Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [HGV Career Pathways: A Complete Guide to Specialist Delivery Driving Roles in the UK](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/hgv-specialist-delivery-driving/): Specialist delivery driving roles tend to offer higher salaries for HGV drivers. You can move into specialist delivery roles within your current HGV driving career, or you can choose your HGV training with a direct view to finding employment in a specialist delivery role. First, you need to go through the types of specialist delivery roles that exist and then ensure that your licence entitlements are correct for those careers.  - [How to work out which delivery job is best for you](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/how-to-work-out-which-delivery-job-is-best-for-you/): "I’ve been thinking of training to be a delivery driver." - [What to do when you’ve fallen behind in your periodic CPC](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/what-to-do-when-youve-fallen-behind-in-your-periodic-cpc/): If you've suddenly realised that your Driver CPC has expired or is about to expire, try not to panic. You're not alone, you’re not the first, and there are straightforward steps you can take to get your HGV training back on track with your ongoing professional driving qualifications.  - [Have Working Conditions for HGV Drivers Improved?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/have-working-conditions-for-hgv-drivers-improved/): We take a look at current working conditions for HGV drivers, from the cab to the roadside, and offer insights into the future for professional drivers across the haulage industry. - [Thinking of becoming a delivery driver? Here’s what you need to know](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/becoming-a-delivery-driver-need-to-know/): Sometimes it’s not until you embark on a career that you realise how many different types of role there are available to you! Becoming a delivery driver is no different. From local courier jobs to international haulage, delivery is broad and varied. Undertaking a career in this field offers flexibility, stability, and the chance to explore new horizons. Plus, starting salaries are high, with plenty of opportunities to grow and develop.  - [Is Surrey or Hampshire the best county for HGV training?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/surrey-or-hampshire-best-county-hgv-training/): It really is worth taking the time to plan and research your HGV training location. Having already made the decision that a career in professional driving is your next move, it’s important to make sure that the learning process fits with your life. This will get your training, and ultimately your career, off to a great start. If you’re based in the South of England, counties such as Surrey and Hampshire offer excellent training opportunities. Indeed, you might live in the borderlands amongst Berkshire, Surrey and Hampshire! It is worth travelling to the right school, and are there particular road networks which lend themselves better to HGV driving practice?  - [What modules are there in the driver CPC?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/what-modules-are-there-in-the-driver-cpc/): If you’re starting to think about the CPC element of learning to drive an HGV, the chances are that you’re pretty set on this career path. Planning and understanding the CPC will get you of in good stead. If the thought of CPC makes you feel daunted about the whole process, we’re here to tell you not to let it. HGV careers have fantastic short and long term prospects and training is a really sound investment. Here, we break down where the CPC fits in, what exactly it covers, and why it’s more help than horror! - [How hard is the HGV theory test?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/how-hard-hgv-theory-test/): Success in the HGV theory test starts with good study habits. Set aside regular study sessions to maintain consistent progress. Use a variety of resources, including study guides, flashcards, and online quizzes, to reinforce your understanding. Engaging with interactive content, such as video tutorials from experienced drivers, can also deepen your learning. - [Will I secure an HGV job once I am qualified?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/secure-hgv-job-once-qualified/): It’s a big step to decide on a specific career path or a career change. Committing to the training is only the first step. Looking beyond your qualification, it can feel that there’s a huge unknown when it comes to employment. How likely are you to secure a job? What type of roles are open to you? Have you taken on the right training? You may worry about all of these things when you consider HGV driver training. However, in this field there are a few key differences which make employment more reliable. - [How can your business benefit from organisation wide HGV training?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/how-can-your-business-benefit-from-organisation-wide-hgv-training/): Every day’s a school day, so they say, and for HGV training this is especially true. For organisations large and small, the initial and ongoing training of drivers is integral to the smooth running of the business and is something that is always on the radar. You may have drivers who are keeping on top of their periodic CPC requirements, employing new drivers, or promoting existing staff. Maybe it’s all of the above! This is why having a trusted training supplier to take all of this off your hands can be such a wise move. We look more into the business benefits of training partnerships.  - [What is the point of the CPC qualification?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/what-is-the-point-of-the-cpc-qualification/): Since 2009, for anyone embarking on HGV training, the term CPC will have been pretty central. The CPC, or driver Certificate of Professional Competence is now a core part of the training and qualification process for professional HGV drivers. However, it wasn’t always in place. This can mean that we can sometimes find ourselves asking what the point of the CPC qualification is. To understand the value that this part of the training process brings, we need to understand its history and purpose. We’ll look at what the CPC is, how it came into being, and how it can benefit drivers throughout their careers. - [Which HGV Licence should I apply for?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/which-hgv-licence-should-i-apply-for/): If you are at the early stages of considering HGV driving as a career, you’re probably looking at all of the different licence categories. There are so many of them that it can feel daunting, as you want to make the right decision from the outset! To make that decision, it’s important to understand what each category means, what it actually entitles you to drive, and what kind of work you may be able to do with that licence. At Surrey and Hampshire HGV training, we support our drivers through the whole process from start to finish. Which includes deciding which licence you should apply for. - [Is your New Years’ resolution to train to be a HGV driver? Here’s how to make it happen](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/is-your-new-years-resolution-to-train-to-be-a-hgv-driver-heres-how-to-make-it-happen/): As the year comes to a close, many people start to think about what changes they may wish to make for next year. You might consider a personal challenge, a lifestyle shift, or a career change. If it’s the last one, there are a huge number of reasons that training to be an HGV driver could be the right path for you. We’ll look at the practical steps to take in order to gain an HGV qualification, as well as the benefits to this career choice.  - [How to add a higher driving category to your licence and decide which category you need](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/how-to-add-a-higher-driving-category-to-your-licence-and-decide-which-category-you-need/): The world of transport and delivery involves a huge variety of vehicles. From smaller rigid bodied delivery trucks to articulated lorries and beyond. This amount of diversity is something that you’ve probably never thought about too much until the moment you begin your HGV training journey. Then you need to decide which provisional licence you should apply for. So what are the different driving categories, and what should you consider when making your decision? - [Everything you need to know about tacho machines](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/everything-you-need-to-know-about-tacho-machines/): A key part of the day to day as an HGV driver will be based around your tacho card. A tachograph machine, which reads your tacho card, is essentially how your vehicle communicates with your employer. If you are still at the early stages of becoming an HGV driver, it is worth familiarising yourself with how these machines work. They are a key part of managing your workload and making sure that your rights are protected.  - [What is an ADR Licence and Who Needs One?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/what-is-an-adr-licence-and-who-needs-one/): On its own, an HGV driving licence equips you to drive “heavy goods vehicles”, like trucks and lorries throughout the United Kingdom. Acquiring your HGV certification shows you have the skills required to manage the complex components and equipment in an HGV. However, the standard certification will only prepare you to drive certain types of heavy vehicles, with specific loads.  - [The Benefits of Becoming an HGV Driver in 2023](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/the-benefits-of-becoming-an-hgv-driver-in-2023/): If you’ve been looking for a change of pace in your career, you might have begun thinking about a future as an HGV driver. After all, there are countless companies searching for these skilled professionals today, thanks to the nationwide shortage of HGV talent. You might have even seen a few job listings and wondered what HGV driving might be like. - [5 Tips For Driving An HGV In The Winter](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/5-tips-for-driving-an-hgv-in-the-winter/): Here are some top tips to keep you safe all-year round. - [The Benefits of Choosing a National HGV Training Provider over a Local School](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/the-benefits-of-choosing-a-national-hgv-training-provider-over-a-local-school/): If you’ve been thinking of starting a career as a HGV driver, you’re in good company. Lately, the HGV driver shortage has prompted massive demand for people with the right skills to manage lorries, vans, and trucks on the roads of the UK. This means trained professionals can expect higher wages, better job security, and a range of fantastic opportunities in their new career. - [How Long Does It Take To Become A Lorry Driver In The UK?