HGV Driving - What's it Really Like?

How many times have you seen a trucker pass you by on the motorway and thought, 'I could do that, no problem.' But, have you ever gave it any real consideration, what is life really like on the road?

LGV truck driving as a career can open up many opportunities, the earning capacity for those who opt to get behind the wheel can range from £450 to £600 per week. The pay is well above the national minimum wage and the majority of companies now include full benefits packages including sick pay and pension schemes. In addition there is the added flexibility of whether you want to work days or nights. The flexibility of working hours means that people can choose to work as much or as little as they want whilst remaining within the 48 hour maximum driving time restriction.  International HGV companies also hire people to work nationally as well as internationally, which is something worth considering after you have gained experience driving HGV's in the country.

During the recession, these are the companies that are providing much needed job security, these are the companies that have continued to hire throughout the economic crisis.

With the majority of HGV drivers now being over the age of 40, is the trucking industry becoming less popular? There is no denying that HGV driving can be demanding and perhaps that is why there is such a shortage of those willing to put in the hours, some drivers say that life on the road can sometimes be a little lonely. Fighting the effects of fatigue often feature strongly in HGV blogging sites. Those that have chosen to opt out of this career have said that extra controls implemented by companies have become too restrictive, with routes being planned and the need for resourcefulness and initiative no longer of any real importance.  However, companies contest that such procedures are essential in ensuring lower motoring expenses and liability costs. Some companies provide their drivers with GPS systems so that they are able to plan their own routes.

Common misconceptions about the driving industry include that it is only men that are in this profession, although there are few, women are also behind the LGV wheel. With many training schools teaming up with companies that require HGV drivers the opportunity for finding employment is pretty much guaranteed. If you genuinely enjoy driving, modern day cabins can provide maximum comfort and you will be able to choose the music you want to listen to.

There are always additional courses that you can take to improve your profession  and further refine your driving skills. Other career opportunities after you have clocked up some miles on the clock include becoming a HGV driving instructor. This is also a well paid profession that can be rewarding and give you the chance to pass on your experiences and valuable knowledge of life on the road.

A career in the haulage industry may not seem like the first obvious choice but with generous wage packets and flexible working hours it just might be worth a second look.