Tidewaiter is an archaic term used to describe customs officials who oversaw the loading and unloading of ships at ports. There are several words that can be used as synonyms for tidewaiter, including customhouse officer, harbor master, port inspector, and wharfinger. These terms are often used interchangeably to describe individuals who are responsible for inspecting cargo and ensuring that it complies with local customs laws and regulations. While the term tidewaiter is no longer commonly used, these other words are still frequently used in the shipping industry. They all refer to individuals who play an important role in ensuring that goods are transported safely and legally across international borders.