What is the difference between shipping agency and port agency?

1, Definition and scope of responsibilities
Shipping agency: Shipping agency refers to an organization or individual that accepts the commission of the shipowner, operator, or lessee to handle various affairs related to the vessel during its stay in port. The responsibilities of a shipping agent include but are not limited to: handling ship entry and exit procedures, arranging loading and unloading operations, coordinating the use of port facilities, handling crew changes, material supply, etc. The main service targets of shipping agents are the ships themselves and their operators, aiming to ensure the smooth operation of ships during their stay in port.
Port agency: Port agency focuses more on providing agency services to port authorities, port enterprises, or other relevant parties. Its scope of responsibilities is extensive, which may include the management and maintenance of port facilities, coordination and supervision of port operations, warehousing and transportation of port goods, and services related to port safety and environmental protection. The service targets of port agents are more diversified, aiming to improve the operational efficiency and service quality of ports, and promote the economic development of ports and surrounding areas.
2, Work focus and attention points
The focus of the work of shipping agents mainly revolves around the operation and management of ships. They closely monitor the dynamic information of the ship, such as its navigation plan, expected arrival time, loading and unloading progress, etc., to ensure that the ship can complete various tasks on time and safely. At the same time, shipping agents also need to maintain close contact with port authorities, customs, maritime and other departments to coordinate and solve various problems encountered by ships during their stay in port.
Port agents pay more attention to the overall operational status and service quality of the port. They are committed to optimizing port operation processes, improving the utilization of port facilities, reducing port operating costs, and thereby enhancing the competitiveness of the port. In addition, port agents also need to pay attention to the safety and environmental protection of the port, ensuring that port operations comply with relevant laws and regulations.
3, Customer Relationship and Service Model
Long term and stable cooperative relationships are usually established between shipping agents and customers. They help customers reduce operating costs and improve operational efficiency by providing professional ship agency services. The service model of shipping agents is often customized, providing personalized solutions based on the specific needs of customers.
The customer relationships of port agents are more extensive and complex. They not only need to maintain close contact with direct stakeholders such as port authorities and port enterprises, but also need to establish good cooperative relationships with indirect stakeholders such as shippers, shipping companies, and logistics service providers. The service model of port agency is more diversified, which may include providing port information consulting services, port operation coordination services, port cargo warehousing and transportation services, etc.