Four Good Reasons To Consider Becoming A Heavy Goods Vehicle Driver

By delivering supplies and goods across the country, HGV drivers have an essential role to play in the UK’s supply chain. In fact, the importance of this sector to the country’s economy has been clearly highlighted by the events of the last two years.

For those looking to work in the industry as drivers, you will be happy to know that the UK is currently facing a huge shortage of HGV drivers – something that has a negative implication on consumers. There are many HGV driver jobs out there, offering great benefits, like operating as your own boss, the freedom of travelling the open road and great pay.

Read on below to find out some of the main reasons why a career as an HGV driver might be a great choice for you, especially if you are considering joining this industry.

Generous Earnings

If you choose to work as an HGV driver, you will definitely be impressed by the salary – and to be frank, pay is one of the most important elements of any new job. The potential earnings, depending on training and experience level, have skyrocketed thanks to the current shortage of drivers, even though the normal starting salary is around £20,000. While earnings may vary from one employer to the next, average salary levels for HGV drivers range between £30,000 and £40,000. To make things even better, you can also earn various bonuses and incentives, in most roles. To learn more about lorry driver training see here.

Unlimited Employment Opportunities

You will rarely have to worry about job security when working as a highly-trained HGV driver – especially with the existing shortage of drivers. It is great to work in an industry that offers an additional layer of job security, especially considering how uncertain things can be in the world as seen with COVID-19.

More Freedom

You might be more suited to working as an HGV driver if you are the kind of person that cannot fathom the thought of working behind a desk from 9 to 5. Working as an HGV driver gives you the freedom to choose your preferred working schedule – this is awesome given the fact that everyone has their own unique responsibilities and lifestyle. On top of all that, you get to travel across the country, interacting with new people along the way, all while you enjoy your favourite podcast!

Reasonable Entry Requirements

It is easier, and less costly, to become an HGV driver than you might actually think. While you do need to take a number of tests before you can start operating an HGV, you don’t need a degree to get the necessary certifications. For starters, you will need to have attained 18 years of age, and be the holder of a Cat B driving license. You’ll also need to apply for a provisional lorry driving license and undergo a medical. To round things off, you will be required to earn a Driver CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence) qualification, on top of passing a practical and theory test.

Once you are done with the entire process, which sounds like a lot but only takes around 8 to 10 weeks, you will be ready to work. Considering the potential earnings you stand to make as an HGV driver, the cost of training is actually not that high. More importantly, you may not even have to pay a single cent, given that there are numerous incentives in place meant to attract new drivers.