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PROS & CONS of HGV driving for beginners.
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- Опубліковано 10 кві 2022
- Talking about the pros & cons of the industry on my way up to luton.
www.truckitprayle.com
#hgv #lorry #truck #vlog #driving #hgvdriver #44tonearmy #newdriver #hgvbegginer #prosandcons #uktrucker #luton #
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Speaking as an operator who only occasionally drives a truck (often one with a fault to the dealer garage), one of the biggest downsides with modern trucks compared with the ones I (occasionally) drove when I first passed my test is the number of annoying/distracting alarms and warning sounds you get from the trucks, and how trivial some of the reasons for those warnings turn out to be. A time comes where you just don't hear them anymore, which defeats the point of having them.
The best bit about the HGV sector is your colleagues out on the road with you, they're all interesting people.
I am currently looking at switching careers and lorry driver is high up on my list of options. Ive spent over ten years working in retail security jobs, near minimum wage, treated badly, always have someone looking over your shoulder. The freedom driving could give me is really appealing. Long hours not an issue either as ive spent 8 years doing 12 hour shifts on my feet in the same building. The only thing to consider is the best way to go about training. I need to talk to local training providers. Videos like this are proving to be a great help.
Im glad it helped you, if you need Any advice or tips just let me know. Good luck 👍
Hi mate Ask at the job center to see if you can get on the course, they’re giving funding for the training that’s what I did, although if your working you may not be eligible, still worth an ask though 👍 @bjb
@@nathanroberts7693 are they still doing that do you know? im self employed and work in construction as a steel fixer - im fed up of it now - i leave the house at 6am, get to work at about 7.15am start work at 7.30am until usually about 5pm (get two 30 minute breaks during that shift) and then have to travel home and i get home sometimes around 5.45 most of the time its about 6.15/6.20 - there are days where you get "early darts" so you get paid the shift and are home by like 3pm but they are few and far between realistically.
The money is decent talking about £20-£23 an hour but you dont get paid for any travelling time and you dont get paid for one of your breaks so usually you take about 9 hours pay home... working in every weather going could be rain all day, baking hot sun, windy and rain you get the picture.
Im keen to know what actual working hours they tend to do in driving trucks, how much do they earn per hour? is it better to be self employed with say stobarts for a while on a 0 hour contract and pick your work that way or just be employed. Also keen to know say how much do trampers earn compared to the drivers who dont tramp? seen a few drivers were you can tramp for say 2 or 3 nights a week instead of 5 or do like 2 nights out one back and another 2 out etc.
@@truckitprayle im self employed and work in construction as a steel fixer - im fed up of it now - i leave the house at 6am, get to work at about 7.15am start work at 7.30am until usually about 5pm (get two 30 minute breaks during that shift) and then have to travel home and i get home sometimes around 5.45 most of the time its about 6.15/6.20 - there are days where you get "early darts" so you get paid the shift and are home by like 3pm but they are few and far between realistically.
The money is decent talking about £20-£23 an hour but you dont get paid for any travelling time and you dont get paid for one of your breaks so usually you take about 9 hours pay home... working in every weather going could be rain all day, baking hot sun, windy and rain you get the picture.
Im keen to know what actual working hours they tend to do in driving trucks, how much do they earn per hour? is it better to be self employed with say stobarts for a while on a 0 hour contract and pick your work that way or just be employed. Also keen to know say how much do trampers earn compared to the drivers who dont tramp? seen a few drivers were you can tramp for say 2 or 3 nights a week instead of 5 or do like 2 nights out one back and another 2 out etc.
I live in widnes so there are a lot of truck depots around me now - especially in warrington and stobarts has a base in widnes too, im realistically out the house from 6am and dont get back until 6pm and get paid for 9 hours. Im 37 now, consider myself a very decent driver - i enjoy driving i suppose too my hobby is riding motorbikes or before that was performance cars - i dont wanna be on a building site forever killing myself in boiling hot and freezing cold weather if that makes sense.. another problem is the work, it can be hit and miss sometimes you are on a job for 5 months but then could be out of work for a month earning nothing, is it like that in trucking or are you constantly in work? take this past couple of months for instance - i finished at job start of november, was out of work for 3 weeks then managed to pick up a job for 3 weeks that took me up to just before xmas and now was off two weeks over xmas and am still off until another job starts probably in about 2 weeks so thats about 4 or 5 weeks with nothing coming in.
@@s1dew1nd3r4 yeah I think so mate it’s worth an ask, pay varies, on many things but I’d defo so it’s was the best choice I made
I am 44 and got my class 1 in November 2007. I then got my ADR in packages and tanks shortly after. I never had the chance to use my ADR and although I renewed it in 2013, I never renewed it a second time.
At the end of 2017, I did class 2 work for Palmer and Harvey until they went bust.
In October 2021, I did class 1 work with Ferry Speed which was night trunking. I lasted a week because they treated the staff like rubbish and the pay was £12.22 per hour.
I was a bus driver from the age of 21 and did that on and off for 20 years and finally left bus driving bfore I did the week at Ferry Speed. Bus driving is also a rubbish job. It is safe to say I am sick to death of driving and even try to avoid it in my spare time.
The cons of the job as an HGV driver is car drivers don't realise the size of the HGV and can be impatient. Also the lack of facilities for drivers and the crowded roads. Many people I knew preferred to do continental work.
About being away from your family it applies to any job where you want to earn a decent pay. I'm currently working for the NHS in nursing and I have to do 16-18 nights a month, being away from home for 14 hours a day, just to earn a decent pay. I got fed up with it, the way our lovely government treated us during covid and after and the massive staff shortages made me hate my job. I'm training at the moment as a class 1 driver and can't wait to wave them goodbye and start the new job.
