HGV News

Whether you are just finishing your HGV training and imagining your upcoming jobs or are discussing the best places to stop with others on your ADR training course, knowing the best truck stops in the UK can be valuable! 

So, what are the UK’s best truck stops ranked? 

The experts at HGV Training Network reveal all in this handy guide – so read on to find out where you should stop while out on the road!

What is a truck stop? 

Unlike car drivers who have a choice of motorway service stations and no real obligation to stop during journeys, HGV drivers face very different conditions. 

As a professional HGV driver who has passed CPC training, you will be required by law to take regularly allotted breaks – or risk losing your licence. 

Failure to do so can impact you personally but can also lead to accidents and even fatalities with other road users, most often caused by tiredness. 

Truck stops then, give HGV drivers somewhere secure where they can leave their lorry and go and relax and rest, so they are fully prepared for the next leg of their journey. 

*Are you an existing HGV driver looking for your next role? Consider HIAB training with HGVTN today and enjoy enhanced career progression opportunities! 

UK best truck stops ranked 

With over 328 truck stops to choose from (5% more than in 2017) how did we narrow down our selection to the top 5 in the UK? 

Easy – with our years of hands-on experience, we know just what it takes to be the most enjoyable place to stop!

So, if you want to know where you should be stopping on your future routes, keep reading. You’ll find an expansive facilities list (in ascending order) and a postcode for easy navigation in future, too! 

Honourable mentions

Not quite cracking the top five, our honourable mentions are worth a visit if you are in the area:

Smokey Joe’s Truck Stop – Off the M30 near Redruth

Route 74 – Junction 10 of the M74, South Lanarkshire, Scotland 

Tebay Services – Junction 38 of the M6, Cumbria

Ulceby Truck Stop – Just off the M180, near the Immingham Docks

5. The Trucker’s Rest – WA11 1SF

Offering a family-style welcome and homemade meals, The Trucker’s Rest is located between Junctions 11 and 12 of the M6. 

Recently renovated, there is now a choice of indoor and outdoor WCs and the owners are careful to position refrigerated HGVs further away so everyone can sleep peacefully. 

Just be sure to book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment.  

General facilities include: 

• Shower and WC facilities for men and women – free shower with overnight parking
• Secure parking for 110 HGVs 
• Licenced bar 
• Restaurant with home-cooked meals – offering hot and cold food
• Top food hygiene rating – 5/5 
• Rooms for hire
• Free Wi-Fi 
• Live sports showings
• No EV charging reported

Security features:

• CCTV monitoring

4. Formula Services – CH65 4LB

If you are in the North West for work, you can’t go wrong with Formula Services! 

Found near the Birkenhead and Liverpool ports, just off the M53, it’s designed to be modern and secure – making it known as one of the safest stops in the country. 

General facilities include: 

• 24-hour fuel station
• Top-rated shower facilities
• Secure parking for 120 lorries
• A shop that sells travel essentials and snacks 
• Restaurant on-site offering hot and cold food
• Free Wi-Fi 
• Self-serve kitchen access – if you prefer to make your own meals 
• On-site gym
• Games room
• Laundrette 
• Live sports showings and gaming in the 24-hour lounge – complete with massage chairs
• No EV charging reported but multiple nearby at the National Waterways museum or Cheshire Oaks

Security features:

• 60 CCTV cameras 
• 24/7 manned security guard 
• ANPR camera 
• Fully fenced site 

*With industry-leading HGV finance options from Snap Finance, a more fulfilling career is potentially just weeks away! So why wait?

3. Ashford International Truckstop (AIT) – TN24 0FL

Found at junction 10 of the M20, AIT is remarkably well-located for haulage drivers using the Folkstone terminals and the Port of Dover.

It is also very large and well-equipped providing a comfortable rest stop for drivers – just make sure you book in advance as it can get busy! 

