matters and paperwork.

What a port agent does

A port agent books the berth, handles customs and immigration clearance, arranges pilots and tugs, coordinates cargo operations, and organises supplies such as provisions, stores, spares and fuel. They pay local costs on the owner behalf and account for them afterwards in a disbursement account.

Port agents and suppliers

Chandlers and other suppliers often coordinate deliveries through the port agent, who knows the vessel schedule and access. A good working relationship with agents helps a supplier time deliveries to the port call and reach the right people on board.

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Related terms

Disbursement account Agency fee ETA window Proforma invoice Bunkering All glossary terms →

Frequently asked questions

What is a port agent?
A port agent, or ship agent, is the local representative who arranges a vessel needs during a port call on behalf of the owner or operator, from berthing and clearance to supplies and crew.
What does a ship agent do?
A ship agent books the berth, handles customs and immigration clearance, arranges pilots and tugs, coordinates cargo and supplies, and pays local costs on the owner behalf, accounting for them in a disbursement account.
What is the difference between a port agent and a ship chandler?
A port agent coordinates a vessel overall needs in port and represents the owner, while a ship chandler is a supplier that provides the provisions, stores and spares. Chandlers often deliver through the agent.
How is a port agent paid?
A port agent charges an agency fee for its services and is reimbursed for the local costs it pays on the owner behalf, all itemised in a disbursement account.

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