So you are heading a call basically. It’s been made clear there’s a shortage and pay was good. Too many people could get into it since the barrier to entry is somewhat low.
But a nurse doesn’t work 7 days a week 14 hours a day but only 3 days a week I was told = 42 hours
Hi Rob, your post was 7 months ago and you said you were training for Class 1. I am looking at doing this also because of the long distance driving and good pay. Can I ask what you are doing now and how it worked out for you? Thanks
@Matt did the training, managed to pass it first time lol and since then I've been working as a class 1 driver, the company is not the best and it's quite a commute from where I live but I'm getting the experience I need so can't really complain too much. But the job itself, I love it, I'm not going every day to work hating being there like I used to in my previous job haha.
@@robertyny092 Hey thats great! Can I ask what you are transporting? Your days/hours? Is the pay good?
Great video 👍
I start my car to class 1 course in 8 weeks time!
Your videos are enjoyable and helpful so thanks, appreciated.
Im glad you enjoy them, good luck with it mate feel free to ask if you have any questions!
IV been doing 12hr shifts night shift for 23 years in a office .I do have my cat D .. but going for my class1 c&e 5 day training from 7th November.. so looking forward to the challenge.
Good luck fella!
I’ve recently left a job I wasn’t enjoying and weighing up my options of what to do next, HGV driving is becoming more and more appealing, as I enjoy being out on the road and I’m so done with people 😂
I’ve spent the last 20+yrs doing taxi and bus driving.
Recently I’ve worked in warehouses and just can’t get on with working with others. Nearly everyone was fine but I’m a miserable git and don’t want to pretend to be happy!!. That’s why bus and taxi drivers look miserable.
I’d give hgv a go if I was younger and wanted to be out overnight etc. I’m sort of over that now though.
Get qualified and give it a go. It’s another skill that pays the bills and you can take it anywhere 😃👍
went from car to artic in feb started working at stobarts 3 weeks ago and im loving it i went straight onto nights less traffic and i never get hounded ok pay aswell great experience so far
I thought that the salary wasn't great there, can you quote your pay scale please? Good luck with the job.
Nice one mate i heard they have a new pay structure now and also have been taken over by culina if i remember right?
Culina have bought them yes and pay from my opinion is pretty good easy work too, i would of cleared 650+ for a total of 54 hours for that week but emergency tax... i dont know whether thats good or bad im new to all this so im just getting my experience
Nightly rate is 13.50 meal allowance £15 a shift and a weekly tier bonus of 25 a week saturdays are 16.50 and sundays 16.50 dont quote me tho im pretty sure thats right
@@origins800 £13.50 to drive a class 1 at night?? You're a mug
just passed my class 1 licence a few months ago and done it straight from a car licence. My 1st driving job will probably be with a fuel company delivering different types of fuel in a tanker as they offer to put me through my ADR and offer training. Although it's the reason I got my class 1 licence I am still really worried about reversing. Learning to reverse for the test was easy as it's just an S shape however being out on the roads or at distribution centres it's very different and never reversed a trailer onto a bay before. Working long hours is something I am very used to and not much difference between my current salary and being a driver but do want to get away from being in management and get on the road so people won't annoy me as much throughout the day that's the reason I want to go driving. But I have some big worries about the whole reversing thing :/
I shouldn't imagine fuel tankers would be so bad as most places you go will be drive in drive out the only place you will really do much reversing is parking at the yard and services for breaks, however both these places have lots of space, so just take your time.
First 2 weeks reversing is a nervous experience but after that you begin to learn how your vehicle works and it all becomes very natural.
With that said i have not done tanker work myself so i can't be a 100% certain on all of this but I would say its not a bad one compared to some of the places i have to go if you check out some of my other stuff
Hope this helps!.
I'm hoping to do the same as you licence wise, and for the same reasons, i work a highly stressful office job for not a lot of money. I like driving and like my own space and some peace and quiet so i think it would be great for me. You managed to get a job driving yet?
You think your going to get a fuel tanker job straight new pass class 1 LOL dream on
Really? A new pass fuel tanker driver? Are you sure about that?
@@Matt-wr9cc it's true mate, through an armed forces charity they take new pass drivers and put them through a 6 week training course. No dreaming about it. My ADR course starts 14th November.
I am 29 years HGV, I work on container transport, for the last 9 months absolutely love my job, yes hours can be long, but I work through the night. Bloody roadworks is my only gripe. Pay is good & brand new units!!
I tried nights before and the road closures was a big no for me especially as i was pulling a double decker, was a little stressful lol
hi just been watching your pro and cons on being a HGV driver, I have recently passed my C&E test and I have a couple of job assessments this week so x fingers I'll get through at least one of them, my only issue will be the reversing to be honest they just train you on a fairly simple way. thanks again Anthony
Yeah its everyones fear when you first pass but like anything just take your time and you will be a natural in no time, just try not to over think it mate!
Don't be afraid to ask another driver for assistance tell them you are new most will watch you back in or on a bay
What are the theory tests like?
Pretty much what you said , money and been your own boss. Cons , planning is never done right and often having to work 15 hour days which means you get stuck out for the night unplanned. The respect you get from companies you deliver too isn’t the greatest, they are not willing to work with you and the way they talk to you some times is like you are being an inconvenience to them. Services ! M4 service’s not bad , reading m3 , Cairn lodge b7078 is the best absolutely spotless.. other than that everything else is not great. Would I change the job na , as the job security is there and if you don’t like a place you can have a job within a week with out having difficulty interviews. You don’t have to deal with drama in the office and people that pee you off.
