17 Shipping Agent Interview Questions and Answers

In a global economy, goods need to move quickly and efficiently from one location to another. That’s where shipping agents come in. Shipping agents are responsible for the coordination and execution of all aspects of the shipping process, from booking cargo space to arranging for customs clearance.

The shipping industry is complex and ever-changing, so employers are looking for candidates who are adaptable and have the ability to think on their feet. If you’re applying for a shipping agent job, you can expect to be asked a mix of general and specific shipping interview questions.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of the most common shipping interview questions and answers.

Are you familiar with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards for shipping?

The IATA is an international organization that sets standards for the shipping industry. Employers ask this question to make sure you are familiar with these standards and can apply them in your work as a shipping agent. In your answer, explain which IATA standards you know and how they affect your job.

Example: “I am very familiar with the IATA’s standards for shipping. As someone who has worked in this field for many years, I have seen first-hand how important it is to follow these standards. For example, if a shipment does not meet IATA standards, the carrier may reject it or charge more money to transport it. To avoid these situations, I always make sure my shipments comply with all IATA standards.”

What are the most important things to consider when shipping hazardous materials?

Shipping hazardous materials requires special attention to detail. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the proper procedures for shipping these items and can apply your knowledge in a safe way. In your answer, explain what makes shipping hazardous materials different from other shipments. Share an example of how you would handle shipping hazardous materials if they were part of your job duties.

Example: “Hazardous materials are regulated by the Department of Transportation because they pose a danger to people and property when shipped improperly. The most important thing to consider when shipping hazardous materials is that they must be packaged properly. I always double-check my work to ensure all packaging meets safety standards. For instance, I might use a wooden box with metal strapping instead of cardboard boxes.”

How would you handle a situation where a shipment was delayed due to bad weather?

Weather can be unpredictable, and it’s important to have a plan in place for when delays occur. Employers want to know that you’re able to handle unexpected situations with ease. In your answer, explain how you would use your problem-solving skills to find the best solution for the situation.

Example: “I would first contact my client to let them know about the delay. I would then call the trucking company to see if there was any way they could get the shipment to its destination faster. If not, I would ask the driver if they could deliver the shipment as soon as possible after the weather cleared up. This is especially important if the shipment contained perishable goods.”

What is your process for confirming that a shipment has arrived at its destination?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your skills to complete tasks and manage projects. Describe a specific process that you have used in the past, or explain what steps you would take if this is something you haven’t done before.

Example: “I usually call the customer once I receive confirmation from the driver that they’ve arrived at their destination. This helps me confirm that the shipment has been delivered successfully and gives me an opportunity to address any concerns the customer may have about the delivery. If I’m working with a client who prefers email communication, I send them an email confirming that the shipment has arrived at its destination.”

Provide an example of a situation where you used your negotiation skills to resolve an issue with a client or customer.

Shipping agents often work with clients and customers to ensure they understand the shipping process. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with people in a customer service role. Use your answer to show that you can be empathetic when resolving issues. Explain how you helped your client or customer resolve their issue by using your negotiation skills.

Example: “When I worked as a shipping agent for a large company, I had a customer who was upset because her package arrived damaged. She called me to complain about the situation, but I remained calm and listened to what she had to say. I asked her questions to better understand why she was so upset. After talking with her for a few minutes, I realized she was expecting an item for her birthday. I apologized for the inconvenience and told her I would send her a new package free of charge.”

If a shipment was damaged during transit, how would you handle the situation?

Shipping agents often have to deal with damaged shipments. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to handle these situations and can help their company avoid any negative consequences. In your answer, explain that you would first try to resolve the situation directly with the customer. If they are not satisfied, you would then work with the shipping company to find a solution.

Example: “I would start by contacting the customer to see if there was anything I could do to fix the problem. If they were still unsatisfied, I would contact the shipping company to let them know what happened. They would likely offer some sort of compensation for the damage or lost goods. This is why it’s so important to build strong relationships with customers and coworkers.”

What would you do if you noticed that a shipment contained the wrong items?

Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to solve problems and think critically. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to fix the mistake and ensure that the shipment is sent out with the correct items as soon as possible.

Example: “If I noticed a mistake on a shipment, I would immediately contact my manager or supervisor to let them know about it. Then, I would call the customer who ordered the shipment to inform them of the issue. From there, I would work with my team to find the right items for the shipment and send it back out as quickly as possible.”

How well do you understand the shipping industry’s regulations and requirements?

Shipping companies must comply with a variety of regulations and requirements. The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of these rules and how you would apply them in the workplace. Use examples from your experience to show that you understand shipping regulations and can apply them correctly.

Example: “I have worked as a shipping agent for five years, so I am very familiar with all of the industry’s regulations and requirements. For example, I know that it is important to check whether the shipper or receiver has any special licenses before shipping goods. In my previous job, I noticed that one of our clients did not have the required license to ship certain products overseas. I informed my manager about this issue, and we helped the client obtain the necessary license. This action ensured that they could continue shipping their products without breaking any laws.

