Starting Salaries for New Drivers
For those who’ve recently earned their HGV licence, entry-level roles are offering salaries between £22,000 and £26,000 a year. These are typically local or regional delivery roles with more regular hours and less demanding routes. While the pay may start modestly, it increases fairly quickly with experience and additional training.
Earnings with Experience
Once you’ve got a year or two behind the wheel, your value in the job market rises. Experienced drivers are now seeing average salaries around £34,000 to £36,000, depending on the company and the type of goods transported. Drivers with consistent records and flexible availability often command even more.
Specialist Driving Roles
If you’re willing to train further and move into specialised sectors, such as transporting hazardous goods or operating in construction logistics, the salary potential increases significantly. It’s not uncommon to see earnings between £50,000 and £80,000 for these roles. These positions usually require additional certifications, but we offer tailored training programs to help drivers qualify for them.
Regional Pay Variations
Where you work also plays a big part in how much you’ll earn. In areas like Greater London, the average salary for HGV drivers can reach up to £42,000, thanks to the higher cost of living and increased demand. In the West Midlands and the North West, salaries are also competitive, hovering around £39,000 to £40,500 on average.
Type of Driving Affects Salary
Not all HGV jobs are the same. Long-haul drivers, especially those taking on national or international routes, can earn between £42,000 and £50,000. These jobs often come with nights away from home, but they’re well-compensated. Regional and local deliveries offer a bit more routine and home time, with salaries ranging from £28,000 to £42,000 depending on the route complexity and hours.
Shift Work and Bonuses
Night shifts and weekend hours generally come with premium pay. For example, night drivers can earn around £32,500 per year. Many companies also offer performance bonuses, overtime rates, and night-out allowances for meals and accommodation. These extras can significantly boost your take-home pay, especially if you’re working a full schedule.
Why the Industry Still Needs Drivers
Despite rising wages, the industry continues to face a shortage of qualified drivers. Factors like an aging workforce, increased demand due to e-commerce, and the impact of Brexit on the labour market mean that skilled HGV drivers are in high demand. That’s good news for those entering the field now.
A Smart Career Move
At Commercial Transport Training, we believe HGV driving is one of the most reliable and rewarding career paths available in 2025. With the right training and support, drivers can build long-term careers with strong earning potential and job stability. Whether you want to drive locally or move into specialist logistics, we’re here to help you get there.
If you’re ready to take the next step, get in touch with our team here. We'll guide you through the licensing process, training options, and help position you for the best opportunities the industry has to offer.