Thats it mate, just gotta take the rough with the smooth!
@Superfluous just do what’s right for you and don’t listen to anyone. What you see as a good job someone else doesn’t. There’s been a lot of changes on the industry and lots of drivers are starting to move around to get the right fit for them and conditions. It’s a good job and you will enjoy it. The first year getting experience can be shit but once that’s over with it’s all good
Today I’ve started the process of becoming a hgv driver and have my medical in a few weeks time! Excited and nervous ☺️ thanks for the insight
Wahey! Best of luck mate, let us know how you get on!
Funny enough I start at EBS next Tuesday 😂 watching your videos has helped me think I have made a good choice into becoming a HGV driver!
Thank you!
Haha nice one welcome on board matey if you need any help just give us a shout!
Spot on! We need a pay rise and better planning as sometime some of the yards you go arent meant for Artics . Great video Mr Prayle!
Thanks mate, and aint that the truth!
I love poor planning, that’s how I earn a crust 😉😜
Aint we all 😂
At least when you try to get in and out of a small yard, it gives the suzies and air lines a good test. #jackknife
I go back to 06/03/82. Got my ticket. Driven most, Europe and UK. The job is Sh**e to what it used to be. VOSA? Mobile Phones? Deadlines? Traffic? Now, you can get done for reading a map whilst driving? Lucky enough to take early retirement and am loving it. Anyone new to the job will take it as the norm. I hope it doesn't get even worse for you guys.
Yeah alot has changed over the years mate, and fair play reading a map whilst driving.
There a reason thats illegal though, and i can confidentiality say id die if i tried reading a map whilst driving haha 😄
@@truckitprayle how do you think we got about? Proud to say I've never used a sat nav. To all newbies, if you do, you'll never learn the roads. Check the route out before setting off. If need be, make notes. Don't rely on an arrow pointing upwards. Is that north or what. ? Good luck.😁
Hats off to ya mate but i will stick with my technology hahaha.
I live in Luton and know exactly where you had to deliver to, so right on People in Luton not indicating at roundabouts, Great video !!
It's almost as bad as london 😅
@@truckitprayle I drive in London as well as a Private Hire Driver, and God forgive you if you get in the wrong lane, Euston Road between Regents Park and King's Cross /St. Pancras being the worst stretch, keep well and stay safe
Awesome video I am a tramper and the money is awesome. The job is so exciting and rewarding but I feel that not is enough is done to encourage younger people to get into HGV driving
Cheers fella and yeah your right mate
The youngsters are probably put off by the news reports about facilities etc, and tbh I’m a tramper but I wouldn’t encourage my own kids to do it
That’s a life not a job no good if have a family at home
@@neilstewart2036 yep
I didn't like doing days when I started out as a class 1 driver so went tramping and absolutely love it. I definatly get more rest because I'm not going back to the yard and commuting back home every night, plus the moneys better tramping. I prep all my own food at home, now and again I'll use the truck stops, you can get a meal cheap enough from them. Like you said the prices are shocking at the services so give them a wide berth. Were here to earn and not burn our money after all. My old job I was watching the clock go round all day really boring, lorry driving your chasing the clock, the time flys. Good video pal
Yeah when the girls are older and the misses hates me i might consider tramping 🤣 but for now im needed at home.
Yea if you've got a young family maybe tramping not good idea. My daughters 20 and the Mrs is fine with it. I just miss my dog that's all 😆
Same plan, I can't wait to finish my job in the next two yrs (awaiting redundancy til then) and getting the C+E done by the end of this year to work agency on my off days to build up my experience.
Haven't got any nippers so tramping is what sounds enticing to me, just prepping in the build up ATM and doing things in parts one step at a time.
Well that's the plan!
im 21 and looking at hgv as i have electrical installation lvl 3 and i cant get any job for it, so next best option for best pay is driving
Hi mate, I drive an artic with a curtainsider like you and - although the money is all right, the hours are far too long. Also I am gone most of the week and return fridays to see my family for the weekend. You're right about the fact that you get to see new places every day. However, most times I spend on the Autobahn. I do try to find those lovely, quiet places, preferably near lakes or rivers to spend the night. This requires a bit of research beforehand (on google maps). I don't know what it is like in the UK but here in Germany we have massive problems with gangs going around service areas at night, cutting open curtains to peek inside or even steal your diesel. Anyways - I liked your video very much and hope you keep up the good work.
Gangs of... what?
I was based in Germany for 6 years. My memory was of going to massive nightclubs, and seeing uni students sat with their laptops and a coffee doing coursework.
So, gangs of what? Go on... you can say it.
@@digitalradiohacker I don't know what you're on about. Coffee drinking students in nightclubs? Nothing you said relates to what I was writing.
@@hssh8698
Sure it does.
You mentioned gangs cutting open curtains.
I was alluding to the fact that they are hardly likely to be German, because that simply wasn't my experience of German culture. I gave ONE example of what I saw.
The gang thing - it's imported.
@@digitalradiohackerSo you're saying your experience of German night clubs and students with coffee and laptops negates that there are gangs in Germany who go to service stations to cut open Lorry/Trucks curtains to steal stuff? Do you know how stupid you sound?! 😂
I passed my Cat C last June and my CE last September.
