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What a lorry driver does
A lorry driver moves freight by road in a rigid or articulated lorry between depots, suppliers, sites and customers, planning the run, managing the load and delivering goods in good order. The role keeps goods flowing across regional and national networks.
It combines safe driving of a large vehicle with careful load handling and accurate record-keeping. A lorry driver is generally expected to hold a valid driving licence and a vocational entitlement appropriate to the vehicle and jurisdiction, and to follow driving-hours and rest rules.
Core responsibilities
- Driving safely and within driving-hours and rest regulations.
- Carrying out daily walkaround checks on the vehicle and trailer.
- Loading, securing and checking freight for transport.
- Coupling and uncoupling trailers where required.
- Recording hours and journeys using a tachograph.
- Completing delivery paperwork and reporting defects or delays.
Skills and qualities
- A valid driving licence and vocational entitlement appropriate to the vehicle and jurisdiction.
- Confident, safe handling and manoeuvring of large vehicles.
- 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 wholesalers with their own fleets.
- Construction, agriculture 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, 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 vocational 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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