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-lorry-driver-in-the-uk/): Thinking of switching up your career this year? If you love the open road, have a passion for driving, and enjoy a sense of freedom in your work, an HGV driving job could be perfect for you. In a world where the number of lorry drivers available is drastically low, you might have an easier time successfully getting a job today than ever before. - [What skills does an HGV driver need?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/what-skills-does-an-hgv-driver-need/): If a life on the open road and a great annual wage sounds like the perfect recipe for your dream job, you may be well-suited to a life as a HGV driver. At present, the HGV driver shortage is still as significant as ever, which mean companies in search of the right talent are willing to pay more to find trained professionals capable of filling the gaps in their team. If you’re willing to put the time and effort into developing your knowledge of the Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) landscape, the reward can be a highly rewarding career. The question is, which skills do you need to excel in your position as a HGV driver? What are the best employers really looking for, and how can you make sure you stand out? While the exact demands for any role will vary, here are some of the most common skills a HGV driver will need. 1. HGV Driving Skills Starting with the most obvious, to be a HGV driver, you’ll need to be qualified to manage and drive a larger vehicle than most people accustomed to. You’ll need to be confident behind the wheel of a vehicle which may be responsible for moving a range of different materials, and you should consider yourself to be a relatively efficient, and extremely safe driver. Aside from earning your HGV license, you’ll also need to have a standard driving license that’s free from convictions. This will help you to appeal to the best-paying employers in the HGV environment. You’ll also need to know how to handle a HGV in different environments and situations, like in winter, when the roads can be icy. 2. Mechanical Knowledge Though you don’t need to be a full mechanic to thrive in a HGV position, you will need some basic mechanical knowledge. After all, you’ll be driving for extended periods of time in this vehicle, so you should be able to determine what the issue is if something goes wrong mid-journey. You’ll also be responsible for checking your vehicle before you take it out on the road, to ensure it’s safe enough to travel. Although your employer will likely conduct specialist tests to ensure the HGV you use is road-worthy, you’ll still need to be able to handle any minor mechanical issues which might pop up when you’re driving. 3. Reliability and Honesty Though technical skills like driving capabilities and mechanical knowledge are important to a life as a successful HGV driver, you’ll also need to have the right soft skills to stand out when you go for your job interview. In most cases, an employer won’t just be looking for a professional who’s comfortable hauling all kinds of equipment in a larger vehicle. They’ll also want someone they can trust. A great HGV driver is reliable, flexible, and honest. Remember, you’re going to be responsible for transporting some very expensive and important goods for clients, so you need to be someone your boss can rely on. Showing your future boss you can be reliable, honest, and ready to pay attention to the rules of the road at all times will help you to earn the best possible role. 4. Good Organisation and Decision Making There’s a common belief in the HGV driving world that employees are simply left to go wherever they’re told, and that’s all there is to it. However, the reality is there’s a lot more input required from you than you might realise. You need to be able to examine two different routes in real-time and decide which road is the best one for you in terms of safety and efficiency. You’ll also be required to plan your day to ensure you’re reaching your destination on time, while still giving yourself time for breaks and rest between sessions of driving. Knowing how to organise your schedule and make effective decisions will be crucial in your role. You may even find that you need to handle more paperwork than most people realise. Keeping track of this documentation will help your boss to stay compliant with rules and regulations. 5. Good Communication Skills Because a lot of the time you spend as a HGV driver will be alone in a cab, driving from one destination to the next, you might not think communication skills are very important. However, that’s often far from the case. First, you’ll need to communicate regularly with your boss to keep them posted on your progress with various jobs and deadlines. If you’re part of a team, you’ll need to communicate and collaborate with them to ensure you’re all meeting your targets. Eventually, if you’re promoted in your HGV role, you may even need to guide and direct your entire team too. Additionally, you’ll need to be able to deal with customers and build trusted relationships with the people you connect with over time. You’ll need to be able to answer questions clients might have about the items you’re hauling, and communicate about how to best unload and store equipment. 