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LGV drivers collect, transport and deliver goods in rigid vehicles over 7.5 tonnes, articulated lorries and lorries pulling trailers.

Main tasks

  • Undertakes minor repairs and notifies supervisor of any mechanical faults.
  • Maintains records of journey times, mileage and hours worked.
  • Drives vehicle to destination in accordance with schedule.
  • Assists with loading/unloading and ensures that load is evenly distributed and safely secured.
  • Agrees delivery schedule and route with transport management.
  • Drives vehicle from depot to loading/unloading point.
  • Checks tyres, brakes, lights, oil, water and fuel levels and general condition of the vehicle.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£52,767.52

Average earnings

£39,378.00

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Learning Strategies

Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Transportation

Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.

Public Safety and Security

Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 2 NVQ; GCSE at grades A*-C

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 9%
Level 1 30%
Level 2 32%
Level 3 21%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 4%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 4%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 0%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.