Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Driver
Currently, there is a high demand for qualified HGV drivers. The increase in demand is partly attributed to an ageing workforce that is expected to reduce the number of drivers by at least 40,000. There is fear that there isn’t enough time to train new drivers to replace the retiring ones. Some people foresee a calamitous shortage of truck drivers if a solution is not found. With this information in mind, you need to know all about being an HGV driver in case you decide to become one.
What it entails
A HGV driver has the task of transporting tons of goods to various locations ina truck. They ordinarily transport manufactured and processed goods from the supplier to the market. The hours involved in this type of work are long and most of them are spent on the road. Apart from being the driver, a good HGV driver has basic knowledge on repair and maintenance of trucks. With weeks to months on the road, the truck is bound need some maintenance or repair work. If you love travelling and discovering new destinations, an HGV driver job is good for you; you get to transverse different countries and continents.
Getting Started
To become a HGV driver you only need to be above 18 years old and have a valid driving license. However, you need to train for a Certificate of Professional Competence to obtain a license to drive a truck. It requires special training to handle a truck.
Benefits of an HGV Driver
If you are few commitments that warrant you to be in a fixed location, a HGV driver can be a fun way to live and work. Being a truck driver has several benefits. Owing to the high demand and low turnover, the occupation has high job security. You also get a good salary and the opportunity to tour different places.
If you are a lady, you can join the small number of female truck drivers on the market and enjoy the high demand and low competition.
Challenges
The main challenge about being an HGV driver is the many hours you are away from home and your family. It is often hard to balance the work and family life. However, it’s possible. Other than that, an HGV driving career is great. You can train to be a truck driver and take up the job as a temporary occupation before pursuing your true vocation. If you are young and looking for an income, HGV driving is a great option.
Another challenge is security while out on the road. Security is a huge problem especially when your destination or route cuts across war zones. Truckers are venerable to hijacking and theft when the trucks breakdown on the road. Both the safety of the driver and the goods is at risk when operating along dangerous routes.
Nonetheless, a HGV driving job is a good. Once you receive training and get a heavy truck driver license you can start your career. Find a reputable driving school in Sydney where you will receive the necessary training on truck driving.