General facilities include: 

• Fuel station
• Shower and WC facilities – for men, women, and disabled drivers
• Space for a huge 389 parking bays – but book in advance! 
• 24/7 shop, restaurant, and bar 
• Coffee shop
• Well-stocked shop with electricals, food & drink, and medication
• Bar with sports screenings
• Restaurant with a choice of nutritious meals, from carveries and steak to curries and pizza 
• Top food hygiene rating – 5/5 
• Outdoor seating
• Laundrette facilities
• Gym and weights room
• Games room 
• Lounge and TV area 
• Free Wi-Fi 
• Accommodation on-site
• Cash machine
• 4 Ionity EV chargers 

Security features:

Barbed wire fences

50 motion-sensor infrared CCTV cameras 

24/7 security patrols 

2. Chippenham Pit Stop – SN15 5LH

Found off junction 17 off the M4, this family-run business offers respite for those on the east and westbound carriageways. 

Winner of the Best Medium-Sized Truck Stop in 2023, you could find much worse! 

General facilities include: 

• 24/7 refuelling 
• Shower and WC facilities with underfloor heating
• Space for 87 parking bays
• Well-stocked shop with electricals, food & drink, and medication
• Bar with TV 
• Restaurant with locally-sourced hot meals 
• Outdoor gym 
• On-site barbershop
• Top food hygiene rating – 5/5 
• Wi-Fi 
• 4 Ionity EV chargers 

Security features:

• 24/7 CCTV monitoring 
• Night patrols from dedicated security guards 
• Membership with the Park Mark Scheme 

1. Red Lion truck stop – NN7 4DE

Located just off junction 16 on the M1, this Northampton truck stop has been voted the best in the UK by many, including the BBC! 

Described as a little gem and not one to be missed, the Red Lion offers charming, traditionally British hospitality to all who choose to stop there. 

General facilities include: 

• Comfortable separate shower and WC facilities for men and women 
• Secure parking for 150 HGVs 
• Well-stocked shop with HGV essentials, toiletries, and medication
• Bar complete with a beer garden 
• Restaurant with home-cooked meals – offering a choice of cuisines 
• Top food hygiene rating – 5/5 
• Free Wi-Fi 
• Laundry service 
• Cash machine 
• Live sports showings
• No EV charging currently but planning has been granted for 4 electric charging points (offering CHAdeMO and CCS2 charging) 

Security features:

• Infrared CCTV monitoring 24/7
• 24-hour patrols from dedicated security guards 
• Large and high mounting banks to deter intruders 
• Membership with the Park Mark Scheme 
• Security lights 

HGV Training Network – industry leaders for a reason 

HGVTN offers high-quality, effective, and personalised HGV training – while also ensuring current and future HGV drivers are happy, healthy, and up-to-date with all advancements within the industry. 

This includes making sure you know the best places to relax and explore on your allotted breaks! 

For more information about training or for anything else HGV, email the team at contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com or fill in our contact form and our approachable but experienced staff will be in touch to see how they can help.    

Wondering what trailer you’re allowed to tow with your car?

You’re not alone; plenty of people wonder how to tow trailers safely, what the legal requirements are, and whether there are any specific towing laws they should be aware of.

If you’re unsure, don’t just go hooking any old trailer to the back of your car hoping for the best. Not only could you be putting yourself and other drivers in danger by going above a maximum towing capacity, you might be breaking the law.

At HGV Training Network, we’re experts in HGV training and heavy vehicles in general – including trailers – which is why we offer expert trailer training to equip you with the knowledge and confidence you need to move trailers of all kinds safely. To find out more, get in touch with a HGVTN expert today, or keep reading to learn more.

Am I allowed to tow a trailer with my car?

Whether or not you’re allowed to tow a trailer with your car depends on when you received your driver’s licence:

If you received your licence after the 1st of January 1997, your MAM must not exceed 3,500kg.

If you received your licence before the 1st of January 1997, you can drive a vehicle and trailer with a total weight of 8,250kg (MAM).

What is maximum authorised mass (MAM)?

MAM stands for ‘maximum authorised mass’ but is also sometimes referred to in other ways, such as ‘gross vehicle weight’, ‘maximum towing weight’, or ‘gross train weight.’ In short, it is the maximum weight of a vehicle and trailer combination. 

For example, if your MAM is set at 3500kg, but the combined weight of your vehicle and trailer goes beyond this figure, this is unacceptable.

