Pros and Cons of being an HGV Driver

Here at Isis Insurance, our experienced advisors speak to HGV drivers and owner/operators each and every day, and as such have a great insight into the “day in the life of an HGV driver”.

The covid pandemic starting in March 2021 certainly highlighted the importance of the role within the UK, and the continued e-commerce boom shows no signs of relenting.

With demand for HGV drivers still high, pay increasing, working conditions getting better and rest areas improving, there has never been a better time to be a lorry driver!

The average pay for an HGV driver has increased dramatically over the last few years, with sources claiming a minimum of £32,000 per annum, and if you are working unsociable hours (night shifts and weekends) and/or overtime, exceeding £60,000 per annum is not out of reach. Some basic salaries for blue chip companies such as Waitrose and Asda are over £50,000, without the need to do overtime.

Below, Isis Insurance has listed the pros and cons of being an HGV driver to help any potential truck driver to make an informed decision. With waiting times down for training and obtaining your operators licence, the tide is turning in favour of this valuable industry.

Pros of being an HGV Driver

No shortage of work – either as a self-employed driver, owner/operator, or an employee

Great rates of pay, whether freelance or employed

Freedom to travel to new exciting destinations throughout the UK & experience a variety of locations

Opportunity to work the hours that suit you best – days, nights, weekends or a mixture

Modern lorries can be very well equipped, with beds, TV’s, fridges and microwaves for comfortable stopovers

Set your own hours and location. If self-employed, take as much time off as you can afford!

Increase your pay with overtime, night allowances and higher weekend rates

Companies eager to train and recruit – little qualifications needed

Job security – if you keep your qualifications intact, you’ll be in high demand

The opportunity to work by yourself and enjoy your own company but also meeting and communicating with new people. You can be anti-social or social in equal measure!

Lack of boredom – no one day is the same

Regular rest breaks (which are a legal requirement) – an opportunity to rest and unwind

Job satisfaction – knowing you are providing an essential service and helping UK businesses to grow. You are a hero!

Cons of being an HGV Driver

Potential of lots of long-distance driving

Physically demanding – back/leg ache, tiredness, requires lots of concentration

Long hours and shifts – and mandatory rest breaks strictly enforced

Being away from home for nights makes family time and social life unpredictable

High cost of fuel and rising insurance premiums if you are self-employed or owner operator

Some poor rest facilities and limited refreshments at truck stops, although there is a current government initiative to improve this

Stressful – need to hit deadlines for delivery to get goods unloaded/loaded

Unforeseen circumstances affecting journeys and deliveries being on time – weather, bad traffic, roadworks, accidents etc.

We would be interested to hear from HGV drivers to see if they agree with this list and if there are any aspects they would like to add to either the pros and the cons. One pro if you call or email Isis Insurance is that we will do our upmost to save you money on your HGV insurance, whether a new HGV driver or an established HGV driver.

Please call 0161 641 4909, email [email protected] or leave your details