6. Stress Management While many of the careers you can develop with a career in HGV driving will deliver a lot of fun, freedom, and opportunity, they can also be stressful from time to time. A job as a HGV driver is often unpredictable. You might find yourself dealing with people on the road that don’t drive as well as you do, or terrible traffic conditions. Stress can also be brought on by being away from home for long periods of time as a long-haul driver. Being able to manage your stress effectively and look after your mental health will be important if you want to excel as a HGV driver. Good stress management means you can take the challenges of the job head-on, without suffering from reduced productivity or efficiency. Do You Have the Skills? If you think you have all the skills you need to excel as a HGV driver – but you still need to get that HGV driving qualification, reach out to Surrey and Hampshire HGV training today to finish off your CV, and start your new career. - [Top Tips for Staying Cool Whilst on the Road this Summer](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/top-tips-for-staying-cool-whilst-on-the-road-this-summer/): Summer as an HGV driver can be an amazing experience. It’s a chance to enjoy the fun of driving with the windows down and the wind in your hair. Plus, you can avoid the headaches of some of the rainier, or colder days of the year in the UK.  - [5 Myths on The Future of HGV Driving: Busted](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/5-myths-on-the-future-of-hgv-driving-busted/): HGV driving continues to be an essential part of the UK economy, and a crucial job all around the globe. Whether it’s transporting essential equipment for leisure and entertainment companies, or transporting stock from warehouses, HGV professionals keep the world turning. - [Is the HGV Driver Shortage Still Serious in 2022?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/is-the-hgv-driver-shortage-still-serious-in-2022/): Despite hopes the HGV driver shortage would be “easing” by the start of 2022, many experts believe there’s still a way to go before the UK is back on track. Over the last few months, governments have taken a number of steps to fight against the shortages, from scrapping the limits on the number of deliveries EU drivers could make, to welcoming outside drivers back into the country.  - [How to Prepare for HGV Driving In Winter](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/how-to-prepare-for-hgv-driving-in-winter/): The end of the festive season doesn’t mark the end of the winter weather in the UK. In fact, it’s just the beginning. From sleet and snow to ice and rain, every year brings us an onslaught of freezing atmospheres to deal with. For any driver, being on the road can be nerve-wracking. For a HGV driver with a larger vehicle, the threats can be even more significant.  - [What Sort of Careers Can You Do with an HGV/LGV License?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/what-sort-of-careers-can-you-do-with-an-hgv-lgv-license/): Sometimes, getting the ideal job means dedicating some extra time to training and certification. That’s certainly the case if your idea of the perfect career involves sitting behind the wheel of a truck or lorry. In order to handle larger vehicles, truck drivers need to prove their skills by obtaining an HGV/LGV license. Fortunately, once you have this license, you’ll be able to explore a range of roles. - [Leisure and Entertainment We Wouldn’t Have Without HGVs](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/leisure-and-entertainment-we-wouldnt-have-without-hgvs/): Becoming an HGV driver is your route to an excellent career path. Great career prospects and good job security will all ensure you quickly earn back what you’ve spent on driver training. Especially right now, given the fact that we’re facing a massive shortfall of HGV drivers here in the UK alone. - [Is There Still A Big Demand For HGV Drivers In 2021?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/is-there-still-a-big-demand-for-hgv-drivers-in-2021/): If you’ve been here a while, we often talk about two things – the HGV driver shortage, and how great it is to be a HGV driver.  You might think those two things don’t go together, but the sad fact is not many people realise what a great job being a HGV driver can be. So instead of looking at the options and doing some training, they opt for jobs that likely don’t pay as well, have the security of being a HGV driver, or give them the same level of freedom.  And a common reason for this is that they don’t think HGV drivers are really in demand anymore.  But they couldn't be more wrong! Despite all the advances in technology and changes to the job market, the UK needs HGV drivers more now than ever before. - [Driving Hours, Breaks & Rest: Your Rights](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/driving-hours-breaks-rest-your-rights/): Driving for a long time might be fun, but it’s also pretty tiring. While you might be sitting in one place, your mind is keeping track of dozens of things happening around you at all times, and your body is always on alert, ready to react quickly if something were to happen. But unlike normal drivers, HGV drivers often don’t have the option to just stop whenever they want during their journeys. You have a schedule to stick to after all. So instead, there are laws in place that dictate how long you can drive for in one go, when you need to take breaks, and how long those breaks have to be. All to make sure you are rested enough to be safe behind the