Apprenticeship

You can get into this job through an intermediate apprenticeship as a large goods vehicle driver. You may need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, for an intermediate apprenticeship

The Building Materials Industry are great supporters of apprenticeships.
To view apprenticeship vacancies click here

Work

If you're already working for a transport operator, for example as a clerk, your employer may be willing to train you.

Other routes

Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) courses last from one to three weeks and cover driving skills, basic mechanics, and loading and securing loads. The test includes vehicle safety questions, manoeuvres such as reversing into a loading bay, 25 miles of road driving and a theory test based on the Highway Code and LGV regulations.You can find training providers in your region through searching online. It's recommended that you compare several providers before signing up to see what they offer and to make sure it fits your needs.

You'll need:

• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• being able to use a computer terminal or hand-held device may be beneficial for this job.

Restrictions and requirementsYou'll need to:

• have a driving licence that includes LGV (lorries) or PCV (buses), if you work with these vehicles
• be over 18 years of age
• have a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) - this is known as the Driver CPC
• have good eyesight

The LGV licence test is divided into two categories:

• Category C1 allows you to drive rigid vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes
• Category C allows you to drive rigid vehicles over 7.5 tonnes

You would then take a further test to allow you to drive vehicles with trailers (category C+E).

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

planning delivery schedules and routes with transport managers
• supervising or helping to load and unload goods
• making sure loads are safely secured
• following traffic reports and changing your route if necessary
• completing delivery paperwork and log books

You could work from a vehicle. Your working environment may be cramped and you'll travel often and spend nights away from home.