The recent HGV driver shortage has instilled fear in the entire nation. Various factors, such as the UK’s departure from the EU and the unpredictable nature of the pandemic, have contributed to the scarcity of skilled individuals able to operate imperative trucks and lorries. According to the Road Haulage Association, the shortage of drivers has been estimated to be approximately 100,000 at one stage.
Although the initial appearance of a decrease in the number of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers in the country may not appear to be a significant issue, this problem carries greater implications. The absence of HGV drivers poses a critical threat to the nation’s survival.
Transportation professionals in this field have the important role of overseeing various aspects of transporting goods nationwide, as well as ensuring the smooth operation of events such as summer festivals.
Here, we outline five key reasons for our dependence on HGV drivers.
1. They Ensure We Always Have an Adequate Supply of Essential Items
Have you ever wondered how the fuel for your car or the potatoes for your Sunday lunch makes their way to you? The answer lies in the work of HGV drivers. These drivers play a vital role not only in transporting construction materials across the UK but also in delivering essential supplies that are necessary for our daily lives.
Skilled truck drivers play a crucial role in transporting machinery and agricultural goods for British farmers, ensuring the growth of crops and livestock. Moreover, they are responsible for maintaining the availability of essential food items on the shelves of local supermarkets. The absence of these drivers in recent times has resulted in a shortage of beloved food and beverage products that we enjoy.
A scarcity of truck drivers not only affects the availability of food on store shelves but also results in wastage of vital resources. Despite the shortage of drivers, perishable items continue to grow, leading to increased waste. Additionally, limited access to food causes prices of desired items to rise. Furthermore, HGV drivers also play a crucial role in providing us with essential supplies such as pharmaceuticals and fuel.
2. HGV drivers play a vital role in the economy. They are an essential component that keeps things running smoothly.
Almost every business in the UK depends on HGV or lorry drivers at some stage of their supply chain or go-to-market process. Retail chains rely on these drivers to transport the products they acquire from manufacturing facilities and warehouses. Similarly, fashion houses require lorry drivers to gain access to vital machinery and materials.
The UK economy faces significant challenges when there is a lack of availability of lorry drivers. Over the past few years, there have been instances where the economy has suffered due to shortages of specific goods. It is possible that you have observed certain supermarkets and stores experiencing difficulties in maintaining adequate stock levels recently.
Knowledgeable HGV drivers play a crucial role in ensuring that a wide range of products, including pet food and essential items like toilet rolls, are delivered to our communities. Whether it’s transporting goods domestically or from abroad, these drivers ensure that the products we desire reach us. Additionally, Lorry drivers are also responsible for transporting alcoholic beverages, including beer, to local pubs.
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3. They enable the existence of online commerce.
Although the Internet is often credited for the success of the e-commerce sector, it is important to recognize that it is just one component of a larger system. In order to access online stores, you require a smartphone or laptop along with an internet connection. However, the delivery of your orders to your location relies on the HGV drivers scattered throughout the country. It is worth noting that despite the online presence, many companies still maintain physical warehouses for product storage.
HGV drivers and lorry drivers play a vital role in the fulfilment process that enables e-commerce sales. With approximately 87% of households in the UK regularly shopping online, it is difficult to envision a scenario where we wouldn’t have the convenience of ordering clothing, food, and even furniture from the Internet.
E-commerce not only simplifies the lives of consumers, enabling them to effortlessly discover affordable products online, but it also enhances the global distribution of goods and provides opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Without the dedicated efforts of HGV drivers, enterprises like Amazon would cease to exist, and the ability to purchase unique handmade items from overseas business owners would also be hindered.
4. HGV drivers play a vital role in assisting the entertainment industry.
Although it may not be particularly enjoyable to be stuck behind a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver on the highway, it is important to recognize that these drivers play a significant role in enhancing our daily lives. HGV drivers provide essential support for various activities that we enjoy in the UK, including assisting in the setup of stages and transporting vital sound equipment for festivals and gigs.
Outdoor concerts, markets, carnivals, and funfairs in the UK heavily depend on HGV drivers. Without them, the transportation of rides, attractions, and sellers’ goods across the country would be impracticable, hindering our ability to enjoy these events in both summer and winter.
In the absence of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers, the production of numerous movies and TV shows that are cherished by entertainment enthusiasts may face significant challenges. These skilled individuals also play a crucial role in transporting set pieces and recording equipment required for filming scenes.
5. HGV Drivers Contribute to Environmental Conservation
While there is still much progress to be made in the transportation industry to enhance the environmental friendliness of HGV lorries, it is important to acknowledge that HGV drivers do contribute positively to the planet in certain aspects. One notable example is their significant role in minimising waste within the food and medical sectors.
Perishable goods that are not delivered promptly may deteriorate before reaching their intended location. The wastage of these essential items places additional strain on the agricultural sector, the production of freshwater, and other related resources. A study revealed that the shortage of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers resulted in the wasteful disposal of over 50,000 kilograms of fresh food within a single week.
The process of food production necessitates vast amounts of water and energy. If this valuable resource is wasted, it results in an unnecessary detrimental effect on the environment. Additionally, we may have to generate additional carbon emissions and waste more water to compensate for the loss.
Being the Answer to the Nation’s Needs
The country requires HGV drivers for numerous purposes, which is why the government is diligently addressing the increasing scarcity. Why not lend a hand and become precisely what your nation is seeking? Today, you have the opportunity to obtain your HGV licence with us and make a valuable economic contribution to Britain while earning a rewarding income.