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Driving a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) comes with an array of irresistible advantages that you may not be aware of! But not to worry, HGV Training Network’s dedicated team explains the rewards that come with HGV driving, and how you go about entering this lucrative industry.
What are the benefits of HGV driving?
There are numerous advantages to working within the logistics industry, so, what gratifying perks can you expect from a profession in HGV driving?
Financial rewards
One of the most significant pluses of this rewarding profession is the lucrative salaries you can achieve.
So, how much do HGV drivers earn?
The typical starting salary for a newly qualified driver sits at around £22,000, but this may differ depending on location and employer. However, the more experienced you become, the more you can expect to earn – on average, you could earn around £40,000 down the line.
Some logistics companies offer bonuses and incentives to encourage HGV drivers to join them, including health insurance and financial rewards for high performance.
Multiple job positions to choose from
Due to an ongoing driver shortage caused by an influx of retiring veteran operators, you’re free to choose between an extensive range of available jobs and haulage firms.
This means that you shouldn’t struggle to find work, and can select a job that ticks all your boxes.
Career opportunities
There’s plenty of chance for progression and advancement within the HGV industry due to the various HGV licenses you can earn.
You could start by earning your Cat C1 HGV license, permitting you to drive ‘final mile lorries’ for logistics companies such as supermarket chains.
Then you could add more strings to your bow by earning your Cat C license, allowing you to drive class 2 vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes, earning you a greater salary.
Take it one step further by earning your Cat C E license (HGV class 1) which enables you to drive large HGVs weighing up to 44 tonnes – these drivers typically earn the highest salaries in the industry.
Other diverse job positions include:
- Ambulance driving– you’ll need a Cat C1 licence and paramedic training.
- Horsebox driver– you’ll require the Cat C1 and horsebox training.
- ADR operator– as well as a c1 qualification, you’ll need an ADR Vocational Training Certificate to enter the lucrative career of delivering dangerous materials.
- HGV instructor– further into your career, you could even pass the torch and help trainee drivers enter the industry!
Flexibility and independence
As an HGV driver, you’ll be in full control of your day-to-day driving, and don’t have to work under a rigid schedule, unlike an office job. Plus, you’ll have more flexibility over your working hours, and have complete authority over the radio!
Becoming an HGV driver
To start your HGV career, you’ll need to embark on HGV training to earn your licence, which consists of theory and practical training. HGV driver training courses conclude after you pass a theory test and a practical HGV test – then, you’ll need to complete driver CPC training (certificate of professional competence).
Becoming an HGV driver begins at an HGV training centre – only a select few training centres have a proven track record of ensuring trainee drivers are trained properly, providing them with the essential driving skills required to become competent HGV operatives.
If the idea of becoming an HGV driver intrigues you and the benefits are simply too good to resist, you’re likely wondering ‘How much does HGV training cost?’. Well, HGV training courses differ in price between HGV training providers, so we recommend enquiring for quotes to ensure you’re getting the best deal!
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