Do you have experience using shipping software to track shipments?

Shipping software is a common tool for shipping professionals to use when tracking shipments. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience using the software they use at their company. If you do, share your experience and explain how you used it. If you don’t have experience with the specific software, talk about other shipping software you’ve used in the past.

Example: “I have worked with several different shipping software programs throughout my career. I find that each program has its own unique features that make them useful. For example, one program may be better for creating labels while another is better for tracking shipments. In my last role, we used ShippingEasy as our primary shipping software. It was easy to learn and provided many useful tools for managing shipments.”

When planning a shipment, how do you determine the best route and mode of transportation?

Shipping agents must have a strong understanding of the shipping industry and how to plan shipments. This question helps employers determine if you are qualified for this role by testing your knowledge about shipping routes and modes. Use examples from your experience to show that you can make informed decisions when planning shipments.

Example: “I consider several factors when determining the best route and mode of transportation. First, I look at the customer’s budget to see what options they want to use. Then, I check the company’s database to see which carriers offer those modes of transportation. Finally, I research each carrier to ensure they have a good reputation and track record.”

We want to be able to quickly adapt to our clients’ needs. How would you handle a last-minute change in a shipment’s destination?

Shipping companies often have to make last-minute changes in shipments due to weather conditions, accidents or other unforeseen circumstances. Employers want to know that you can handle these situations with ease and professionalism. In your answer, explain how you would react to a change in destination and what steps you would take to ensure the shipment arrives safely at its new location.

Example: “I would first contact my client to see if they had any suggestions for alternate destinations. If not, I would call the shipping company’s contacts at the original destination to find out why the shipment needed to be changed. Then, I would work with the shipping company to arrange the new route and get all of the necessary paperwork in order.”

Describe your process for confirming that a shipment has arrived at its destination.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your skills to complete a task. Your answer should include steps that show your attention to detail and ability to work independently.

Example: “I first check my shipping documents for the tracking number, which I enter into the company’s website to see if it has arrived at its destination. If there is no record of the shipment arriving, I contact the client to make sure they have entered all necessary information correctly. If everything looks correct, I call the driver or delivery service to confirm that the shipment hasn’t been delivered yet.”

What makes you an ideal candidate for this shipping agent position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications for the job. They want to know what makes you stand out from other candidates and how you can contribute to their company. Before your interview, make a list of all your skills and experiences that relate to this position. Think about which ones are most important for shipping agents and highlight these in your answer.

Example: “I am an ideal candidate for this position because I have extensive experience working with customers. In my previous role as a customer service representative, I learned how to handle difficult situations and provide excellent customer care. This skill is especially useful when handling clients who need help with shipments. I also understand the importance of accuracy and efficiency, so I would work hard to ensure every shipment was handled correctly.”

Which shipping industries do you have prior experience in?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your background and experience. They may ask this question to see if you have any prior experience in their industry or with the company they’re interviewing you for. If you don’t have any shipping experience, it’s important to highlight other relevant work experiences that are transferable to the role.

Example: “I’ve worked as a shipping agent for over five years now. I started out working at a small shipping agency where I learned how to ship items domestically and internationally. After two years there, I moved to a larger shipping company where I gained valuable experience shipping large quantities of goods.”

What do you think is the most important skill for a shipping agent to have?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you have the skills and abilities necessary for this role. You can answer by listing a skill, explaining what it means to be a shipping agent and giving an example of how you use this skill in your work.

Example: “I think the most important skill for a shipping agent is communication. Shipping agents need to communicate with customers, vendors, other employees and management about shipments, delivery schedules and any issues that arise during transit. I’ve always been good at communicating clearly and concisely, which has helped me resolve many problems before they become larger issues.”

How often do you think a shipment should be inspected during transit?

This question can help the interviewer assess your knowledge of shipping regulations and how you apply them to ensure compliance. Your answer should include a specific number, but it’s also important that you explain why you chose that number.

Example: “I think shipments should be inspected at least once every 30 days during transit. This is because most shipments are in transit for less than 30 days, so this inspection schedule allows for regular checks without being too burdensome on the company or the inspector. It also ensures that any issues with the shipment are addressed before they become more serious.”

There is a risk that a shipment might get stuck in bad weather on the way to its destination. How would you handle this situation?

Weather can be unpredictable, and it’s important to have a plan in place for when shipments get stuck. Your answer should show the interviewer that you know how to handle this situation effectively.

Example: “I would contact the driver immediately if I noticed there was bad weather on their route. If they were unable to reach their destination before the storm hit, I would ask them to park the truck at a safe location until the storm passed. Then, I would instruct them to continue with the shipment as soon as possible after the storm.”