Exceeding the legally recognised MAM is a serious offence and is punishable with on-the-spot fines of up to £300. When excessive weight becomes a clear danger to other drivers, you may also be summoned to court, which is why having full knowledge of your MAM before travel is essential.

If you’re unsure what your car’s towing capacity is, you can usually find it in your car owner’s manual or attached to your trailer via a sticker somewhere on the body. Beyond this, you should contact your car or trailer manufacturer directly for more information or consult the DVLA.

Did You Know – HGVTN has over 50 professional driver training centres across the country? Click here to see a full list!

What caravan can I tow?

If you’re one of many people in the UK who enjoys a good caravan holiday, you’ll be pleased to know you’re able to tow a caravan with a standard car licence, depending on the weights listed above. 

Once again, if you passed your car driving test before Jan 1st 1997, your MAM (vehicle and caravan total weight) can not exceed 8,250kg.

If you passed your test after Jan 1st 1997, the combined MAM between your car and caravan can not exceed 3,500kg.

You should also ensure your tow bars meet all relevant EU regulations, so that they’re safe to attach to both your car and the caravan in question. If you have any concerns, speak to a HGVTN expert and we’d be happy to enlighten you.

What driving licence do I need to drive a caravan?

In either of the above scenarios, you’ll need a Category B (Cat B) licence – also known as a standard car licence – if you wish to tow caravans.

If you have this licence, simply following the rules and dates outlined above should be enough to keep you safe and legal on the road.

However, the rules change once again if your MAM exceeds 8,250kg:

• If your MAM between your caravan and car exceeds 8,250kg, you will be required to apply to the DVLA for a C1E entitlement. This licence lets you drive heavy vehicles and trailers up to 12,000kg in total weight.
• You will also need to pass a driving test to prove you’re able to handle such vehicles and trailers safely.

To find out more about this test, and the training involved, speak to a member of the HGVTN team today.

Explore trailer training with HGVTN

If you want to tow a trailer or caravan and ensure you’re fully equipped to deal with the added weight, while also being aware of all UK towing laws, speak to HGV Training Network.

We offer professional trailer training and a trailer driving test – as well as horsebox training – so you’re completely prepared to deal with the pressures of driving such vehicles and add-ons safely and competently.

To find out more about towing vehicle training and to book your place, get in touch with HGVTN today.

When beginning your HGV training, trying to understand the differences between manual and digital tachograph cards may seem confusing at first.

Today digital cards are the norm, but manual cards may still pop up from time to time.

Both cards allow drivers to record information, such as miles driven on a shift, but what’s the difference between the two?

Read on to learn more.  

What is a tachograph card?

A tachograph card is paramount in ensuring the safety of HGV drivers and others on the road. It allows domestic driver’s hours rules and weekly rest periods to be monitored and adhered to. Drivers can either use digital printout paper records or an analogue tachograph record sheet, usually depending on the vehicle.

Which digital tachograph card is only available to enforcement authorities?        

A control card is a type of digital tachograph card which is only available to enforcement authorities such as the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) and the police. Control cards can be used to carry out any necessary checks. An example of this might be making sure drivers are complying with working hours rules.

What is a digital tachograph card?

A digital tachograph card is considered current HGV industry standard. These cards can store data, including driver activities like rest breaks. Sometimes they’re called smart tachograph cards.

Similarly to a driver’s licence, a digital tachograph card, also known as a driver’s card, contains information personal to each driver, such as their name, date of birth, expiry date of the card, and a passport style photograph of the driver.

Digital tachograph cards are deemed generally more accurate than manual cards. This is due to reduced tampering risks and being less susceptible to human errors during manual entry, as they record information automatically.

How to use a digital tachograph

Cards can be checked at the beginning of a shift by another staff member. The driver then inserts their digital card into the tachograph to record information. The driver will have three options to work from: availability, break/rest and other (for example, loading or unloading goods). The digital card automatically records data and stores it onto the driver’s smart ID card.

The tachograph card can only be removed at the end of the shift, by law.

How much is a digital tachograph card?

