The specific tasks of a cargo broker or port agent include:

In some parts of the world, these agents are referred to as port agents or cargo brokers.

The duties of a cargo broker are similar to those of a shipping agent, but may also vary.

An auto transport broker is a type of cargo broker that specializes in the shipping and transportation of vehicles.

For example, a cargo broker will also book outward cargo and inform the shippers on which quay and when the goods are to be presented and when loading and unloading is due to start.

Dry cargo brokers are typically specialists in the chartering of Bulk carriers, and are appointed to act either for a shipowner looking for employment for a ship, or a charterer with a cargo to be shipped.

Mr. Miller said he and his fellow inventor Neil Barni are promoting their patented business model and Web site at trade shows, through trade publications and with individual cargo companies and freight associations in an effort to add shippers and cargo brokers to their registry.