Are you interested in a career as a cargo surveyor? If so, then you have come to the right place! In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about this exciting profession. We will cover the duties of a cargo surveyor, the requirements to become one, and the salary you can expect to earn. So, let's dive right in!
What is a Cargo Surveyor?
A cargo surveyor is a professional who inspects and assesses the condition of cargo during transportation. They work to ensure that cargo is transported safely and arrives at its destination in good condition. Cargo surveyors may work for shipping companies, insurance companies, or government agencies.
Cargo Surveyor Duties of a Cargo Surveyor
The duties of a cargo surveyor can vary depending on the specific job they are hired to do. However, some common duties of a cargo surveyor include:
Inspecting cargo to ensure it is properly packed and secured for transportation
Measuring and weighing cargo to ensure it meets transportation regulations
Assessing the condition of cargo before and after transportation
Investigating damage claims related to cargo
Providing recommendations for the proper handling and storage of cargo
Documenting cargo inspections and assessments
Cargo Surveyor Types of Cargo Surveyors
There are various types of cargo surveyors, including:
Marine cargo surveyors: These surveyors inspect cargo on ships, ensuring that they are loaded properly and secured for transportation.
Air cargo surveyors: These surveyors inspect cargo on airplanes, ensuring that it is properly loaded and secured for air transportation.
Land cargo surveyors: These surveyors inspect cargo on trucks and trains, ensuring that it is properly loaded and secured for transportation on land.
Government cargo surveyors: These surveyors work for government agencies and inspect cargo to ensure that it complies with regulations.
Cargo Surveyor How to Become a Cargo Surveyor
To become a cargo surveyor, you will need to meet certain educational requirements and obtain certification or licensing.
Cargo Surveyor Educational Requirements
Most employers require cargo surveyors to have at least a bachelor's degree in a field such as logistics, engineering, or a related field. Some employers may accept an associate's degree or relevant work experience in lieu of a bachelor's degree.
Cargo Surveyor Certification and Licensing
Cargo surveyors may be required to obtain certification or licensing depending on their specific job duties and location. For example, marine cargo surveyors may need to obtain a certification from a professional organization such as the International Association of Marine and Shipping Professionals (IAMSP).
Cargo Surveyor Skills Required for a Cargo Surveyor
To be a successful cargo surveyor, you will need to have the following skills:
Attention to detail
Analytical skills
Communication skills
Problem-solving skills
Technical skills
Physical stamina
Cargo Surveyor Career Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for cargo and freight agents was $48,420 as of May 2020. The job outlook for cargo surveyors is expected to grow by 3% from 2020 to
Cargo Surveyor Career Outlook and Salary (Continued)
...2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. The demand for cargo surveyors is expected to increase due to the growth of international trade and the need to ensure the safe and timely delivery of goods.
Cargo Surveyor Pros and Cons of Being a Cargo Surveyor
Like any profession, being a cargo surveyor has its pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of this job:
Cargo Surveyor Pros:
High demand: With the growth of international trade, there is a high demand for cargo surveyors.
Good salary: The median annual salary for cargo surveyors is above the national average.
Opportunity for travel: Cargo surveyors may have the opportunity to travel domestically and internationally.
Cargo Surveyor Cons:
Physically demanding: Cargo surveyors may need to climb ladders, lift heavy objects, and work in all types of weather conditions.
High-pressure job: Cargo surveyors may need to make decisions quickly and under pressure, which can be stressful.
Time away from home: Cargo surveyors may need to spend extended periods of time away from home, especially if they work on ships or airplanes.
Cargo Surveyor Challenges Faced by Cargo Surveyors
Cargo surveyors may face several challenges while performing their duties. These challenges include:
Ensuring cargo is properly secured for transportation to prevent damage or loss
Investigating claims of damage to cargo and determining liability
Dealing with clients who are unhappy with inspection results or decisions
Working in harsh weather conditions, especially for marine cargo surveyors
Cargo Surveyor Future of Cargo Surveyors
The future of cargo surveyors is expected to remain strong due to the growth of international trade and the need for safe and efficient transportation of goods. As technology advances, cargo surveyors may also be required to keep up with new tools and techniques to perform their job duties more efficiently.
Cargo Surveyor Top Companies Hiring Cargo Surveyors
Some of the top companies hiring cargo surveyors include:
Lloyd's Register
DNV GL
Bureau Veritas
Intertek
SGS
Cargo Surveyor Cargo Surveyor vs. Other Related Jobs
Cargo surveyors work in a similar field as other logistics and transportation professionals. Here is a comparison of cargo surveyors with other related jobs:
Freight and cargo inspectors: These professionals inspect cargo and goods to ensure they meet transportation regulations. Cargo surveyors focus on assessing the condition of cargo and providing recommendations for handling and storage.
Transportation, storage, and distribution managers: These professionals oversee the transportation and storage of goods. Cargo surveyors focus on inspecting and assessing the condition of cargo during transportation.
Cargo Surveyor Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
What is the job outlook for cargo surveyors?
The job outlook for cargo surveyors is expected to grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030.
What is the median annual salary for cargo surveyors?
The median annual salary for cargo surveyors is $48,420.
What are the educational requirements to become a cargo surveyor?
Most employers require cargo surveyors to have at least a bachelor's degree in a field such as logistics, engineering, or a related field.
What skills do you need to be a cargo surveyor?
You will need to have skills such as attention to detail, analytical skills, communication skills, and physical stamina.
What are the types of cargo surveyors?
The types of cargo surveyors include marine, air, land, and government cargo surveyors.
About Us
Cargo Surveyors' duty includes reporting the condition of the cargo before any loading or unloading can take place. He / She is also responsible for inspecting the quantity and quality of the cargo as per the documents submitted.
Job Role
Inspect cargo on seagoing vessels to ascertain that pertinent cargo handling regulations have been observed.
Read vessel documents that set forth cargo loading and securing procedures, capacities, and stability factors to ascertain cargo capabilities according to design and cargo regulations.
Calculate hold capacities, volume of stored fuel and water, weight of cargo, and ship stability factors, using standard mathematical formulas and a calculator
Measure ship holds and depth of fuel and water in tanks, and read the draft markings
Certify cargo and packaging is in compliance with health and safety regulations.
Determine if cargo in holds can proceed to its destination.
Inspect cargo in wharfs, freight stations..etc, and assess the condition prior to loading
Check the condition of the cargo and see if proper marking & packing methods have been used
Issue certificates of compliance for cargo that passes inspection.
Recommend procedures to correct compliance issues.
Ensure that cargo manifests match what's actually being shipped.
Take photos and document findings to produce a report.
Inspect loaded, secured cargo in holds and lashed to decks.
Analyze data obtained from the survey, formulates recommendations pertaining to vessel capacities, and writes a report of findings
Inspect cargo handling devices, such as boom, hoists, and derricks, to identify need for maintenance