A heavy goods vehicle, or HGV, is an essential part of the business cycle because it helps transport large quantities of goods across great distances. HGV driving jobs depend heavily on the driver's willingness to be on the road and work for others. In addition, there are office-based supervisor roles and even independent options that function as a combination of a driver and a supervisor.
The most common HGV driving jobs are those of a truck driver or lorry driver. HGVs most commonly are found in Europe, so the driver must be familiar with the laws and routes associated with this continent. An HGV driver cannot simply use a regular driver's license to get a job but must take classes and apply for an HGV license to drive these trucks. After that license is obtained, a driver can get a job for a transportation firm, often transporting heavy and dangerous materials, such as chemicals or large pieces of construction equipment. This job often requires long driving distances and many solitary hours, so a driver must have an excellent ability to stay focused and alert.
A more stationary choice of HGV driving jobs is that of a supervisor with a transportation firm. This person normally has many years of driving experience and understands the demands of the job. His or her duty is to coordinate shipping schedules among clients, drivers and destinations. This person keeps in contact with all parties throughout the transportation process and handles any delays or problems that arise. The supervisor is an expert on the trucking industry and must pay attention to trends, such as technological advances, roadway restrictions, laws affecting HGVs, taxes and tariffs.
Another of the HGV driving jobs is that of an independent driver. This job combines many aspects of the standard HGV driver and the supervisor because the independent driver must act as both parties. An independent driver owns an HGV and contracts out his or her services to clients who need to have their goods transported. The independent driver must handle negotiations and contracts with clients, determine the most efficient travel route in advance, keep in close contact with the clients and destinations as well as deal with any problems that arise, such as mechanical difficulties. The reward for many independent drivers is the ability to be the bosses and make all of the professional decisions for their careers. The drawbacks of these independent HGV driving jobs are the lack of career security and perks such as sick days, paid vacation and retirement benefits.