wheel. And today, we’re going to share them with you. - [Safety As A Long-Haul HGV Driver – What You Need To Know](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/safety-as-a-long-haul-hgv-driver-what-you-need-to-know/): We talk a lot about learning to become a HGV driver. But while a lot of our blogs talk about what’s on the tests, what you need to know and how to find work as a driver once you are qualified, we don’t talk a lot about safety. And not road safety either – this is all about personal safety. Because while being out on the road by yourself is one of the big draws of being a HGV driver, it’s also one of the bigger safety issues. So today, we wanted to give you some tips for keeping yourself safe out on the road, especially at night. - [HGVs – From Then To Now](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/hgvs-from-then-to-now/): There is no denying that HGVs are a vital part of the UK economy, Without them, businesses across the country would fall apart, being unable to receive their supplies or ship out goods to customers. And businesses like Amazon, whose success is down to a network of HGVs, would cease to exist. But for something so critical, they didn’t always exist. There was a time when HGVs hadn’t even been thought of yet, and they went through a few transformations before they ended up as the enterprise we know today. Want to know what that looked like? Read on. - [Driver Mental Health – Are You Paying Attention?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/driver-mental-health-are-you-paying-attention/): When it comes to essential services, you can’t get more essential than HGV drivers. They are the backbone of our economy, with hundreds of thousands of businesses relying on them to keep things running and products moving. That’s a lot of pressure as a baseline. But add in the long-term driver shortage that’s had them all working longer, harder hours, the stress of Brexit and the panic of a global pandemic, HGV drivers are feeling the strain more now than ever before. And this can lead to a lot of mental health concerns among drivers. So if you employ HGV drivers, you should be doing everything you can to ensure the physical and mental health of your drivers stays in tip top shape, even in the toughest of times. - [Do Introverts Make Good HGV Drivers?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/do-introverts-make-good-hgv-drivers/): When we get asked about becoming a HGV driver, one of the things we often get asked is ‘would it be a good career for me?’ And generally we say that if you’re over 18 and have a clean drivers licence, then of course it would be a good option. But sometimes we get asked about personality types, and specifically how well an introvert would be suited to it as a career option. And then, we say it would be a great option! Introverts are often drawn to a life on the road, and today we’re going to explain why. - [HGV Driver – A Flexible Career Choice?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/hgv-driver-a-flexible-career-choice/): Flexible working is something that, 1o (or even 5) years ago just wouldn’t be a consideration. But it’s been growing in popularity over the recent years, and thanks to the pandemic it’s gone from a nice perk to an absolute necessity. Being able to decide your work hours, work without going into an office and work a schedule that suits you has never been more important, which means new job-seekers are looking for flexible working to be at the top of the list. Which has spawned a common question for us – is being a HGV driver a flexible job? - [I’m In The UK On A Work Visa – Can I Drive An LGV?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/im-in-the-uk-on-a-work-visa-can-i-drive-an-lgv/): If you already know how to drive an LGV professionally, then moving to the UK to do it seems like a no brainer. After all, a lorry is a lorry, no matter what country you’re in, and with the UK experiencing a prolonged driver shortage, you’re almost guaranteed a job quickly. But the problem is, if you’re not a British citizen, you will need a work visa to come to the country, and that can be tricky. Today, we’re going to go through how you can drive professionally in the UK on a work visa. - [Safety First – Your Pre-Drive Checks (Part 1)](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/safety-first-your-pre-drive-checks-part-1/): As a professional HGV driver, you have a lot of responsibilities on your shoulders. To get your goods to their destination on time, and in one piece, or loading and unloading your vehicle, for example. But the most important thing you need to do as a HGV driver is make sure that you, and everyone on the road around you, is safe. To make sure you do this, the government have put in place a set of checks you must do every day before you drive your vehicle anywhere. These tasks might start out like a long list, but they very quickly become just another part of the routine – something you get used to doing before you start your journey. This checklist is split into 2 parts, and today we’re going to be covering part 1 with you – the interior vehicle safety checks. - [Your Life as a Class 1 HGV Driver](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/your-life-as-a-class-1-hgv-driver/): HGV training might sound like a simple thing, but the reality is there are a lot of different choices to make. The first of those is which kind of licence you want to hold. We’ve