By Global Indeed 
The UK is facing a growing demand for Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers, making 2024 a promising year for those seeking truck driving jobs in the country. With the expansion of logistics and supply chains, there is a significant shortage of qualified drivers, and employers are looking abroad to fill these positions. Many UK companies are now offering visa sponsorship to attract international talent, making it easier for skilled HGV drivers to relocate and work in the UK.
If you’re an experienced truck driver considering job opportunities abroad, the UK’s need for HGV drivers could be your chance to secure a well-paying job with visa sponsorship.
Job details of HGV Truck Driver Jobs in the UK:
- Job title: Heavy Good Vehicles Truck Driver/ Truck Driver
- Job country: UK.
- Job Industry: Transport.
- Job Type: Full Time
- Experience Required: High
- Knowledge Required: Not High
- Age Limit: 18-onwards.
- Free Food: Mostly No.
- Free Accommodation: No.
- Free Medical Insurance: Mostly Yes.
- Free Transport: No.
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes/No.
- Salary: between £11-18
Why HGV Truck Driver Jobs in the UK Are in High Demand
The UK has been grappling with a shortage of HGV drivers for several years. This shortage became particularly acute after Brexit, which led to many EU drivers returning to their home countries, creating a gap in the labor market. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated supply chain issues, and the aging driver population added to the strain on the industry.
As a result, UK logistics companies are aggressively hiring international drivers, offering competitive salaries, benefits, and visa sponsorship to meet the growing demand.
What Does the Job of an HGV Truck Driver in the UK Involve?
As an HGV truck driver, you’ll be responsible for transporting goods across the country and possibly into neighboring countries, depending on the role. Some of the key duties and responsibilities include:
- Driving Long Distances: You’ll be tasked with transporting goods across regions or even internationally, often driving for several hours at a time.
- Loading and Unloading Cargo: Depending on the job, you may assist with the loading and unloading of goods, ensuring everything is secure and properly handled.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Performing routine checks on the vehicle, including tire pressure, oil levels, and general safety checks, is essential.
- Adhering to Driving Laws: Following UK driving laws, particularly regarding speed limits, driving hours, and rest breaks, is critical to maintaining safety on the road.
- Documentation and Logbooks: You’ll be responsible for maintaining accurate records of deliveries, vehicle inspections, and hours worked.
Most HGV driving roles require a strong understanding of logistics and the ability to plan efficient routes while adapting to potential delays or road closures.
Visa Sponsorship for HGV Truck Drivers
In response to the driver shortage, the UK government has implemented measures to attract foreign talent, making it easier for international drivers to secure work in the UK. Here’s how visa sponsorship works for HGV drivers:
- Skilled Worker Visa: The most common route for foreign HGV drivers is the Skilled Worker Visa. To qualify, you must have a job offer from a UK employer who is willing to sponsor your visa. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to five years, with the possibility of extension.
- Requirements: You’ll need a valid HGV driving license, proof of your skills and experience, and a clean driving record. Additionally, some basic English language skills are usually required to pass the visa application.
- Employer Sponsorship: Your employer will handle most of the visa application process, including providing documentation to prove that they are authorized to sponsor foreign workers.
- Benefits of Visa Sponsorship: Sponsored workers gain access to the same benefits as UK employees, including health care, paid leave, and pension contributions.
Requirements to Become an HGV Truck Driver in the UK
Before applying for HGV truck driving jobs in the UK, it’s essential to ensure you meet the basic requirements:
- HGV License: To work as a truck driver in the UK, you must hold a valid HGV license. If you’re applying from outside the UK, your existing HGV license may need to be converted or recognized under UK law. You’ll need either a Category C (rigid trucks) or Category C+E (articulated lorries) license, depending on the type of vehicle you’ll be driving.
- Driver CPC Qualification: In addition to an HGV license, you’ll need a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), which ensures that you’re qualified to drive a heavy vehicle safely.
- Medical Fitness: You’ll need to pass a medical exam to prove that you’re fit to drive long distances, including vision, hearing, and general health assessments.
- Driving Experience: Most UK employers prefer candidates with at least 1-2 years of HGV driving experience, especially those familiar with long-haul or international routes.
- Clean Driving Record: A clean driving record is crucial. Employers will check for any violations or incidents to ensure that you’re a safe and reliable driver.
Salary and Benefits for HGV Truck Drivers in the UK
HGV drivers in the UK are well compensated, especially given the current shortage of qualified drivers. The salary and benefits you can expect include:
- Competitive Pay: The average salary for an HGV driver in the UK ranges from £30,000 to £40,000 per year, with some positions offering even higher wages for experienced drivers or those handling longer routes.
- Overtime Pay: Many driving roles offer additional pay for overtime, night shifts, and weekend work, allowing you to increase your earnings.
- Health and Pension Benefits: With visa sponsorship, foreign workers are entitled to the same benefits as UK citizens, including access to the National Health Service (NHS), paid holidays, and pension contributions.
- Bonuses and Perks: Some employers may offer signing bonuses, retention bonuses, or additional perks such as meal allowances, travel reimbursements, and accommodation for long-haul drivers.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Working as an HGV truck driver in the UK offers opportunities for career growth. Once you’ve established yourself as a reliable driver, you can explore options such as:
- Becoming a Trainer or Instructor: After gaining several years of experience, you can transition into training new drivers or even becoming an instructor for Driver CPC courses.
- Advancing to Supervisor Roles: Many logistics companies promote experienced drivers to supervisory or fleet management positions, overseeing other drivers and coordinating logistics operations.
- International Routes: If you’re interested in long-haul trucking, you may have the opportunity to drive routes across Europe or even farther, depending on your employer’s operations.
How to Apply for HGV Truck Driver Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship
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