Being a professional driver is a lot more broad than you may think. With different roles, different industries, and different sized vehicles to take into account, there are so many opportunities available. So if you’re just starting out, whether you’re fresh on the job market or changing career, you’ll be an essential part of the logistics industry. Here, we look at the types of job that you can expect with a professional HGV qualification and the benefits of different driving roles.
Understanding transport and logistics
Logistics is essentially the network responsible for the movement of goods from manufacturers to consumers. Without it, shops would be empty, factories would halt production, and services would grind to a standstill. The logistics industry ensures that products reach their destinations efficiently and on time.
Clearly, HGV drivers are crucial members of this network. They transport goods across the country, ensuring supply chains remain intact. Whether it’s delivering fresh produce to supermarkets or transporting materials for construction projects, HGV drivers keep the wheels of commerce turning. This significance makes it a rewarding career choice with salaries up to £50k and good opportunity for progression.
What industry will I work in?
Professional HGV drivers have a wide range of employment options across various industries. Employers include logistics and transportation companies, which manage the movement of goods across different locations. Retail chains also hire HGV drivers to ensure their shelves are stocked with the latest products.
The construction industry relies heavily on HGV drivers to transport materials and equipment to and from construction sites. These drivers play a critical role in enabling the timely completion of projects. Additionally, waste management companies employ HGV drivers to collect, transport, and safely dispose of waste materials.
You may work in the food and beverage industry, which depends on HGV drivers to transport raw ingredients and finished products to retailers and restaurants. These drivers often work on tight schedules to ensure perishable goods are delivered fresh. Within these industries there are a range of driver based roles which relate to the size of vehicle, or licence category, that you choose to become qualified to drive.
Category C1 licence
A Category C1 licence allows you to drive medium-sized vehicles weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg. This licence is ideal for those interested in driving smaller lorries or delivery trucks. With a C1 licence, you can pursue jobs such as more locally based delivery driver roles. You’ll also need this licence in order to drive an ambulance.
C1 drivers often find employment in parcel delivery companies, being responsible for transporting packages from distribution centres to customers’ doorsteps. You might also work for utility companies, driving vehicles used for maintaining infrastructure. Additionally, some medical supply companies hire C1 drivers to deliver essential equipment and supplies to healthcare facilities.
Many C1 driving positions are locally based and offer more predictable schedules. This can make it easier to balance work and personal life. This licence provides an excellent entry point into the world of HGV driving, offering valuable experience and opening doors to further career progression.
Category C licence
A Category C licence means you can drive rigid vehicles over 3,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg. This category includes larger lorries and is often required for roles in delivery services, haulage, and waste management.
Category C drivers are commonly employed by logistics companies to transport goods over longer distances. These roles may involve multi drop delivery from business to business or business to consumer. Waste management companies also hire Category C drivers to operate refuse, recycling, and green waste collection vehicles.
Alternatively, you might work for a construction company. Category C drivers are employed to transport heavy equipment and materials to sites. These drivers are essential for ensuring projects stay on schedule. The diversity of roles available for Category C licence holders provides ample opportunities for career growth and development.
Category C+E licence
The Category C+E licence is the pinnacle of HGV qualifications, allowing you to drive vehicles over 3,500kg with trailers over 750kg. This licence is essential for long-haul transport jobs and offers the opportunity to drive the largest vehicles on the road.
With a Category C+E licence, you can pursue careers in long-distance haulage, transporting goods both nationally and internationally. These roles often require extended periods travelling, but they offer the chance to explore new locations with variety in your working day. Category C+E drivers are also hired by logistics companies to handle complex deliveries involving multiple stops and routes.
In addition to traditional haulage roles, Category C+E drivers can work in specialised transport, such as moving hazardous materials or operating a HIAB. These positions often come with additional training and responsibilities, offering a unique and rewarding challenge for experienced drivers.
Career development in UK HGV driving
A career in HGV driving is full of opportunity. There is plenty of scope for advancement and professional growth within the industry. Starting with a C1 licence, you can gain experience and gradually progress to a Category C or C+E licence, opening doors to more challenging and rewarding roles.
Many HGV drivers choose to specialise in specific areas, such as hazardous materials transport or refrigerated goods delivery. These specialisations often come with additional training and increased responsibilities, providing a sense of accomplishment and expertise.
Let’s not forget, too, that experienced HGV drivers can choose to move into supervisory or managerial roles, overseeing a team of drivers and coordinating logistics operations. These positions offer a chance to develop leadership skills and contribute to the strategic goals of a company. You may even start your own logistics and transport business!
An HGV qualification opens the door to a world of exciting and varied career opportunities. From delivery roles with a C1 licence to long-haul transport with a C+E licence, there’s a path for every aspiring driver. If you’re considering a career in HGV driving, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Demand in the UK for skilled drivers continues to grow, offering job security and opportunities for advancement. Contact us for the best range of HGV training quotes that work for you.
