What it Takes to be an HGV Driver

If you’re thinking about becoming a HGV driver, you’ve probably got a few questions. What do I need to know? Is it really that hard? Do I need a special license? And most importantly, can I handle the long drives and heavy loads? Well, don’t worry – we’re here to answer all your questions and help you decide if HGV driving is the right career for you. Let’s take a look at what’s involved.

What Do You Need To Know To Be An HGV Driver?

First off, let’s talk about qualifications. In order to become an HGV driver, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and driving experience of at least two years in the UK. You may also need to pass additional qualifications such as the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). The CPC is a legal requirement for anyone who wants to drive professionally in the UK or EU. It includes modules on topics like health and safety, customer service, and fuel efficiency.

You will also need to be comfortable with technology such as navigation systems and digital tachographs used to record vehicle movements. Most employers will provide training on these systems but being tech savvy will give you an advantage over other candidates when looking for work. Plus, it makes life on the road much easier!

Is It Really That Hard?

When it comes down to it, being an HGV driver sometimes involves long hours on the road — but that doesn’t mean it’s not enjoyable! Experienced drivers love their job because they get to travel around different parts of the country (or even abroad) while getting paid for their services. It takes dedication and focus but there are plenty of rewards along the way too – from seeing new places every day to meeting interesting people from all walks of life. Just make sure that you plan your trips carefully so that you have enough rest time between shifts!

How Can I Handle Heavy Loads?

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to being an HGV driver is dealing with heavy loads safely. This requires careful planning, safety checks before each journey, and expertise in loading and unloading cargo properly. With experience comes confidence – so don’t be afraid to ask questions if something isn’t clear or if you’re not sure how best to handle your load. Your employer should provide training on this topic – but even without formal instruction, basic common sense should always prevail when handling heavy objects!

Conclusion

All in all, becoming an HGV driver is no easy feat – but with commitment and knowledge it can be an incredibly rewarding career path! From mastering technology tools like navigation systems and digital tachographs, understanding regulations like CPC requirements, honing your skills in loading/unloading cargo safely – there are many things to consider before diving into this profession head-first! But once you get going – buckle up for some unforgettable experiences and stories on the open road!