Shipping
Shipping is an important mode of transport especially for bulk cargo. It is an important aspect of international trade and forms the pivot of the country’s commercial activities. The industry has two main areas of work, other then the movement of vessels covered under `Merchant Navy’, first is the work pertaining to ports and docks and the second area of work is related to the inland trading centres.

Ports and docks form the hubs of activity as shipping is concerned. Generally all the shipping companies would have their head offices situated at the port cities, which are linked with branch offices in the hinterland, who finally receive the cargo and containers sent either by road or rail transport obtain, necessary clearances like customs clearance etc. Inland trading centres provide the vital link between the customer and the port. Officials in these areas are involved in chartering and brokering of ships as also in handling and storage of cargo etc.

Educational Qualification:
Due to paucity in training facilities most shipping companies take graduates and provide on the job training. However candidates with a diploma in shipping have a definite advantage. Correspondence course for preparing for the qualifying examination held by the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) for membership of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (MICS) is offered by the Academy of Maritime Education and Training, Chennai. The course is conducted in association with Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, London.