talked a lot before about the basic kinds of licences you can study for, but we’ve never really touched on the top licence – the Class 1. The Class 1 licence takes some time and dedication to achieve, so before you dive right in, why not take some time to understand what it is, and the rewards of earning one. - [The Most Frequently Asked Questions About HGV Driver Training – Answered](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/the-most-frequently-asked-questions-about-hgv-driver-training-answered/): Becoming a HGV driver is a fantastic career move, to be sure. But it can also be a little daunting. After all, this isn’t one that you can just stroll in off the street, do an interview and start out in a brand new industry. Instead, before you’re even considered for any sort of job, you have to show your commitment and skill by undertaking your driver training. This means the Driver CPC, and any other HGV licenses you might want to do, before you can get a job. Understandably, many people have questions about this process, so today we’re going to do our best to answer them for you. - [Common HGV Accidents, And How To Avoid Them](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/common-hgv-accidents-and-how-to-avoid-them/): Being a good HGV driver is about more than just getting from point A to point B. It’s about making sure you and everyone around you are safe, which means staying out of accidents. No one likes to think about accidents on the roads, but they do happen, and since high percentages of accidents involving lorries are fatal, drivers should be proactive in avoiding them. So in this blog, we wanted to talk about the main causes of HGV accidents in this country, and give you some tips on how to avoid being involved in one. - [Everything You Need To Know About Being An Ambulance Driver](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/everything-you-need-to-know-about-being-an-ambulance-driver/): Being a paramedic is an incredibly rewarding career choice. It’s also one of those jobs that many wanted to do as a child, alongside fireman or policeman. It’s a heroic job option, and one that has been proven all the more essential during the current, troubling times. It’s a job where no two days are ever the same, you learn as you earn, and while there are some lows involved, there are also some amazing highs. There is a level of teamwork and camaraderie among ambulance drivers that you rarely find anywhere else, and even when you leave the job behind, that family stays with you for life. It’s a calling, really, which is why we are proud to help aspiring ambulance drivers learn the ropes. - [Covid-19 And The Haulage Industry](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/covid-19-and-the-haulage-industry/): There is no doubt that we are living in confusing times. As the Covid-19 crisis continues to spread, more and more industries are finding their operations altered or stopped altogether. But the haulage industry is too important to this country to lose, and without delivery drivers on the road every day the vital supplies of medicines, PPE and food would not be making it to their destination. But that doesn’t mean Covid-19 hasn’t had an impact. In fact, Covid has shined a light on some issues that have been around for a while, as well as created some unique problems for drivers and haulage companies to face. And with health secretary Matt Hancock announcing that he’s confident food supplies won’t run out even in the event of a prolonged lockdown, the pressure on HGV firms to keep delivering has never been higher. - [Does Your HGV Need a Dash Cam?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/does-your-hgv-need-a-dash-cam/): When it comes to essentials for a HGV driver, a dash cam might be quite far down the list. You might instead be thinking of all the things that make your day to day life a little easier – soft pillows, your favourite podcasts and audiobooks, or a fridge full of snacks to help you get through the long shifts. But while all of those things will help you get (and stay) comfortable, they won’t help protect your livelihood. That’s what a dash cam can do for you, and at The Surrey & Hampshire Training Centre we believe every HGV cab should have one installed. Don’t agree with us? Here are a just a few reasons you should think about. - [Safe Loading Practices, and Why They Matter](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/safe-loading-practices-and-why-they-matter/): During your HGV training, you will learn a lot of things. Sometimes, too much to think about in one go! But among working out how to pass your theory tests and getting the right number of practice hours under your belt, you also need to learn about how to load and unload your HGV safely. Safe loading practices are an important part of your training, and today we want to dive a little more into why that is, and give you some tips to get started. - [Where Are the Best HGV Truck Stops in the UK?