What does a Lorry Driver do?
A Lorry Driver is employed by a delivery company or transport provider to deliver goods from a supplier to a customer. A Lorry Driver makes deliveries using large goods vehicles or heavy goods vehicles and is responsible for making deliveries on time and to the correct address. They are in charge of setting their own driving routes and daily schedule while also minimising fuel consumption and delivery times. A Lorry Driver delivers a wide range of goods that include industrial materials, food, beverages or consumer goods. The goods that they deliver vary depending on the industry they work in.
Lorry Driver skills and qualifications
A successful Lorry Driver candidate will have certain prerequisite skills and qualifications. They need the appropriate driving qualifications to operate heavy goods vehicles and a range of organisational and logistics skills that typically include:
- Ability to drive long distances in cramped conditions while maintaining concentration
- Ability to drive through the night or spend long periods of time away from home
- Mechanical skills, such as changing the engine oil
- Ability to communicate with both suppliers and customers and provide up-to-date information, such as delivery times
- A full UK driving license, ideally with zero points
- Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) for driving
- HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) License, covering Category C1 and Category C vehicles
- Must be over 18 years of age with the ability to lift 20 kilogrammes
Lorry Driver experience requirements
Lorry Drivers need a minimum of two years of experience driving large goods vehicles, buses or other commercial vehicles. They ideally have at least five years of experience driving non-commercial vehicles and experience driving and navigating in a variety of weather conditions, times of the day and different parts of the country. Employers can look for candidates with prior experience working in warehouses and logistics roles, while any mechanical experience is always an added bonus.
Lorry Driver education and training requirements
Lorry Drivers require GCSEs in English and maths as a minimum. Knowledge of the Highway Code is essential. Look for candidates who have attended recognised HGV or LGV training courses, such as those provided by the Freight Transport Association or the Road Haulage Association.
Lorry Driver salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Lorry Driver in the UK is £32,504 per year. Salary may depend on experience, location and company.
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