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Cargo Driver: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

What is a Cargo Driver?

A Cargo Driver is responsible for transporting various goods and materials from one place to another using large vehicles such as trucks or lorries. The job involves ensuring timely delivery, maintaining the vehicle, and following all safety regulations while on the road.

How do I become a Cargo Driver?

A Cargo Driver is responsible for transporting various goods and materials from one place to another using large vehicles such as trucks or lorries. The job involves ensuring timely delivery, maintaining the vehicle, and following all safety regulations while on the road.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Cargo Driver?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Cargo Driver

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Excellent driving skills and knowledge of road safety regulations
  • Ability to operate and maintain various types of trucks and cargo handling equipment
  • Strong time management and organizational skills to ensure timely delivery of goods
  • Good communication skills to interact with clients, colleagues, and authorities
  • Physical fitness and stamina to handle long hours of driving and loading/unloading cargo
  • Problem-solving skills to address any issues or emergencies on the road
  • Attention to detail to ensure accurate documentation and record-keeping
  • Flexibility and adaptability to work in different weather conditions and travel long distances

Qualifications & Education

  • No formal academic entry qualifications required
  • LGV test including medical examination, theory test, and assessed road driving
  • Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) required for LGV drivers of vehicles 5 tonnes and over
  • Minimum age for LGV driving after obtaining qualification is 18 years
  • NVQs/SVQs, other vocational courses, and apprenticeships available at various levels

Career Path

Cargo Driver
Delivery Driver
Courier
Logistics Coordinator
Transport Manager
Supply Chain Manager
Operations Director
Truck Driver
HGV Driver
Transport Planner
Fleet Manager
Distribution Manager
Bus Driver
Coach Driver
Transport Supervisor
Transport Operations Manager

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HGV driving stressful?

Yes, HGV driving can be stressful due to the physical demands of loading and unloading cargo, as well as the monotony of long drives on the same routes and the stress of navigating heavy traffic or bad weather.

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