Like most newly qualified drivers, it was really difficult to find an employer. I went with a national agency and found work within a couple of days. When I passed my CE, I signed up with a large firm within a fortnight. I'm pretty convinced that the 3 months of Cat C and the fact I had a mate working for the company sealed the deal. The work is incredibly easy - moving shipping containers. About the most strenuous part of the job is keeping on top of all the paperwork. I do like tramping and do it as often as possible. The extra allowances for sleeping in the cab overnight are worth it to me. Compared to minimum wage, the hourly rate is pretty good. We would all like a bit more. I was able to get a shift pattern that really suited me. However, the planning was dire. Management regard drivers as disposable. One little mistake and you're out. Thankfully I have been lucky. Services are generally a joke. The company I work for has a SNAP account, and this means I don't have to fork out for parking and then reclaim it. Some companies make you claim it back. The biggest tips I can offer for new trampers is to get parked up before 6:00pm and park as far away from reefers (refridgerated units) as it possible. They are really noisy. As for extra qualifications such as ADR and ALLMI (mounted cranes), I wouldn't bother at first unless you have a cast iron promise of a job. Get some experience, find out what you like and don't like, then go for the ADR. The extra you get paid for ADR work will soon cover the money spent and most companies will cover the training updates.
Do they test your eyes on day of test ?
@@Sk6088 I wasn't asked anything about my eyesight at the test but I was tested during my medical.
@@raymondpenn1066 do they not ask you to read a number plate like they do on your car test?
@@Sk6088 Nope. There's no need as your eyesight has been checked by a doctor prior to your provisional entitlement being granted. It is checked every time you need a medical to renew your licence. You are also obliged in law to notify the DVLA if your eyesight deteriorates to below the minimum standard required for LGV or PSV categories.
@@raymondpenn1066 do they ask about your sight when you they are training you?
Ive got my HGV lessons and test in a month and since I’m a farmer I can already reverse a trailer well, the main problem Ive found so far is the changed pivot point on a lorry and not having a rear window but im still confident I can pass
Yeah you will be fine mate, im sure you will smash it!
Hi. Great video especially for someone like me looking to get my licence and possibly drive. I'm a driving instructor already so I totally get your frustration with no indication 😂 I just gotta make sure it's worth it and it pays its way for me.
Haha yeah my pet peeve, it takes so long to pull away in a loaded truck and no one wants to let you know what they are doing..
I think its worth it mate, Don't get me wrong the first couple years will be hard in terms of opportunities but once you have some experience the worlds your oyster.
You know straight away if u like doing this or not, there's lots of waiting about... yes the hours do creep up... Cruise control on a dual carriagway or motorways is a must for truck driving , class 1 here.. .
Natural talking very good 👍🏻 video about the job and in-depth view life of a Lgv driver .
Keep up the good work .
Good luck
What do HGV drivers do about food? I try to have a healthy diet, and not eat too much crap. It’s the only thing that puts me off this as a career. I don’t like the idea of having to have Greggs/chippy etc every day when I m on the road.
Thats a very good question, and alot of trruckers do just eat crap, but there are other ways. Im currently working on a video all about this so watch this space!
I'm 16 and wouldn't mind being a hgv driver. Only thing is Im still a year away from driving lessons and haven't a clue whether Id be good at driving, especially large vehicles. But still like the idea of it.
Best advice i can give ypu is get on the vans first get some experience on the roads and when you are around 20 go for your hgv licence mate.
How's Gary , Craig and Lester...worked for them before it was EBS it was child's commercials back in the day.
Not to sure mate, i left there about year ago.
Heard they made a lot of redundancies recently so thats not good.
Found your channel by randomly searching for HGV courses in the UK and I'm already your fan :). I am seriously considering taking that course this year. Have worked for years behind a desk standing all kind of stress you can imagine. Now I wanna try something different. Love driving and knowing new places. Would you say it's currently difficult to get the first job in the UK once you get the license? I'm aiming long hauls.
Hey mate, yeah its pretty tough out there at the minute but it will depend on what area you live in mostly, for example there is alot of work in thurrock near me at the minute.
And if you are willing to suffer the first 6 months at any job just to get some experience, then after you should find it pretty easy to get work!
Best of luck let me know how you get on if you make the decision, i don't think you will regret it!
@@truckitprayleCheers mate. Thanks for the tips! I’ll keep you posted!
Followed you because of your post on the class 2 page on fb. Awesome stuff. The editing at the start messed with my eyes a bit but everything else was spot on
Haha yeah sorry about that mate! 😅
And thank you for the sub!
The extra money earned whilst tramping per week makes a significant difference at the end of the month
Great Videos mate.... think you helped me tp take the plunge and pay for my Class C tuition......It's now underway, just had the Medical, got the Provisional....next step is the Theory. Can't wait to start the Practical and the end goal is to drive the Big Boys. (Class 1)...Keep the videos coming and thanks.
Glad it helped mate best of luck!
Hey man don’t know if you’re still picking up questions on this but no harm trying - I’m a single dad up in Scotland had my own business past few years but struggled and considering getting my HGV. Got a quarry nearby and apparently they’re always looking for drivers but I’d also consider long distance and tramping. Kinda lost purpose now my sons 19 and doesn’t need me if that makes sense. Decent money is a plus. Interesting video anyway cheers 👍
Id say you are every transport companys wet dream haha
Its an amazing way to earn money and a great way to meet people or avoid people if you so choose.
It's never to late aslong as your eyesights good just ho for it!
@@truckitprayle who said that? Haha nah all good there. Cheers I think I will.
I cant wait to be a lorry driver my grandpa is and i want to aswell.
