Before discussing the details of the crisis affecting the HGV driver sector, it is necessary to clarify that HGV stands for Heavy Goods Vehicle Drivers.
If we look at the numbers, we’ll see that in 2022, the UK faced a shortage of about 100,000 HGV drivers. Still, by January 2023, the deficit had only slightly improved to nearly 76,000, according to Logistics UK. The truck driver shortage worsened in 2023, with a drop of 30,300 drivers in just the first quarter, raising concerns among shippers and carriers.
Of course, the reasons for this include challenges in recruiting new employees, a lack of interest from younger drivers, and, to some extent, Brexit, which has made it harder for foreign drivers (especially EU drivers) to obtain work permits in the United Kingdom.
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HGV driving means operating heavy goods vehicles that transport goods locally, nationally, and internationally. There are different types of licenses:
HGV drivers can work as employees for companies, own their trucks (owner-operators), or work through agencies, filling in where needed.
The UK driver shortage can be understood and explained. It is natural that over time, some jobs fall into decay while others rise. Unfortunately, the job of HGV truck drivers/lorry drivers is not experiencing its best days for a few reasons.
Many people avoid becoming HGV drivers due to poor working conditions, low wages, and a tough lifestyle. Health problems resulting from this work, such as hemorrhoids, poor eyesight, migraines, and depression, make this job unattractive.
The pandemic slowed down driver examinations and kept potential new drivers at home, reducing interest in the profession.
The HGV driver shortage, exacerbated by Brexit, has reached a critical point as many European drivers have returned to their home countries.
New tax rules from the UK government affect self-employed people, making their work less attractive to prospective drivers due to increased taxes and fewer benefits.
The backlog at the DVLA, a result of strikes, has significantly delayed the processing of new driver applications, further worsening the shortage.
The profession is often viewed negatively, deterring younger generations from considering it as a career option. Many hgv drivers feel very uncertain about their future. The average age of an HGV driver in the UK is around 55 years old. This aging workforce is a significant concern in the industry, as fewer young people are entering the profession, leading to driver shortages.
Young people choose professions where it is much easier to gain experience. For many employers, ‘experienced drivers’ are associated with age and the number of miles they’ve driven over the course of their careers.
It goes without saying that such a crisis has led to significant supply chain issues:
Drastic times call for effective measures, and several solutions have been proposed. One approach is fast-tracking driver examinations, with the Transport Secretary suggesting simplifying the licensing process.
However, it’s crucial to ensure that thorough training and safety protocols remain in place to avoid creating more severe issues. Another solution is changing perceptions of the profession by combating stereotypes and highlighting the benefits of being an HGV driver, such as good pay, job security, and growth opportunities.
Plus, following restrictive insurance policies that limit the hiring of new drivers and ensuring proper safety and competency training are essential steps in overcoming the current challenges.
Yes, the profession of an HGV driver is not the easiest in the world. However, with an intelligent approach, it can become a regular profession with the same risks and disadvantages as others.
Overall, becoming an HGV driver offers a stable career with good prospects. The transport and logistics sector is always in demand, regardless of the times and regimes. With a clear and smart career roadmap, the HGV driver occupation can shape the future of those who are drawn to the open road and speed.