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/where-are-the-best-hgv-truck-stops-in-the-uk/): If you’re a new HGV driver, you’re probably pretty focussed on learning the ropes, making sure you know your routes and getting used to how everything works. But once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll discover another element of the job you might not have expected – learning which truck stops are good, and which ones you should give a miss. In fact, service stations are a big part of an HGV driver’s daily life, and you’ll develop a list of your favourites pretty quickly. But to help you start that list, we have a few suggestions for you. - [How to Apply for a Provisional LGV Licence](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/how-to-apply-for-a-provisional-lgv-license/): If you’re looking at becoming a professional HGV driver, you may be wondering where to start. Well, if you think back to when you got your standard driving licence (which may be some time ago), there was a process you had to go through. And that process started with applying for your provisional driver’s licence. Thankfully, the process is exactly the same for your LGV licence – but with a few extra steps in the middle. But don’t worry – that’s what we’re here to talk about today. - [The HGV Medical Exam – 3 Things You Need to Know (Before You Go)](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/the-hgv-medical-exam-3-things-you-need-to-know-before-you-go/): Becoming an HGV driver is not a quick process. Nor is it easy – but that’s sort of the point. In order to gain your Driver CPC and subsequent HGV licenses, you will need to train for a certain amount of hours, go through multiple practical and theory tests and pass a medical exam. This medical exam is important, as it decides if you are fit and healthy enough to drive a heavy good vehicle professionally. It’s also the only bit you will need to repeat – you’ll need to have a fresh medical exam every 5 years to prove you are still fit and healthy. It can also be the difference between success and failure as a driver. So before you dive in, here are 3 things you need to know. - [The Truth About Working as a Self-employed HGV Driver](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/the-truth-about-working-as-a-self-employed-hgv-driver/): When you first set out down the path of becoming an HGV driver, you may not realise just how many options are available to you. As you progress through the training, you come to realise that not only could you land a dream job with an existing company, but you could very easily set up your very own HGV driving business, becoming a self-employed HGV driver. Of course, if you’ve never run your own business then it can be a bit of a daunting prospect. So, to help you out, we’ve put together a list of some of the things you would need to do to set up in business for yourself. - [What Do Grandfather Rights Mean For The Driver CPC?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/what-do-grandfather-rights-mean-for-the-driver-cpc/): Depending on your age and industry, you may not be familiar with the term ‘grandfather rights’. It’s a legal term that goes across multiple industries, and essentially means that when a new standard or law is brought in around skills needed for a job, people already doing that job are protected and considered qualified, rather than forced to down tools and train to meet the new standard. It’s designed to keep things moving smoothly and allow change to happen at a reasonable pace. Today, we want to talk about how grandfather rights apply to the HGV industry, particularly in terms of the Driver CPC qualification. - [Want To Pass Your HGV Driver Training Licence Test? Follow These Top Tips](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/want-to-pass-your-hgv-driver-training-licence-test-follow-these-top-tips/): If you’re looking to become a professional HGV driver, then you probably know you have a long road ahead of you. As well as all of the specialist training, equipment and checks you will need to go through, there are also several tests you need to pass before you get your licence. In the past we’ve talked about the different aspects of both, and given you a lot of tips to help make the theory test go smoothly. So today, we have some tips for the next stage – the practical test. - [6 Facts About HGVs, And Their Drivers](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/6-facts-about-hgvs-and-their-drivers/): Whether you drive an HGV for a living or just spend a lot of time on the road driving next to them, odds are you’re fairly familiar with the average HGV. A long lorry, carrying goods from one part of the country to another. Some of them might give you a hint as to what’s inside, with branding or colourful images. Other types will just tell you what’s inside (like chemicals for example). And others provide fodder for a brilliant new car game (what’s in the HGV?).  Whatever is inside, the truth is that HGVs are an incredibly important part of our country’s economy, and are one of the reasons businesses are able to operate in the way they do. But they are such a common sight that we often take them for granted, not really realising just how much we rely on them. So today, we wanted to bring you 6 facts about HGVs and their drivers that you might not have heard before. ## Pages - [Category C+E (HGV Class 1) Licence](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/licences-courses/category-ce-hgv-class-1/): Already holding a Category C licence? Our Category C+E HGV training package is the next step — qualifying you to drive articulated lorries and unlocking the highest-earning roles in logistics and haulage. We coordinate the entire process, from eligibility check through to your DVSA practical test. - [Category C (Class 2) HGV Training Course](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/licences-courses/category-c-hgv-class-2/): Our