Today’s commercial driving jobs are more challenging than ever. New technologies and safety regulations have closed the gap between independent and team drivers, so getting hired now requires an entirely different skill set. Instead of getting a job based on your previous experience as a truck driver, you need to prove that you can safely operate a tractor-trailer and meet other screening criteria. If you want to get hired as a team driver or remain competitive in the hiring market, investing in HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) training makes perfect sense. It doesn’t matter if you’re switching from another type of commercial driving job or coming back to it after some time away; taking the time to learn new skills will pay off in the long run.
HGV Basics
When it comes to commercial driving, the term “heavy goods vehicle” refers to any truck or tractor-trailer weighing over 10,000 pounds. There are different types of heavy trucking jobs, such as long-haul, local, or specialized hauling, but all require drivers to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL). HGV drivers must transport goods that are too heavy, unwieldy, or uneconomical to transport by other means. This could be anything from car parts to livestock and food products. These drivers typically operate a tractor-trailer combination, although they may drive an empty trailer in some circumstances.
Licensing and Certification Requirements
When you’re switching over from another commercial driving job, you don’t need to worry about additional licensing. If you’re new to commercial driving, you’ll need a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This varies with state regulations but is typically available after completing an HGV licence training for drivers. If you have a commercial driver’s license and are switching to an HGV job, you’ll be required to take a skills test. This varies with state regulations, so check with your local DMV for details.
HGV Training Benefits
One of the main benefits of investing in HGV training is preparing yourself for the screening process. Whether you’re applying for a job as a team or solo driver, you will face an assessment. Employers want to see that you have a strong grasp of modern commercial driving techniques and safety regulations. HGV training will give you an edge when it comes to screening. You’ll already be familiar with the requirements and screening standards. Plus, you’ll already know the areas where you might need some brushing up. Another benefit of HGV training is that it will expand your network. You’re likely to meet other people in the same field, and forming professional connections is never bad. You may also be able to help each other out by giving advice or introducing one another to potential employers.
Additional Skills to Develop
HGV training will also help you develop additional skills that are important to all commercial drivers. These include: Knowing how to read a traffic control sign, Knowing how to properly use your vehicle’s signals, Knowing your state’s driving laws and knowing how to navigate a large vehicle through tight spaces When you’re driving a commercial vehicle, there are many more rules and regulations to follow. In addition to following state laws, you must follow federal regulations like hours of service (HOS). You’ll be expected to adhere to these safety and regulation standards as part of your job. You’ll also be expected to take training and retraining seriously. Your employer will want you to be up to date and prepared for any situation.
You get to travel a lot as an HGV driver
Commercial driving is a great career choice if you love exploring and seeing new places. You’ll get to visit all sorts of destinations, and you don’t have to commit to a specific location or employer. When driving for a freight company, you’ll have a set schedule, but you may have the opportunity to choose what routes you want to take. Depending on your company, you may have the opportunity to take on long-distance drives, making this a great career choice for people who love to travel. If you drive for a company that regularly services customers all over the country or even internationally, you’ll get to see a whole lot more than you would if you worked for a local retailer.
Final Words
Driving a commercial truck can be a great career choice for those who like adventure and have the right qualifications. You’ll need to get your commercial driver’s license (CDL) and complete HGV training. HGV training will help you learn the basics of commercial truck driving and meet the screening standards employers look for in new hires. Commercial driving can be a great choice for those who like adventure and have the right qualifications. You’ll need to get your commercial driver’s license (CDL) and complete HGV training. HGV training will help you learn the basics of commercial truck driving and meet the screening standards employers look for in new hires.
