The Current Situation
The simple answer is yes – HGV drivers remain in high demand across the UK. In recent years, however, the landscape has seen significant changes, leading to a well-documented driver shortage that has been a challenge for many logistics companies. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit-related regulations, and an ageing workforce have contributed to a shortfall in qualified HGV drivers, which still persists today.
Brexit and the Driver Shortage
Brexit has had a notable impact on the availability of HGV drivers. Many European drivers who previously worked in the UK have returned to their home countries, either due to visa complications or a lack of certainty surrounding their status in the UK. This has led to a gap in the labour market, which the industry has been working hard to fill.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The pandemic highlighted the essential nature of HGV drivers in the supply chain. From delivering food to supermarkets to transporting medical supplies, the role of the HGV driver became even more critical. However, training and recruitment were disrupted during lockdowns, worsening the existing driver shortage. As the economy rebounds, demand for drivers has spiked, putting even more pressure on the industry to fill vacancies.
Increased Wages and Incentives
With fewer drivers available, wages have risen, and many logistics companies are offering attractive incentives to recruit new drivers. For those looking to start a career as an HGV driver, this means now is an excellent time to enter the profession. The average wage for HGV drivers has increased significantly (with the median hourly wage being £15.00 in 2023), with some companies offering bonuses, flexible working patterns, and even paid training programmes. For those considering a career change, these improvements make HGV driving a much more appealing prospect than in previous years.
Opportunities for New Drivers
If you’re thinking about starting a career in HGV driving, there has never been a better time to get qualified. The demand for drivers isn’t going away anytime soon, and the shortage means there are plenty of job opportunities across the UK. From long-haul to regional and local driving positions, the variety of roles is extensive.
Training to become an HGV driver can be a relatively quick process, especially if you train with a reputable company like Commercial Transport Training Ltd. With professional instructors and modern vehicles, our courses ensure you’ll gain the confidence and skills you need to pass your test and hit the road.
Start Your HGV Training Today With Commercial Transport Training
If you’re ready to embark on a stable and rewarding career, HGV driving is an excellent option. At Commercial Transport Training Ltd, we offer a wide range of training courses, including HGV. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to upskill, our professional team is here to support you every step of the way. With the ongoing demand for qualified drivers, there's never been a better time to get started. For more information, please give us a call today on 01525 370 862. We also have an online enquiry form that you can complete, and a member of our team will be in touch with you as soon as possible.