A digital driver card costs £32 initially, with a renewal fee of £19 every five years.

Can I drive an HGV without a digital tachograph card?

It is legally required that HGV drivers use a tachograph card. But in circumstances where a tachograph card has been lost, stolen, broken, or damaged, drivers can drive without a tachograph card for 15 days or longer if necessary.

In these circumstances, drivers must prove that they cannot use their card and must keep Vehicle Unit (VU) records. These records are important if drivers are stopped by enforcement such as the police or Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA). Generally, new cards are issued within five days of receiving an application.

While manual cards are still accepted, they are less common, as all HGV vehicles require a digital card due to EU regulations (as of 2006), although analogue tachographs are still in use in some older vehicles.

What is a manual tachograph card?

Manual tachograph cards were industry standard up until around 20 years ago, which have become slowly phased out since 2006. They’re sometimes referred to as analogue tachograph cards. Manual cards use wax-coated paper discs which are inserted into the vehicle to record information. However, manual cards can be more prone to error than digital and are also easier to tamper with.

How to use a manual tachograph card

The analogue tachograph card requires manual entry from the driver. They write their details onto the wax-coated paper disc. Once completed, the driver can insert their card into the tachograph and begin their shift. The card records the vehicle’s speed, distance travelled and driver’s activity, by using a stylus to mark the paper.

At the end of the shift, the manual card needs to be removed by the driver and given to a supervisor or admin, for the information to be recorded properly.

Ready to start your career as an HGV driver?

HGV Training Network is here to guide you through the start of your career and beyond!  For more information regarding the CPC course, the team is available to support you through your training.

Have any questions?

If you have any more questions regarding HGV Training Network or a career in driving, you can get in touch with one of our friendly experts.

All qualified HGV drivers who’ve undertaken HGV training and earned their HGV licence will also be holders of a driver CPC card.

But cards of all kinds are easy to lose – how many times has your debit card slid in between the cushions of your sofa?

If you lose your CPC card and are unable to find it, you’ll need to replace it to ensure you keep hold of all the documentation that proves you’re a fully qualified driver.

At HGV Training Network, we’re experts in the realm of HGV training and everything involved in the process – including CPC training.

With this in mind, if you think you may need a replacement CPC, here are a few things you should know.

Did You Know – HGVTN is home to over 50 HGV training centres across the UK, so you’ll always have a centre close to home! Click here to get in touch and learn more.

What is a CPC card?

As you’re probably aware if you’re reading this, CPC stands for ‘Certificate of Professional Competence’.

It’s a qualification that goes alongside your HGV licence (or another licence if you specialise in a different vehicle type) that proves you’re able to competently and responsibly handle your vehicle according to the rules of the road.

Along with being a useful extra, it’s also a legal requirement which makes getting a new CPC card an important step if you find yourself without it.

When do you have to get a new CPC card?

As a rule of thumb, you should carry your CPC card with you at all times when driving professionally, as well as when applying for any new driving jobs.

This means if your CPC card has been lost or stolen, you’ll need to get a replacement as soon as possible.

The same is true if your card is damaged as this may not be accepted, depending on the level of damage and the clarity of the text. 

How do you get a CPC replacement card?

Thankfully, replacing a CPC card is relatively simple.

If your card is lost, has been stolen or is severely damaged, you can order a replacement via phone or by filling in an online form.

You can call the dedicated DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) CPC line on 0300 123 7721, or fill in the form on the GOV.UK website, though it’s recommended to request a new card via phone as it’s a far quicker process.

Want to know more about the CPC replacement? Get in touch with HGVTN and we’d be happy to advise!

Do I need to pay for a new driver qualification card?

Yes. A new CPC card will cost £25 (at the time of writing). This can be paid over the phone via credit or debit card. If completing the application process via the online form, you’ll receive a call from the DVSA in the following days to offer payment.

As soon as you have completed the application process and paid the fee, legally you’re able to get behind the wheel in a professional capacity again, despite not yet having a physical card which will be posted to your address.

Speaking of which…

Can I get fined if I don’t have my CPC card?

You may receive a £50 fixed fine if you drive professionally without your CPC card. However, this does not count if you have applied and paid for a replacement card, as mentioned above.

