Despite a mid and post-pandemic recruitment surge in the sector, between 2020 and 2023 to combat the shortage during Covid, the transport industry is once again facing a decline in the number of full-time drivers. Based on predicted economic growth, the RHA reports that by 2029 there will be a need for 740,000 HGV drivers to support the UK logistics sector, compared to the estimated 684,000 currently. The aging workforce is largely to blame, with data revealing less than 2% of lorry drivers in the UK are under the age of 25.
Looking for a new career? Have you ever considered being a truck driver? Becoming an HGV driver offers several benefits. The job offers flexibility in terms of working hours and the ability to travel. Additionally, it can be a fulfilling career, contributing to the economy and supporting local communities.
With Google searches for ‘HGV driver salary’ reaching 3,000 per month, it’s clear it’s a role in high demand, which means that you can really increase your earning potential by training in HGV driving. HGV drivers often earn well above average wages, especially with the current shortage of qualified drivers. There are also other benefits available depending on the company that hires you and the length of time you’ve been there.
With the number of jobs on the road being so high, there will always be a company out there willing to snap you up. More businesses pop up every day, which means that the haulage industry is really under pressure to bring in more drivers. The logistics and transport industry is essential to the smooth running of the country and there is a constant demand for HGV drivers. Coupled with the aging workforce and frequent shortages of full-time drivers, there will always be good job opportunities and long-term security within the industry.
Google searches for ‘HGV training’ are increasing month by month, seeing around 46,000 searches from interested Brits.
To be able to get your HGV licence, you need to pass a series of defined steps. This includes a medical test, theory test in the same way you do when driving a car, practical training and driver CPC training. You can also take on additional training to get your Advisory Dangerous Goods by Road certification which allows you to take on more as a driver.
Everyone loves workplace flexibility, and as an independent HGV driver, you can set your own hours, with different shift patterns so you can balance work and life. You can even set your own location if you need to move within the country.
When you’re stuck behind a desk, you don’t get to see anything but the four walls of the office. As an HGV driver, you get to see it all and go anywhere, choosing the routes and earning money for doing all of that.
