What is shipping agency?

The shipping agency service has played a crucial role over the centuries, facilitating communication and coordination between all parties involved in transportation between ports. From the arrival of the vessel to the release of the cargo and crew, the shipping agent takes care of all the necessary procedures.

According to the National Federation of Shipping Agencies (Fenamar), shipping agency, also known as shipping agency, has a history that goes back to ancient times. This is not surprising, considering that maritime transport has always been one of the main forms of exchanging goods between continents. Even today, it represents approximately 90% of international trade, according to the International Chamber of Shipping.

Functions of a shipping agent

Shipping agencies are appointed by shipowners and freight forwarders/cargo traders to provide and transmit essential information between all stakeholders in maritime transport, including port authorities and entities linked to vessels and cargo, both in import and export.

In addition, shipping agencies are responsible for coordinating the berthing and unberthing of vessels in ports, as well as obtaining the necessary documents for operations within the established deadlines, as without them, the transported cargoes will not be released. These are just some of the activities coordinated by shipping agents, which include pilotage, tugboats, mooring, supply, crew changes, repairs, inspections by authorities, obtaining berthing and unberthing authorizations, payment of fees from the approving authorities and preparation of operational reports.

The shipping agent is responsible for coordinating all phases of the maritime transport process, from scheduling vessel calls at ports to documentation and dispatch with the authorities. It is essential that the shipping agent is well informed and understands each stage of the transportation of goods, intervening when necessary to optimize port operations and facilitate the exchange of information between the parties involved.

He plays a crucial role in developing efficient logistics to avoid setbacks, such as container demurrage, and also takes care of formal, documentary and customs issues related to foreign trade, in addition to supervising the operation of ships, from crew management to possible repairs to the vessels.

The shipping agent acts as the link between various entities in the maritime sector, including shipowners, charterers, customs brokers, exporters, importers and maritime authorities, ensuring the efficient and safe flow of port operations.

Benefits of hiring a shipping agency

One of the great advantages of the shipping agency service is the guaranteed security in obtaining, managing and sharing essential information for vessel operations, resulting in more efficient and lower-cost movements.

Furthermore, shipping agencies have in-depth knowledge of the ports, including details on documentation, deadlines, suppliers and local authority requirements.

A detailed understanding of the legislation applicable to each procedure, from the berthing of the vessel to the regulations related to goods and crew, is an integral part of the shipping agent’s responsibility and expertise.

With regard to regulatory compliance, certain specific documents, such as the “Free Practice” issued by Anvisa for sanitary control of vessels, must be handled appropriately by the shipping agent to ensure the vessel’s access to or departure from the port.

These documents are provided by the shipping agent, who is familiar with all legal procedures with the port authorities, including Anvisa, the Federal Police, Customs, the Port Authority and the Harbor Master’s Office.

Lachmann Shipping Agency

Hiring shipping agency services represents the best strategy to maximize the efficiency of a vessel’s call at a port, resulting in savings in time and resources. However, it is crucial to select the right company to avoid setbacks and complications.

This involves not only understanding the market and shipping agency procedures, but also carefully choosing the company best suited to represent your interests and those of your vessels in each port.

In this context, Lachmann stands out as the ideal choice, with an integrated operational model that covers the entire Brazilian foreign trade logistics chain since 1927. As the only Brazilian member of Multiport Ship Agencies, Lachmann demonstrates its expertise, competence and commitment to customer success, in addition to being the company with the largest number of port calls served.

Serving several segments, including Liner, Tramp, Projects and Special Services, Lachmann offers personalized and efficient services to meet the specific needs of each client, such as vessel dispatch, protective agent, shipowner’s agent, charterer’s agent, vessel service, operation planning and coordination, BL – bill of lading and manifests, freight and tariff receipt control, system updates, container repair, container logistics, control and collection.

To learn more about our shipping agency services, contact us through our website, and our specialized team will be ready to assist you.