Do I need to do more driver training if I lose my CPC?

No, you won’t need to do any extra training if you lose your CPC, you’ll simply need to replace the card by following the steps above.

The only instance in which you’ll need to undergo driver training is when your CPC is up for renewal, which must be completed once every five years.

Choose HGV Training Network for driver CPC training and stay on the road

If you’ve reached the end of your five-year time period and you need to complete periodic training to keep your driver certificate of professional competence, don’t wait, HGV Training Network is here for you.

With many driver training centres scattered across the country and a team of experienced and reliable training professionals at the ready, we’ll help you pass your CPC renewal with flying colours.

To find out more, click the link here, or get in touch with HGV Training Network for more information.

Essential for keeping yourself and others you may encounter safe, an HGV walkaround gives you proactive peace of mind and ensures you to comply legally with DVSA regulations. 

As such, every HGV driver across the country should be doing them! 

So, to adequately prepare for your busy days, how long should a HGV walkaround take and what does it involve? 

How long does an HGV walkaround take? 

For more experienced HGV drivers, daily checks can take an average of 15 minutes a day – less time than you might spend on your coffee break! 

However, as with all things, if you are a new driver fresh out of HGV Training or a more experienced driver completing CPC Training in the UK, you should expect that your daily checks will take longer to start with. 

But don’t worry, as you become more familiar with them, the time spent checking will decrease. 

*Did you know HGV Training Network can give existing HGV drivers room for career progression? Browse ADR training today! 

Can I skip HGV walkaround checks? 

Well, you could – but we wouldn’t recommend it. 

Failure to comply with DVSA and road safety regulations can lead to:

• Accidents and incidents involving yourself and/or the public 
• Driving prohibition 
• Fines 
• Penalty points on your licence 

Plus, if you are shown to be neglecting your duties as a professional driver, there could be implications for your career and job security.

So, what exactly is included in an HGV walkaround? Keep reading to find out! 

How to complete an HGV walkaround check?

As a rough guide, a walkaround check covers things both inside and outside of the HGV. This includes: 

Inside the vehicle 

• Front view (mirrors, cameras, and glass) 
• Windscreen wipers and washers 
• Dashboard warning lights and gauges 
• Steering 
• Horn 
• Brakes and air build-up
• Height marker 
• Seat belts and cab interior 
• Security and condition of cab, doors and steps

Outside the vehicle 

• Lights and indicators
• Fuel and oil leaks
• Security of body and wings
• Battery security and condition
• Diesel exhaust fluid (AdBlue)
• Excessive engine exhaust smoke
• High voltage emergency cut-off switch
• Alternative fuel systems and isolation
• Spray suppression
• Tyres and wheel fixing
• Brake lines and trailer parking brake
• Electrical connections
• Coupling security
• Security of load
• Number plate
• Reflectors
• Markings and warning plates
• Other equipment

Browse our blog on HGV vehicle inspections to find out everything you need to know. 

*With hundreds of happy HGV testimonials from past drivers, HGVTN can support you to swap a new, more fulfilling career! n vary depending on your location, the company you work for, and hours worked.ng licence.

Contact HGV Training Network for more than just training 

While HGVTN offers high-quality and highly effective HGV training, we also do everything we can to ensure our industry is well-informed and safe. 

To do this, we also prioritise reputable information sharing – like this blog! 

To find out more about how we can help you or for a bespoke quote for a training centre near you, email the team at contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com or fill in our contact form and our lovely staff will get back to you as soon as we can.   re typically reserved for younger people looking to enter the industry after high school.

Becoming a shunter driver could be the best career move you ever make given the attractive salary and job freedom associated with this role.

But what exactly is a shunter driver and what does the job entail?

Within this blog, you can discover more about the vital role of HGV shunter drivers in logistics and construction, their responsibilities, and how to become one with HGV training.

What exactly is a shunter driver?

A shunter driver, or a yard shunter, is responsible for safely operating large vehicles across construction sites. These trained professionals are essential in the construction and logistics sectors and help to keep work yards, ports, and loading docks functioning efficiently.