It's normally about 1 week to gain each of your entitlement if you progress well and pass 1st Time but could be longer done my tests 20 years ago was difficult back then the assessor's were quite strict for good reason a word of warning there are very very few good employers in this industry took me nearly 20 years to find one stay well clear of the supermarkets there all awful general haulage is the same best to get in with a manufacturer own haulage fleet somewhere your not having to chase your arse but anywhere you go expect long antisocial hours
Being a HGV driver would be a massive step up for me, currently drive 10 hours a day, manual handling over 6t a day, often upstairs, no break all for 9.80 a hr.
Yeah mate HGV driving would be a dream for sure!
Go get it done mate don't let anything hold you back!
Thank you - very useful video. 👍
Coming from the army into this, surly this is a lush life. I don’t get to see my family mon-fri, occasionally months. So getting home every night even if it’s late .. it’s great? And being on £1700 a month to possibly £3000. It’s a no brainier? What you think mate
I think the PROS definitely out way the CONS mate for sure
@@truckitprayle if I get c+e, adr, cpc, in the army, do you think it’s likely to get a tanker job straight away? Or do you think I’d have to get a few delivery jobs first? I heard that tanker driving is more “it’s not what you know it’s who you know” ?
Cheers mate
how long you been in and what reg are you coming out from?
There are good and bad jobs. For me the biggest con is the hours you'll be expected to work, especially when many firms have a flat or negligible overtime rates. Another con is narcolepsy inducing drivers that you meet that have to tell you every last detail about where they've been today and all the problems they've had.
Pros..... you'll be in demand. The hours add up to money. It's less boring than an office/ factory/ warehouse.
Cons..... the way you are treated by employers, customers etc is not always great. In this game you're a number, a unit of driverdom. Expect little more than this.
Im 23 and have been driving a car for 5 years and have been driving a sprinter for work, looking to become a hgv driver and get on better wages
Go for it mate, i also drove a sprinter before becoming a hgv driver. 👍
Currently doing my C+E lessons, the amount of times I’ve failed hypothetical tests due to people not Indicating on roundabouts is unfair. My road rage is getting quite bad now. I’m alright on tests, I make sure the examiners can’t hear me. But if 1 more person cuts me up, I’ll take out their back tyre and take them for a ride
This is something you need to get used to im afraid theres so many out there that can't drive.
If someone else is on the roundabout you must give way whether they're indicating or not. They might even be indicating to come off but if you pull out and cause a hazard or an accident its your fault.
One word: blockers!
You need to be more zen. People generally not that good at driving but… just got to let it be, can’t do anything about it.
7 hours a day as a teacher and 3 months off....and get to tell everyone what to do..ha ha..
I am a truck driver, love it tho
Would I be right in thinking that most class 2 jobs seem more attractive ? Monday to Friday mornings to afternoon. Evenings to yourself and sleeping in your own bed and the hourly rate doesn't seem all that different when you factor in the driving time.
All depends alot of class 2 jobs are multidrop and thats why some prefer class 1 work.
I've started my course for HGV driver, and by this moment passed most of exams on high marks, and waiting till my first training behind the steering wheel.
Thanks, for a easy to understand video!
Wish you all the best and only safe journeys.
Thanks bro 🙏
For example if you finish your shift and you have to park up as you have driven the maximum hours for the day. Can you then park up in a layby or carpark and leave your truck to go to a gym etc?
Its your time as long as you are not moving that truck do what you like within reason.
Thank you mate am currently taking my theory and hope to be on road soon 🚚🚛.
Good luck buddy!
How's it going? Did you pass and find work?
@@MidLoafCrisis I've passed my theory and my reverse test put I need to rebook actual test as I failed my first in the last 10 mins of my test the trailer went over a kirb instant fail I was gutted but am not going to give up.
Just passed my class 1 after being a bus driver for 2 years can’t wait to try something new instead of driving the same road everyday doing 7 days in a row
Good luck man its nice to change it up im sure you will love it, we getting alot of bus drivers coming over lately to us.
@@truckitprayle i sent an email to ebs in gravesend not to sure if they will take someone new but plenty jobs out there can’t wait
@@tcrpz course they will
How can you do 12 hours? I thought there was a 9 hour daily driving limit? Help!?
9 hpurs drive time but you can work 15 hours so you are not always driving you will be loading tipping etc.
Anybody who is young it's a good job to go into until you have a family. Yes it's long hours easily 15 with commuting and traffic. First you have to build up your driving stamina. Therefore go for bus driving first. Once you got stamina and familiarity with driving large vehicles then go for class 2 ...learn about tacho regs and doing deliveries then do class 1. Its not easy job when the last driver leaves a mess in the cabin and you gotta sleep in a filthy bed.
Yeah glad i don't have to share my lorry, id hate that 😅
Service stations are the same across the continent mate. Have to pay to use the bog in most European ones
Yes the bloody indicators!!👍
I work for a company that has paid for my ADR, Moffat, also been trained to use several different types of trailers, up skilled me to class 1, allows me to work on shifts that suit my home life ie; Monday to Friday, day shifts, tramping, weekends if I want. I only have 3 issues with the job
1. My 42k p/a does not reflect the time or effort that goes into my job.
2. The trucks I drive are always uncared for hand me downs and I am expected to clean them out of my own pocket.
3. My managers can be nice & enjoyable to work with but other times when they are having tough day/week C^*+s to work with.
Yeah its hard to find a company with the right balance but you are lucky that they paid for you to do it all!
@@truckitprayle it is the reason I applied and work for the company. I know that no matter where you go there will always be good and bad things so it just finding the balance and I think that I have that for now.
