How to write an HGV driver cover letter (With example)

Updated 10 March 2023

A heavy goods driver (HGV) or large goods driver transports cargo between suppliers, customers and distributors. When applying for this job, a cover letter with your CV introduces your HGV driver qualifications and makes your application unique. Learning how to write an effective cover letter can help attract the attention of recruitment managers and convince them to read your CV. In this article, we discuss how to write an HGV driver cover letter and provide a template and an example to guide you.

How to write an HGV driver cover letter

Consider these steps when writing an HGV driver cover letter:

1. Read the job description to understand the requirements

Read the job description to understand the employer's requirements so you can address them in your cover letter. The job description also helps candidates determine if a cover letter is optional or compulsory for the application. You have a better chance of getting the job if you write a different cover letter for each job application to address the specific job requirements.

Consider writing a cover letter to show how you made an extra effort, even if it's optional. The job description helps you identify keywords specific to HGV driver jobs. Include these keywords in your cover letter to help it pass the employer's applicant tracking system.

2. Write your contact information

Include your full name and degree or certification. Write them in bold and consider using a bigger font than the rest of your letter. Place your contact details at the top of the letter so that recruitment managers can find them easily to contact you for queries and updates. Under your name and degree, include your phone number, professional email address and location. Ensure your contact information in the cover letter matches the information in your CV. Include the date of writing below your contact information.

3. Add the recipient's address

To address the letter to the right person and make your cover letter more impactful, consider searching the company's website for information about potential recipients. Write the company name below the date and the recipient's name or title. You may also find the recipient's details in the job advertisement.

If you don't have the recipient's name, use a generic salutation to address them. For example, use salutations like to whom it may concern, dear recruitment manager or dear human resources manager. If you use the recipient's name, ensure you spell it correctly. Some people are sensitive about how others spell their names and spelling it correctly also shows your attention to detail.

4. Write the first paragraph

Write the first paragraph below the recipient's address to introduce yourself and express your interest in the job. When expressing interest, mention the position and the company's name. The first paragraph also explains why you want the job, how it contributes to your career goals and why you want to work for this company. Describe how you learnt about the position and mention any referrals to the position from mutual acquaintances. Highlight your experience as an HGV driver when introducing yourself. Write the first paragraph concisely in three to four sentences.

5. Discuss the qualifications in the main body

The main body of your letter explains in one or two paragraphs why you're an ideal candidate for the job. Here, you can highlight your qualifications and experience. An HGV driver requires a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and a full driver's licence, while many employers prefer drivers over 18 years of age. If you've completed all the tests to get your driver CPC, include that information here.

If you're a returning driver, mention that you've completed the necessary training to regain your CPC. Address any career transitions or employment gaps, especially if you're a returning HGV driver. Consider mentioning some vehicles you've worked with and specific achievements to emphasise your experience. For example, mention a record of completing deliveries without damaging the cargo or vehicle. Minimise repeating information from your CV when writing your cover letter.

6. Write the concluding paragraph

Use the last paragraph of your cover letter to summarise your qualifications, emphasise your interest in the job and express gratitude. You may also highlight your availability to fulfil the position's schedule and responsibilities. Write a call to action inviting the recruitment manager to contact you for any clarification and to inform you about the next step of the recruitment process. Mention the contact method you often use to enable them to contact you quickly. Consider telling the company you may contact them at a specific time to follow up on your application.

7. Include your closing salutations

Conclude your letter with closing salutations. Consider salutations such as thank you, yours faithfully, kind regards or sincerely. Write your full name below the salutation to finish the letter. If you write your cover letter by hand, consider adding a signature between the salutation and your name. Some people have an electronic signature on their email. If you have one, add it to make your letter look more professional.

8. Proofread your letter

Proofread your cover letter to remove errors and demonstrate your attention to detail. For example, ensure you've correctly spelt the company and recipient's names and check your work for grammatical errors. Consider getting a friend or colleague to proofread your cover letter to find errors you may have missed and provide feedback.

Cover letter template for HGV driver

Here's a template you can follow when crafting your cover letter:

[First name] [Last name], [Degree or certification if applicable]
[Phone number] | [Professional email address] | [Location]
Match your contact information in your CV and cover letter. A cover letter and CV are part of the same package of application materials.

[Date]
[Company name]

Option 1
Dear [Recruitment manager's first name] [Recruitment manager's last name],

Option 2
Dear recruitment manager,

Paragraph 1
[Express excitement about the position, including the role title and the company name]. [Introduce yourself by explaining why you're applying for the job, how the job aligns with your career goals and what specifically draws you to the company].

Paragraph 2
[Explain your experience and qualifications without repeating what's in your CV]. [Highlight one to two achievements with facts and data when possible]. [Explain why you'd be a good fit for the company]. [Optional – address employment gap or career transition].

Paragraph 3
[Express gratitude]. [Summarise qualifications]. [Restate interest in the role]. [Call to action + availability and preferred contact method].

[Complimentary close],
[Signature]

Cover letter example

Here's a sample cover letter for an HGV driver job to guide you:

Oscar Hudson, Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) +44 7912 524473 | oscarhudson@email.com | Edinburgh

August 24, 2022
Direct Transit Logistics Company

Dear Noah Colton,
I am writing to apply for the HGV driver position at Direct Transit Logistics Company. As a hard-working and dedicated individual with over seven years of driving experience, I am eager and excited at the opportunity to play an important role in your company's supply chain operations. I am a motivated individual who can thrive in an independent position because of skills such as self-discipline and time management, which makes me an ideal candidate for the job.

Much of my employment history has been in transportation and driving. I started as a school bus driver for three years and drove students to and from school on weekdays and on two field trips. It taught me the value of prioritising safety and time management.

In my previous role, I hauled thousands of product units to and from various locations across the country. Depending on the destination, I travelled thousands of miles in a single trip. The company's logistics department conducted a performance analysis and gave my work an 89% efficiency rating for timely and safe deliveries.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and consider my application. I welcome any opportunity to talk or meet to further discuss my qualifications and skills. With my experience, I have a lot to offer the company, such as working long hours, planning the safest and shortest routes and my experience with load restraint procedures.

Sincerely,
Oscar Hudson

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.

The model shown is for illustration purposes only, and may require additional formatting to meet accepted standards.

How to write an HGV driver cover letter (With example)