Ltdslinet shipping line arranges on behalf of their client, all documentation and services relevant to the ship and its cargo. These may include:
- booking the vessel in and out of the port, and arranging the pilot and tug boat services
- providing information on the crew and any passengers to the department of immigration and citizenship, including who has visas
- ensuring that the ship's documentation complies with international regulations as this will be inspected by Customs when they board the ship
- preparing the quarantine pre-arrival report (QPAR) which provides details on the crew, the ship's previous route and any deaths or illnesses which may have occurred during the voyage
- advising Customs of the ship's arrival and reporting the cargo on board
- Logistics involved with provisions and fuel
- providing the stevedore's ship planner with the manifest which gives detailed information on the cargo to be handled
- liaising with stevedores and terminal operators regarding the safe handling of containers, break-bulk and bulk liquids, and ensuring that the master is well aware of shore requirements and vice versa.

The ship agent is also responsible for organising:
- Crew changes, any associated immigration documentation and arrangements such as booking flights
- paying the crew
- Ship services including repairs and maintenance