Bursting bubbles now but you are not well paid unless you have your ADR and are on tankers or even better radioactive, general haulage is just you and your bunk in your truck
Most jobs I’ve done you’re constantly being hounded, always being watched, constant stupid phone calls etc, on nights not so much, rare to find a haulier who’ll just leave you alone
You need to find a good company then my friend i rarely get bothered at any of my class 1 jobs
I've just started my HGV training, I'm 51. My question is , does the job take a toll on your back at all ?
Personally i have never had a problem, i guess the key is to make sure ypu have your seat set right and also if you have to do any manual handling.
But doing truck tyres previously that did no good for my back or knees for that matter!
Looking into this kind of work - Great video bud 👍
The service station issue and lack of family time becomes a non issue when you are employed by a supermarket RDC. The runs are shorter, the days are shorter, the trucks are smaller, you can buy food in a supermarket and pay supermarket prices.
The only big issue is the urban nature of the job and the manual handling. Supermarket work is not suitable for inexperienced drivers. Get some experience on multidrop trunking and some geographical knowledge of the area before getting into a artic and delivering to residential urban areas full of parked cars, tight service roads, width restrictions and low bridges.
Nice video mate. I totally agree with you 100%
Good video ...your funny aswel made me lol a few times mate..I've been looking into becoming a driver because of the money so thin i will go for it
Best of luck mate you wont regret it!
I do a completely different type of job currently but I’m seriously contemplating HGV driving training. Time away from family is a worry though. Very silly question - ‘weekends off’ an option in this type of career?
I do monday to friday 55 hours contracted some weeks i might do 40 hours some i might do 60 but im home every night, all depends on what you are looking for.
I used to live uk driving Class one.
Now live Texas on tankers $169,000 per year.
Living the dream mate, i was looking at moving to canada but hasn't worked out!
This job is not made for family man, companyes pay peanuts for those 13-15h then after 5pm (for trampers) no space to park, driving over WTD rules and DVSA is there to make some punishments if catch some poor driver. Parcel companyes and pallet distribution has got better deal, start between 7 - 9am and finish in 8 - 10h -- fridays finish much early as companyes rushing to sort parcels and go home, and better money to earn. But is hard to catch a job like that, shyt jobs are always available around, good ones with lucky can catch. My advice is to try and work with DHL / DX / DPD if you want good money and spend 5-6h a day with your family, weekends home without stress. Got enough working with snowflakes firms pushing hard to make the profit for them and I search untill got now a perfect job. Drivers shoudn`t accept more than 10h a day work in the HGV and minimum start 7am, no 3-4 that is night start and poor sleep. good luck i wish you shure you can find better job head up
I hate how people don't use their indicators, I wish the government would change the highway code to require indicators to be a legal requirement at all junctions when turning left or right, although I do know at the moment you can be fined for not indicating as it's considered driving without due care and attention. It's kind of funny how they make the silly changes to the highway code that are either badly worded and done or are just plain dumb but yet they don't change things that make sense.
Petrol stations don't really rip people off, it just depends on who owns/runs the petrol station shop. I used to work at a petrol station and things were very expensive however 3 of my local petrol stations are cheaper than my local tesco, in fact 1 of them is a tesco station and there is no difference in price compared to going into the main store down the road. Are you sure you're going to the right stations? I find petrol stations with Tesco, co-op, morrisons, etc are cheaper than the ones with spar, Euro garages etc.
Hi mate, im a self employed driver and also have twins... How are you finding it... Mine are 1
It was a struggle the first year and a bit but now they are 3 it's got alot better mate, i actually get sleep now 😅
Quick question-whilst your waiting to be seen and unloaded would you put tacho to other work(crossed hammers) or wud u put it to POA
Only if you know you wont be interrupted can you take your break so usually cross hammers especially if you haven't got any lunch with you
Services as in dual carriageways.....no toilets available at most every so-called 24hr services! Awful ....maybe mention...never ever a job for family folks more than 2 or 4 days a week.....I've worked at many place's with older drivers full of regrets re missed family growing up and quite a few...3rd wife's club!.....Hence, before it's too late..many a Class 1 now a planner as heartaches for older kids they were never home for....many need to think on before enjoying driving at costs to family??
Most honest comment here ❤
Great informative video mate. I’m currently doing my C+E boot camp and was wondering if there are job opportunities for weekends only and picking your own days/hours really?
Some agencies you can pick and choose but its only if they have the work for those days
dont listen hes a crap driver
Do you have to pay for damage to the truck even if it's not your fault?
Depends on the company and agreement you have in place, most companies just pay through insurance but if you keep messing up they will charge you.
Hello and thanks for your vlog. It would be good to discuss what to expect for pay grades etc, people having to pay for damage to air cables etc. What to look out for in potential employment that the contract that people could fall foul off. Another thing that I've been thinking about is the points like nectar etc for purchasing fuel are we allowed to use our own nectar card? "Every little helps" as they say. Great vlog. I truly hope that you don't miss out on much of the twins growing up. Take care and stay safe. HAPPY EASTER 🐣 to you all. Regards Jonny Wray ☘️
Thanks for the ideas mate, ss far as nectar points etc im pretty sure most companies have them in with the actual fuel cards.
Not so sure about smaller companies though!
Can you name the background tune in the beginning
How much did it cost you good video
It cost around £2500-£3000.
I've got a question, say you want to move to a new city, how easy would that be getting to work? Would you just start at a closer depot? Do you always start work at the same place?
I guess that would depend on the company you work for. If its a big company nationwide then ypu could probably relocate. But if its a smaller company you will probably need to look for a new job.
I'm about to start training in January I've driven buses coaches and 3.5 and 7.5 tonne vehicles how different is it from these kind of vehicles?
It is different, however i know a few ex bus drivers and they picked it up really quick.
