The ship’s agent supplies the vessel, at the request of its consignment agent, with all types of supplies or goods necessary for the technical operation of the vessel (spare parts, etc.) and for the well-being of its occupants (provisions, water, etc.). The process of supplying the ship with fuel is known as bunkering.

Qualities and skills

• Organisation
• Attention to detail
• Forward planning and time management
• Communication skills
• Fluency in spoken and written English (and possibly another language)
• Team management
• Knowledge of purchasing and procurement techniques
• Stock management and cost calculation
• Knowledge of procedures for declaring goods received or delivered to customs;
• Knowledge of customs and port procedures
• Thorough knowledge of safety and security procedures
• Knowledge of accounting and budget planning

Educational and training requirements

Open to candidates with Higher Technician qualifications (two years’ further education after A-levels), preferably in the transport sector. A legal background may be required.

Sectors and organisations

This role is carried out in companies or with freight forwarders and transport operators specialising in international freight or import-export services. The ship chandler is also often referred to by the English term widely used in the maritime sector: shipchandler.

Source: LH PORT CENTER – Further information at www.lhportcenter.com