Category C HGV training package is designed to get you road-ready efficiently. Whether you're new to the industry or upgrading your licence, we coordinate everything - from medical and theory through to your practical test. - [Pass Protection](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/licences-courses/pass-protection/): Nerves and minor mistakes are the most common reasons drivers don't pass their HGV test first time. Pass Protection is an optional add-on to your HGV training package that covers one test element retake — giving you a safety net on test day. - [Fast Track HGV Cat C & C+E Licence](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/licences-courses/category-c-ce-fast-track/): Our combined Category C & C+E HGV training package is the fastest route to a full artic licence. Also known as a Class 1 licence, Category C+E is the highest HGV qualification you can hold - and our 24-hour programme, delivered over 6 days, gets you there for both rigid and articulated vehicles in one efficient package. - [Helpie FAQ](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/helpie_faq_page/) - [Refer a Friend And Receive £100 Cash Back!](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/refer-a-friend/): We’re so sure you'll love our service we have a Refer a Friend scheme. Receive £100 cash back for every friend you recommend that books a full course with us. - [Train Your Drivers With S&H Durham HGV Training](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/durham/): S&H Durham HGV Training specialise in providing the highest quality HGV training for the North West and surrounding areas at an affordable price. - [Cookie Policy](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/cookie-policy/): Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training - Cookie Policy - [Train Your Drivers with Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/corporate/): Whether you need one driver trained or an entire fleet upskilled, Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training offers a fully managed HGV training service built around your business. We coordinate everything — from licence category assessment and paperwork through to practical training and test booking — so you don't have to. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/privacy-policy-cookies/): Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training Ltd is committed to preserving the privacy of all visitors to our website at www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk. Along with potential and current customers. Please read the following privacy policy to understand how we use and protect the information that you provide to us. By registering on this website or by enquiring to purchase/purchasing a service you consent to the collection, use and transfer of your information under the terms of this policy. - [Demand for Drivers in the Run Up to Christmas](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/demand-for-drivers-in-the-run-up-to-christmas/): For more information on driver training, get in touch with us! At Surrey and Hampshire HGV Training, we offer a wide range of courses to suit all, from smaller LGVs to full scale HGVs. Our courses are comprehensive and designed to take you through every step of the process, from beginner to confident and qualified HGV driver. Call us now on 01276 537 400 and start changing your way of life today! - [Sitemap](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/sitemap/): If you are having difficulty finding the page you need, try our sitemap below. - [Terms & Conditions for Courses](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/terms-conditions-for-courses/): Surrey and Hampshire HGV Training Ltd makes a commitment to provide the following services to customers/trainees - [Driver CPC Training](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/cpc-2/): There are two parts to Driver CPC — the Initial Qualification and the Periodic Training Requirement. Which applies to you depends on when you obtained your HGV licence: - [Get an instant quote!](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/contact/): We arrange all aspects of training, with practical courses provided through 92+ approved UK locations. - [Why Choose Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training?](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/about/): We offer a fully managed HGV training service, coordinating every stage of your licence journey on your behalf, so you can focus on passing. From your first enquiry through to finding your first job, you'll have one dedicated point of contact throughout. - [HGV & LGV Training Process](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/training-process/): Step 3: Book and complete your theory test. - [HGV Training](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/index.php/licences-courses/): Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training coordinates the entire HGV licence process for drivers across Surrey, London, Berkshire and Hampshire. Whether you're starting from scratch or upgrading your licence, we manage every step — so you can focus on passing. - [Home Page](https://www.surreyandhampshirehgvtraining.co.uk/): Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training specialise in coordinating high quality and great value HGV training packages for Surrey, London, Hampshire, Berkshire and surrounding areas at an affordable price.