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What an HGV driver does
An HGV driver operates a heavy goods vehicle — such as a rigid or articulated lorry — to move freight between depots, suppliers, sites and customers. The role handles larger, heavier loads and often longer distances than lighter delivery work.
It calls for safe handling of a large vehicle, careful load management and disciplined record-keeping. An HGV driver is generally expected to hold a valid driving licence and a vocational entitlement appropriate to heavy goods vehicles in their jurisdiction, and to follow driving-hours and tachograph rules.
Core responsibilities
- Driving heavy goods vehicles safely and within driving-hours rules.
- Carrying out daily walkaround checks on the vehicle and trailer.
- Loading, securing and checking heavy or palletised freight.
- Coupling and uncoupling trailers where required.
- Recording journeys, hours and rest using a tachograph.
- Completing delivery paperwork and reporting defects or incidents.
Skills and qualities
- A valid driving licence and vocational entitlement for heavy goods vehicles in the jurisdiction.
- Confident, safe handling of large vehicles and manoeuvring.
- Strong awareness of load security and weight distribution.
- Discipline with driving-hours and tachograph records.
- Concentration and stamina over long journeys.
- Reliability and clear communication with the depot.
Typical employers and settings
- Haulage, freight and logistics companies.
- Distribution and supply-chain operations.
- Manufacturers and retailers with their own fleets.
- Construction, fuel and bulk-haulage operators.
- Driver-supply and recruitment agencies.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly or through driver agencies, with the entitlement checked up front.
- Screening confirms the licence category, vocational qualification and driving record.
- Interviews are practical and usually include a driving assessment.
- Employers commonly carry out medical and identity checks where required.
- Onboarding covers the vehicles, tachograph use, routes and depot procedures.
Documents involved
- A job description listing the vehicle type and entitlement required.
- Proof of a valid driving licence and heavy goods vehicle qualification.
- An employment contract or agency assignment terms.
- An offer letter confirming role, base and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- A safety induction and onboarding checklist.
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