The availability of a large number of vacancies is the top reason why people are becoming LGV (Large Goods Vehicle Drivers). These vacancies are available currently in the UK.
This situation can be mainly attributed to the shortage of new trainees within the LGV field. This has been caused by the exodus of current LGV licence holders to other lucrative job prospects. Employers are now forced to find ways of making LGV driving posts more lucrative. They are doing this through the adjustment of their policies. Better working hours, greater perks, as well as higher salaries, are some of the benefits that drivers can look forward to. In spite of the current shortage of LGV drivers, the compensation within this industry has generally been regarded as relatively good. It ranges between 50p and £1. This is the rate above the minimum hourly wage.
The job security that comes with LGV driving is another factor making this career ideal. Protection of drivers’ rights is guaranteed through the stern regulations within the industry. Furthermore, employers have to ensure necessary steps are taken to keep their current staff.
People not being able to meet the requirements needed to become an LGV driver is another reason as to why there’s a shortage of drivers currently. The essential CPC training isn’t completed by many drivers yet these same drivers have their C and C+E licences. The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training is rendered by authorised providers. CPC courses are taken for 7 days involving a 5-hour daily session. No examinations or tests are involved in this training. A DQC (Driver Qualification Card) is received purely based on attendance. This card is received from the DVSA which stands for the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
A nominal fee is required during the training and acquisition of the Driver Qualification Card. To make these positions more attractive, employers sometimes opt to meet these costs. This happens in situations where C+E or C category licences are already possessed by drivers.
The flexibility that comes with being an LGV driver is another reason for consideration. Applications can be made for long-distance posts by drivers who have such preferences. This may involve travelling throughout the United Kingdom as well as aboard. Local, regional or city hauling positions can be ideal for drivers that choose to stay close to home.
Relatively low requirements are involved in both driver training and licensing. Also, they are accomplished rather quickly. A licence required to drive regular cars is first needed before you start training. Thereafter, a class 2 or C licence is required. Training, a practical examination and a test are involved in this process. A class 1 or C+E licence can be achieved once a driver has attained the C licence.
The training course one undertakes as well as time that one commits to the training courses are huge determinants of the time it would take for one to meet licensing requirements. The fastest results are achieved through one on one daily sessions with a trainer.
As a matter of fact, LGV training can be pursued by individuals with no impact on the individuals’ current jobs. They can go for part-time training to see this through. They can also choose to find spare time to go for training.