Many people may look at a move into HGV driving as a radical career move. What if you’re already working in the logistics, warehousing or manufacturing industries, though? You may have talked to drivers and have become interested in that type of role. In house promotion into HGV driving can be a career progression that is overlooked. However, it’s a logical and efficient step for both business and employees. Here we look at the benefits that this kind of career progression offers and how to go about it.
HGV Training for businesses
The logistics industry is a critical backbone of the economy, transporting goods across the country and beyond. With a shortage of professional drivers in the UK, HGV training has become increasingly important. This is why many organisations now work in partnership with established HGV Driver training suppliers to manage their training needs. From initial qualification through to ongoing CPC training and career development, it’s worth exploring these options with your employer.
Types of Driver Training to consider
Depending on the role that you’re currently employed in, there are specific training requirements that you’d need to undertake. When a business works in partnership with a training supplier, that supplier will manage all of the administration and decision making for you.
Initial Licence Training
Your employer may offer initial licence training, which is the first step towards becoming a qualified HGV driver. This training covers the basics of driving an HGV, including handling the vehicle, understanding road safety, and complying with traffic regulations. The initial licence training ensures that aspiring drivers are well prepared to handle the responsibilities of the job.
Initial CPC
The Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a mandatory qualification for all professional HGV drivers. The initial CPC training includes modules on health and safety, road safety, environmental considerations, and more. This training guarantees that drivers meet the required standards and are competent to perform their duties safely and efficiently.
Ongoing CPC
To maintain their qualifications, HGV drivers must complete periodic CPC training every five years. Ongoing CPC training helps drivers stay updated with the latest regulations, technology, and best practices in the industry. By offering ongoing CPC training, employers ensure that their drivers remain compliant and continue to enhance their skills.
In-House Promotion
Employers often provide in-house promotion opportunities for their HGV drivers. This could include advanced training for operating specialised vehicles, leadership training for supervisory roles, or adding categories onto a current licence. By investing in their employees’ growth, companies can retain top talent and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Business Benefits of In-House HGV Training
There are many ways in which training or developing existing staff in HGV driving can benefit a business. From cost savings to staff retention, training programmes are a worthy investment.
Professional Development
Partnering with a training supplier allows businesses to offer professional development opportunities to their drivers. This not only improves the skills and knowledge of the workforce but also boosts employee satisfaction and loyalty. Companies that invest in their employees’ development are more likely to retain skilled workers and attract new talent.
Efficiency and Cost Savings
High quality HGV training leads to significant operational cost savings. Well trained drivers are less likely to be involved in accidents, reducing repair and insurance costs. Additionally, efficient driving practices can lower fuel consumption, further cutting down operational expenses. Investing in driver training is a smart financial decision that yields long term benefits.
Regulation Compliance
Staying compliant with regulations is crucial for any logistics business to avoid hefty fines, legal issues and driver time off the road. Ongoing training programs ensure that drivers are fully compliant with the latest regulations and requirements, giving businesses peace of mind and protecting them from potential legal troubles. A professional training partner can manage this aspect, ensuring that all drivers meet the required standards.
High Pass Rates
When organisations source good value HGV training, they will be able to ensure a good pass rate. Professional training providers often offer guarantees, such as additional training and tests at no extra cost if a driver fails. This guarantee ensures a high success rate, protecting the business’s investment in training and ensuring that drivers are well prepared.
Personal Development for Drivers
It’s not just the business that benefits from structured HGV driver training within an organisation. With an established process in place, the individuals can enjoy many benefits such as career progression and job satisfaction.
Ongoing Training
As well as being a legislative requirement, ongoing training is essential for drivers to maintain their skills and stay updated with industry developments. Periodic CPC sessions help drivers improve their performance, enhance their knowledge, and stay compliant with regulations. Training providers will keep on top of the scheduling for this, ensuring that you don’t fall behind.
Opportunities for Promotion
In house driver training can open doors to new opportunities for promotion within the organisation. With specialist training options such as HIAB (Hydraulic Arm and Boom) and ADR (transporting dangerous goods) courses, drivers can progress their growth and development.
Potential for Salary Increase
Investing in driver training can lead to salary increases for employees. Skilled and well trained drivers are valuable assets to the organisation, and employers may offer higher salaries to retain them. When your organisation works with an established HGV training supplier, they can provide opportunities for training and development that bring with them a salary increase.
Less Administrative Responsibility
Professional training providers handle all aspects of driver training administration, from scheduling to paperwork. This reduces the administrative burden on both the company and the individual. Efficient administration ensures that drivers receive the necessary training without delays or disruptions.
More Job Security
By receiving regular training and development opportunities, you’re more likely to feel secure in your current and future roles with an organisation. Ongoing training is the ideal opportunity for an organisation to demonstrate the commitment they have to their workforce.
Learning to drive an HGV through your existing organisation offers numerous benefits for both individuals and businesses. From professional development and operational cost savings to enhanced reputation and compliance with regulations, investing in HGV training is a smart decision. Aspiring HGV drivers can look forward to personal growth, opportunities for promotion, and increased job security. Businesses, on the other hand, can achieve long-term financial savings, improve efficiency, and attract top talent.
Ready to take the next step in your HGV driving career or enhance your company’s logistics operations? HGV Training will get you in touch with the courses that suit your needs.