Best of luck!
12 hr days. Lucky. I'm stuck doing 14hrs
Great vid man, nice one
Cheers dude appreciate it, don't forget to subscribe mate 🤙
Hi. I’m newly qualified class 1 and struggling to find work. The agencies won’t touch newly qualified due to insurance issues and no one ever gets back to you when you do apply for jobs. Have you got any tips on how to actually get a class 1 job? Thanks
Yeah, one of the worst parts when you pass, finding a company that will take you without experience.
I also struggled some people find the best way is to do a class 2 job where they also have class 1 work then work your way in.
What part of the country are in?
Keep trying with the agencies - there are a few national firms that take on newly qualified. It's how I got my start. D H helped me. ;)
Watch out for all the lies that seems common with agencies find a good one there are still a few out there just few and far between
Do class 2 for a year...or try Stobart
im currently in the process of getting my Class 1 license, i would appreciate any tips people could give me about either with the theory/practical test or just everyday tips as a HGV driver.
Lots of revision on your theory, there are loads of good apps for this and as for practical make sure you take your time the examiner will not mark you down for being cautious and safe.
For example if you are at a roundabout and its busy don't rush to pull out through fear of being marked down for hesitation, wait for it to be perfectly safe.
@@truckitprayle thanks for the response, yeah the company in with for my training have provided me with a very good website with my own account, has every topic covered on the theory, with end of topic tests and full size mock tests, also covers hazard perception and show me tell me, my main cause of nervousness is from the fact I’m going straight to Class 1, can’t wait to get stuck in though, love the fact of being away and not having bosses on your back all day like you said in the video, thanks for the tips 👍🏼
Hi. Thanks for the video. I passed my class 1 early last month but struggling to get someone to take me on as I don’t have much HGV driving experience. Do you have any tips for newly qualified drivers looking for their first job?
Hey lee, i always say instead of doing agency work try a job that have class 2 and 1 get them to take you on as a class 2 driver and move up to class 1 once you get your foot in the door thats how i got my first class 1 job mate hope this helps.
@@truckitprayle thanks for the reply. Yes, I’ll look into class 2 first 👍. I want to get in directly with a company rather than agency if I can 👍
Good Video, but 4:55 did you cut the van off on the roundabout :D ?
It looks like it but he came flying out of the roundabout after i had began to pull out, hence why he didn't use his horn because he knew he was going to fast 👍
Any experience drivers 8 wheeler tippers? Thinking of doing my class 2. Money seems good and home every night.
I done a few days covering when i was on the walking floors at hanson, its not bad work alot of waiting around i found
Just came across your channel. Good stuff. So do you recommend getting a class 1?
It depends on your life style mate, if you don't mind putting in the hours and earning a good wage go for it!
@@truckitprayle take some use to driving through the streets of London though. Bad enough in a car.
Just passed my car to class 1. December 20th. Done my cpc and got all cards back.
All about finding a job now which is harder than people think.
Everyone wants experience but how can I get experience if no one gives me a job 😮😅
Yeah its the most common complaint i hear from new drivers and it wasn't much different when i started out you just got to take anything you can get your foot in the door then you will be laughing
@@truckitprayle I’m looking to maybe do some tramping, container work.
It was the best thing I’ve done to date acquiring the license and I definately think more people should go for it. I’m new to your channel and it’s helping me a lot :D Thanks :D
The whole professional driving system in the UK is very bad. We have left the EU but still driving under EC Directive 561/06. Due to the lack of drivers operators of both coach and lorry expect to work drivers to the maximum eligibility. The whole vocational qualification of becoming a professional driver is a mess. You have bus drivers working on domestic hours driving 5.5 hours before a 45 minute break. Class 2 lorry drivers can't drive buses yet they are the same size. You have the king of the road class 1 artic drivers not allowed to drive a coach or a minibus. Yet the government can spend on building smart tachograph readers on roads. There has always been a driver shortage because you have to learn everything yourself and spend your money on it. Driving large vehicles just like becoming a gas engineer or electrician needs to have a framework and a skills ladder that you can climb such as first driving buses for 1 year and then coaches for 1 year then if you wish you can do class 2 lorry and then class 1 and then ADR and then transponders /tankers etc. Those with the higher qualifications such as class 1 should be allowed to drive lower class vehicles such as bus or minibus. At the moment you have to apply, study and pass all the different categories separately. Also truckers have hyped up the money they get paid because they have been in the industry. Bus Coach and Class 2 for a rookie your looking £12 per hour. Nevertheless the professional driver is undermined by both operators and the government for such a highly skilled job. I'm reading the comments about how people want to become a hgv driver. Just remember the first day you walk into a job you will be given the paperwork, a fuel card and the keys to the vehicle. When you gotta reverse that monster on your OWN no body to help you and then you'll know what it feels like to have a heart attack. My advice to rookies is to do atleast 9 months on class 2 before even thinking of class 1. Also your health is important. If you fail a regular health medical for drugs alcohol or high blood pressure covid or diabetes or anything else then you've lost your license. Remember your only given a licence to drive it is not a qualification. That's why I said before if your young it's okay but for this nearing mid life or looking for a career change there are many more better university courses that will give you a qualification for life and not just a licence even though you have put many many years into understanding the industry and perfecting your driving skills. How many of you can drive a truck in Europe or put chains on a coach and drive up the Alps. Do your research before spending money it costs a lot of money to pay a driving instructor
Splendid! You look like Decaprio. Anyway great video, if you have any tips on drivers hours and the dreaded WTD it would be much appreciated. Doing my class 1 at the mo and drivers hours is the one thing that I think I’ll have the most difficulty. So if you can give any tips, anything that will help would be great . Even if it’s just the way you do it, if it clicks it’s great thanks.
