Large Goods Vehicle Driver

Large goods vehicle (LGV) drivers, once known as heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers, collect and deliver all kinds of goods around the UK, as well as to and from the continent.

Typical duties may include:

• planning delivery schedules with transport managers
• performing a daily walk-around check of the vehicle
• loading and unloading, checking that the load is safe and secure
• following the driving regulations that apply to their particular lorry and load, including speed and load limits
• being aware of the danger of damage or theft
• checking that the right delivery paperwork is completed.

LGV drivers normally work between 40 and a maximum of 48 hours a week. They are not allowed to drive for more than nine hours on most days, although they may work longer shifts that include non-driving time. Shifts often involve early morning starts and may require weekend work and overnight stays.

Salaries may range from around £15,000 to £36,000 a year.

LGV drivers need to:

• concentrate and stay alert over long periods
• drive safely and conserve fuel
• understand driving and other laws
• be aware of health and safety issues and security risks
• have an interest in driving and travelling.

There are around 300,000 LGV drivers in the UK. The number has reduced during the recession, but vacancies for qualified drivers are still regularly advertised.

No minimum qualifications are needed to become an LGV driver, but good English and maths are useful, and an LGV licence (category C, C + E, or C1 + E) is essential. LGV drivers must also pass the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) and hold a driver's digital tachograph card.

Apprenticeships in driving goods vehicles may be available.

New drivers can undertake courses through a driver training school before looking for work. Courses last from one to three weeks. NVQs are available in driving goods vehicles at Levels 2 and 3.

As their career develops, LGV drivers can earn more by driving larger vehicles on longer trips, including overseas transport. They often move into operations management in distribution or haulage firms, or transport and logistics planning. They can also train as LGV driver instructors or specialise in an area of driving, such as hazardous goods.

Further details