Want to Become a HGV Driver? Here’s What You Need to Know
The freight industry is currently booming, and the demand for drivers of vans, trucks and other large vehicles is steadily increasing.
Large or heavy goods vehicle (LGV/HGV) drivers, also called lorry drivers, work to transport and deliver goods from suppliers to customers. If you want to become an HGV driver, you would be working from warehouses, depots and distribution centres and travelling to different locations in the UK and abroad. The usual load is 7.5 tonnes or over, including articulated lorries, tankers, rigid trucks, trailer wagons and transporters.
Main LGV/HGV Duties
Apart from driving, there are other roles an HGV driver needs to fulfil. For instance, you need to coordinate with transport managers about delivery schedules and routes. You also need to help and supervise the loading and unloading of goods and make sure that they are secure. It is also your responsibility to complete any log books and delivery paperwork.
It pays to be mechanically savvy, as you would need to perform tyre, oil and brake checks as well as routine maintenance before and after trips.
HGV/LGV Driver Requirements
You need to be at least eighteen years old to hold a valid HGV licence. Some requirements to getting the licence include good eyesight and a full car licence plus a good driving record. Competency in English and Maths would be an advantage in passing the HGV theory test. You also need to pass a medical examination.
The HGV licence has two categories. Category C1 lets you drive rigid vehicles of up to 7.5 tonnes, and Category C2 allows driving of vehicles over 7.5 tonnes.
If you have recently acquired your HGV licence and are looking for a career opportunity, turn to A&S Recruitment. We are experts in helping candidates find a career that suits their qualifications. A trusted independent recruitment agency, we help clients find qualified team members, as well.
If you have any questions about the services we offer, fill out our form here, and we’ll get in touch with you as soon as we can.
