How to become a HGV Driver

What does a HGV Driver do?

Lost your drive? It might be time to take the wheel…

HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) Drivers, also known as large goods vehicle drivers (LGV), transport a range of cargo between distributors, suppliers and customers.They could drive large lorries, trucks, or other commercial vehicles (weighing over 7.5 tonnes), and their job involves everything from dropping off deliveries to large businesses and factories, to transporting food and fuel.

So whether it’s within the UK, in mainland Europe, or beyond, ensuring their goods reach their destination is all in day’s work for a HGV Driver.

Typical duties for a HGV driver could include:

• Loading and unloading goods
• Making sure cargo is safe and secure
• Picking up, and sticking to, delivery schedules
• Planning routes
• Driving between destinations
• Taking payments for deliveries and completing paperwork

Is a career as a HGV Driver right for me?

Aside from excellent driving skills, it takes a good level of patience and dedication in order to become a HGV Driver.

You’ll be working on your own, often driving for long periods of time between drop-offs – so if you’re not someone who enjoys their own company and struggles to maintain their concentration levels, this may not be the right role for you.

N.B. You’ll also be representing the company you work for, every time you’re behind the wheel. Angry drivers need not apply…

Other key skills for a HGV Driver include:

• The ability to work to strict deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• An in-depth understanding of road safety
• Clear vision, and good eyesight
• A general level of strength and physical fitness