Top 5 Characteristics Of A Qualified HGV Driver
An HGV driver is responsible for safely transporting goods across the country or overseas. Heavy goods vehicles (HGV) in the European Union (EU) are classified as trucks with a gross combination mass above 3,500 kg. (vehicle + load). An HGV driver performs various duties, including operating the HGV commercial vehicles, including rigid trucks, articulated lorries, tankers, transporters, and trailer wagons. HGV drivers play an important role, not only by contributing to economic development but also by helping to ensure the smooth functioning of society. Since driving an HGV is no easy task, drivers need to undergo appropriate training. It will equip them with the necessary skills to run the vehicles seamlessly without the risks of delays, accidents, or any legal consequences.
HGV driving can prove to be a rewarding career once you complete the requisite training. You can look for HGV driver training in UK. Once you complete the training, you can land a long-term job with good pay and added security. The transportation industry is witnessing exponential growth because of the increasing importance of the supply chain process. Hence, there is a growing demand for HGV drivers, who can safely, responsibly, and optimally run and manage these heavy commercial vehicles.
To operate an HGV, drivers need to undergo continual training requirements. It makes them aware of the various tactics to run it, makes them safety-conscious, and provides them with an HGV license that marks their entry into this domain. Training helps you to get your hands and brains on essential mechanical and functional knowledge. Since you need to pass rigorous tests to confirm your skills and knowledge, it is the most valid indicator of your HGV driving abilities. It will make you more prudent and cautious, ensures that you remain compliant with the necessary regulatory protocols.
A qualified HGV driver displays the following characteristics.
Organized
For HGV drivers, it is imperative to stay thoroughly organized during work hours. The hectic schedules, small cabin space, and the accessories and equipment required to be on the road can throw them into a cluttered mess. But proper training instills them with the skills to stay put and organized despite the several challenges. It helps them to make the necessary preparations before hitting the road. HGV drivers plan the route out and have a better idea of the cargo they are carrying. They have all the paperwork ready and organized to face all the situations they will across. It helps them build a smooth driving experience.
Responsible
An HGV driver has various responsibilities on their shoulder. They need to maintain fleet integrity, follow the different road rules and regulations, and drive safely to transport the cargo in the best condition. A trained HGV driver will positively assume full responsibility for the fleet they are transporting to great distances. HGV drivers are responsible for determining if the cargo is located, distributed, and secured in the HGV and ensure safe unloading and delivery at their destination. A qualified HGV driver will have a good sense of their responsibility and ethically carry out their duty.
Stress Management Skills
Driving heavy good vehicles for long hours can build up stress. HGV training helps drivers to practice ways to cope up with their stress and improve their driving efficiency. The mobile lifestyle, space limitations in HGV, traffic, and driving through narrow and difficult routes are common reasons for stress in them. A qualified HGV driver knows they need to point out what is building up stress in them and will practice ways to weed it out before it is dangerous.
Timeliness
Driving an HGV is a time-intensive task. The HGV driver must ensure to deliver the freight within the deadline responsibly. They should exhibit proper judgment in a timely fashion. They must stay alert and aware and plan out their schedule to do not exert themselves beyond the limit. Planning out the work and rest schedule will help them avoid the risk of fatigue and fatal inattentiveness.
Professionalism
A qualified HGV driver will show professionalism in their work. They will take their driving seriously, abide by road laws, and remain courteous to other drivers. They are aware of the various factors on the road: the weather conditions, traffic, road quality, how the vehicle is doing, and more. They stay alert and recognize when a problem is on the rise to make safe driving choices. A qualified HGV driver will professionally communicate the fleet location and other details to the stakeholders to be informed. The mechanical knowledge also enables them to take care of the minor maintenance issues, which allows them to save time and reliably deliver the goods to the destinations. Moreover, they also comply with safety standards while driving the vehicle.
To Conclude:
These are some of the essential traits a qualified HGV driver displays. They responsibly carry out their duty, adapt to their jobs better, and reliably perform their duties to keep the cargo safe and the end-users happy.