Most modern units have a built in drive time clock so just keep an eye on it.
They usually count down from 4.30 so keep an eye on that and just make sure you have had a full 45 (47 to be safe) before 6 hours from when you entered your card!
Hope that helps.
@@truckitprayle Out of all the videos I’ve watched on drivers hours nobody has ever mentioned such 😎 priceless my friend. Bless!
Is there any website looking for HGV jobs, for a new driver. I've been working as a class C driver for 7 months now. going to complete my C@E in 4 weeks.
I just use indeed usually mate.
Does anyone know if my car points (I have six points) would get passed on to my HGV license after completing my HGV ?
thanks.
Im not actually to sure about this one fella hopefully someone else can answer it for you.
Thanks for the information brother
Love the vids mate keep up the good work.thinking about going for my class 2 license but my driving licence only covers automatic vehicles would that be a issue for trying to find work etc
Im not a 100% sure but most HGVs are automatic these days so i can't imagen it being a problem, good luck!
So, if you're sat for two hours to get unloaded, how does that affect your pay? Is it like an hourly rate from truck out to truck in or a salary and then jobs list etc? Thanks
Im.contracted for 11 hours a day so i will get paid for 55 hours a week even if i do 40 but thats unlikely, and anything over 55 is overtime.
@@truckitprayle Ok brill, just passed theory, hazard perception and CPC and was just about to book onto the Class 1 practical course only to find out there's now a 4 month wait 🤮.
Great content 👍🏽
Good video mate, I’ve just sent off for my provisional HGV License after passing my medical today.
Currently practicing for the theory test before I book it. You mentioned it only took 3 days?
I’m in Essex and been quoted £2500 for the training and Practical. < would you say that’s good?
Obviously all new to me and daunting 😮, it’s what I want to do. I’m literally working 12-14 hours a day in a sprinter doing deliveries for terrible pay so HGV is definitely the way forward I believe as I love driving.
I paid about 2700 over 6 years ago for class 2 then class 1 so id say its pretty good mate, if you are doing tgose kind of hours then you will love it although the hours are probably similar you will only do a few drops a day much more easy passed.
Best of luck!
@@truckitprayle thanks for the quick response, hope you don’t mind me asking you a couple of questions lol. You seem experienced and obviously know your stuff.
Everyone is different but would you say the hazard perception and theory part is harder than the actual practical test?
Also the UK weather can be unpredictable, would you say you’ve had many near misses from the bad winds and the ice over your 6 year career?
Sorry mate, I literally don’t know any HGV drivers to ask 😂
@@maverick9767 it's ok mate, i don't think i have had any problems due to weather to be honest, atleast from what i can remember and as for the test just do as many practice test as you can and you will be fine, try not to over think it.
@@truckitprayle Thanks for your advise, put my mind at ease. Stepping out of my comfort zone is a bit daunting but I’ll get there. 😎👍🏽
yeah the 3 days course is nice but the time you have to wait in queue for the course to start is big, ive been waiting for more than half a year now, though its way less than the other professions
Yeah when i did it there wasn't a wait. i guess i was lucky
Great video pal! I am currently a graphic designer and was looking for a bit of a career switch up and I know a couple people that work as HGV drivers and they highly recommend it, I just had a few questions
Firstly, I was wondering, would it be a hindrance for me getting a job in this field as my previous working experience was so different, I’m 24 years old right now
And then secondly, during those hours where you’re just sat in the vans, are you allowed to bring laptops etc with you in the van to do some other work or just as something do while you wait?
Any information you could give me would be amazing!
When you first pass finding your first job can be difficult if you are picky, you have to pretty much do anything for 6 months to get the experience.
And yes you can take what you want laptop's ps5 whatever aslong as you aren't using it whilst driving obviously haha (it does happen 🤦♂️)
Hi,I need your advice please.I want to become HGV driver.But only problem is,my night vission is'nt good!!Are there day shift jobs availble aswell ?where i will not have to drive at nights.
I mean there are day shifts but they can be early shifts. So you may start at 4-5am. Meaning in the winter you will start in the dark for a good few hours.
There are some good companies out there but there are also some bad ones.
Ive been driving class 2 for 11ish months and had my class 1 for 3 months and I'm desperately trying to get driving a class 1. Any options or advise on maybe places to go as I'm unfortunately looking into considering the agency option. Any decent agencies to try?
It's not easy finding so.ething but personally i would get a job where they have class 2 and 1 and get your foot in the door with class 2 then get on there case about doing class 1 for them.
@@truckitprayle yeah that's what I was thinking and hoping with the place I'm at but no luck just gotta keep going I suppose.
I will be coming to uk to drive currently going to school for hgv
Oh nice where are you from?
@@truckitpraylei am a Nigerian living in Greece 🇬🇷
Do u get paid even when you are sitting waiting to get offloaded for say 3 hours? Also do you get used to reversing as that's something I'd panic about ha
Yes so you can either be paid hourly or by salary, so aslong as you are there doing your job you will be paid and sometimes waiting is part of the job.
Reversing is something everyone worries about at first but it really is like anything else practice makes perfect. Or close enough 😅
got my test in a few months, hoping ill find a job with decent hours and pay looking to maybe go into tipper work. woul you say thats a decent choice?
Tipper work is very fast paced work those dudes are always in a hurry i did walking floor on an artic and done a few days as a tipper driver its not too bad though.
Just watch out for those power lines haha 😄
Great vid keep them coming