Drivers of large goods vehicles (LGVs) and heavy-goods vehicles (HGVs) transport and deliver products between suppliers and clients. They are a key link in the global supply chain, and part of the wider industry of logistics and transport. You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving license to drive a lorry. You can apply for a traineeship with a freight firm or take an LGV course at a private training provider to get into a lorry. A Certificate of Professional Competence is also required. Apprenticeships are another way to enter this profession.
You’ll need these skills to be a good lorry driver:
- Excellent driving skills and road safety knowledge
- Ability to concentrate and work independently for long periods
- Good customer service
- Ability to accurately complete paperwork and record sheets
Driving commercial vehicles above 7.5 tonnes is part of the job. The vehicles include tankers, articulated trucks, trailer wagons, and transporters. It is expected that you will drive across the country and even into Europe to transport goods, while working out of warehouses and depots. It’s a given that you will become familiar with the interior of warehouses. For Trailer Parts, visit autoandtrailer.com
Your duties could include:
- Transport managers and delivery schedulers can work together to plan routes and delivery schedules.
- Supervising or assisting with the loading and unloading of goods
- Ensure that loads are secured safely.
- Follow traffic reports, and if necessary, change your route.
- Complete delivery paperwork and logbooks.
