The working hours and days of the HGV driver may vary from the usual working hours. Indeed, he may be required to work weekends, public holidays, at night and his activity involves being away from home for several days.
As part of his activities outside of driving, the HGV driver may be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety shoes and fluorescent safety vests.
What is the working environment of a heavy goods vehicle driver in road transport?
The job of HGV driver is carried out in different structures, such as road transport companies, industrial companies, vehicle rental companies, drilling/extraction companies, manufacturing industries or service companies.
Many sectors of activity are recruiting HGV drivers, such as the transport, logistics, wholesale, construction and public works (BTP), agriculture, trade and mass distribution sectors.
“It’s been 7 years now since I reoriented myself towards the profession of HGV driver. This profession attracted me because it is a sector that I like with a certain job security, due to the hiring opportunities. Today, I work in a small company specializing in the transport of goods and I like it, I like what I do.”
To work as a truck driver, you must have a C driving license, but that is not enough. There are different training courses available, namely a professional road driver qualification, a CAP road driver, a BEP driving and services in road transport, a professional Baccalaureate in road transport driver and a FIMO goods (Mandatory Minimum Initial Training).
What are the possible career paths for a heavy goods vehicle driver?
There are some possible career paths for a HGV driver, such as moving towards an administrative or commercial job within a transport company. Many HGV drivers become trainers in the transport sector in order to share their knowledge and experience of the profession.
What is the average salary of a heavy goods vehicle driver?
The salary of a HGV driver depends on many criteria (experience, company size, working conditions, etc.) but on average, the starting salary of a HGV driver is around €1,800 gross per month, or €21,600 gross per year. This can increase with the addition of bonuses or other criteria. The median salary of an experienced driver is approximately equivalent to a salary of €1,900 gross per month, or around €23,000 gross per year.
