The agent organizes a berth, pilotage, towage, line-handlers and boatmen, cargo-handling, security guards, waste collection, bunker fuel, fresh water, provisions and stores, repairs, crew changes, medical and dental visits, ship’s cash requirements, and crew mail.
The agent liaises with customs, port health, immigration and police, and with cargo shippers and receivers. The agent may tender written notice of readiness on the master’s behalf if required. The agent pays light dues on behalf of the ship (in the UK and Ireland and some other countries).