Types of HGV and LGV Driving Jobs and Employment Opportunities
The type of driving jobs you can apply for will depend on the category of licence you have. There are few grades of licence available:
LGV Cat C1 up to 7.5 tonnes, LGV C also known as HGV Class 2 to drive trucks up to 32 tonnes, and LGV Cat C+E also known as HGV Class 1 to drive trucks with trailers, such as articulated vehicles.
HGV shift work can be structured around a standard Monday to Friday schedule, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM. Or, alternatively, it may involve night shifts with the working hours agreed with the employer. Many new drivers begin their careers with this type of lorry driving to gain Heavy Goods Vehicle driving experience before progressing to other HGV roles.
4 on 4 Off of HGV/LGV employment is quite popular both with employers and drivers. In this arrangement, the driver works for four consecutive days, adhering to hours agreed upon with the employer, followed by four days off. Then, the driver can switch to night shifts for another four days before returning to day shifts after the time off.
Long-Haul HGV Driving involves covering significant distances between delivery points. Typically, drivers have fewer stops throughout the day, as some destinations may require several hours of travel.
Short-Haul HGV work tends to be more local, with drivers making multiple deliveries within a limited area. However, it is less common for these drivers to have as many stops as those in multi-drop roles. Short-haul work generally involves driving within a specific region as planned by the transport manager.
Multi-Drop LGV driving primarily involves operating smaller vehicles, such as 7.5-tonne lorries. This type of work is usually concentrated in local areas and can involve up to 60 deliveries in a single day.
Single Drop LGV work focuses on making one significant delivery. Typically, the delivery is loaded by the driver’s assistant and warehouse staff.
Continental HGV driving work is often arranged on a typical schedule of the 4 on 4 off driving pattern but primarily involves travel across Europe. Drivers may need to live in their trucks during these journeys or spend extended periods away from home.
ADR HGV roles require drivers to undergo additional training and obtain certification for transporting specialized items. This type of driving is considered one of the most hazardous, as drivers often operate large tankers carrying dangerous materials, such as petrol, liquid nitrogen, or other toxic and flammable substances that pose environmental risks.
If any of these types of jobs appeal to you, but you are lacking the appropriate Heavy Goods Vehicle licence to apply, then please give us a call – 0208453 3440
Wallace School of Transport can help with all your training needs and help you on the first steps towards your dream driving job.