HGV shunter drivers and their role in logistics

Shunter drivers have a range of duties within their job role but this may vary depending on the industry type and site where they work. For example, yard shunters may work on construction sites, loading docks, shipping yards, and more.

Their responsibilities may include:

• Directing and moving freight trains
• Manoeuvring large vehicles and trailers safely around company premises
• Coupling and uncoupling lorry trailer units
• Ensuring strict health and safety standards are followed to avoid workplace collisions and other dangers
• Conducting safety inspections
• Examine vehicles and trailers to ensure they’re road-safe
• Parking LGVs and trailers

How much do shunter drivers earn?

If you’re interested in becoming a shunter driver, you’re probably intrigued to know the earning potential associated with the role.

• Newly qualified drivers typically earn around £20,000,
• Experienced yard shunters can expect to earn between £20,000 and £35,000.
• Senior-level drivers can often earn salaries above £35,000.

These figures can vary depending on your location, the company you work for, and hours worked.ng licence.

How to become a shunter driver

To work as a shunter driver, you require a standard car licence and may need an LGV C+E driving licence (Class 1) – this licence permits you to drive some of the largest vehicles on the road, such as lorries with detachable trailers.

In order to earn your C+E licence, you must embark on a recognised HGV training course with a trusted provider – only an established company will provide you with the adequate training needed to apply for shunter roles.

HGV training courses will teach you the essential skills necessary to manoeuvre large vehicles safely and pass your practical and theory exams, which must be done before being awarded your HGV licence.

During HGV training, students learn all the beneficial skills required to become a shunter operator including:

• Reversing wide and long vehicles with trailers into loading bays
• Turning and navigating corners in an HGV
• Conducting safety assessments that prevent serious or fatal injuries
• Coupling and uncoupling trailers

Plus many more.

In addition to the above training elements, you’ll be taught critical theoretical knowledge which will help you pass your HGV theory test with flying colours!

The course also includes CPC training, which is required by law. CPC training elements ensure drivers are informed about important aspects of vehicle safety.

Plant operator apprenticeships are also available, providing shunter training and helping pave the way towards a career in shunter driving. However, these qualifications are typically reserved for younger people looking to enter the industry after high school.

Gain your LGV C+E licence today

Here at HGV Training Network, we have years of experience in the field and offer training in 50 locations across the UK.

We’re an established and reliable training provider with an excellent record of success thanks to our seasoned instructors who all boast many years in the HGV driving industry.

So, if you’re eager to switch careers and enter the rewarding profession of shunter driving, call us today to book your place on one of our training courses.

If you spend your time among horses, it’s not totally unheard of that you will need to transport them. 

Whether it’s to or from summer grazing or a stable, or even to the equine vet, horses can need to be transported frequently throughout their lives. 

But are you allowed?

What size horsebox can I drive on a car licence? 

All car drivers on UK roads can pull a horsebox as long as the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) is 3.5 tonnes or less.

However, if you passed your practical driving test before 1^st January 1997, you can legally:

• Pull a horsebox (or trailer) up to 8.25 tonnes
• Drive a horsebox under 7.5 tonnes 

As you automatically have the B + E licence.  *Did you know HGV Training Network can help aspiring drivers with many vehicle types? To find out more, explore our HGV training today!

Do I need horsebox or trailer training? 

But what about if you passed your test after 1^st January 1997?

Well, then you find horsebox training! 

Also known as trailer training, a category B + E car and trailer licence allows you to drive a rigid, laden horsebox of 3.5 tonnes. 

Likewise, you can also drive a car and pull a trailer or horsebox with a maximum laden weight of 3.5 tonnes.

But, like with a category B (car) licence, there are also date-dependent limitations here. The size of the trailer depends on the BE ‘valid from’ date on your licence – if you passed: 

• Before 19^th January 2013 – you can tow any trailer size within the limits of your car.

You’ll need to check the vehicle handbook or ask the manufacturer to find out this limit for your car. 

• On or after 19 January 2013, you can tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 3,500kg within the towing limits of the vehicle

But what if you need to transport multiple horses or your MAM exceeds 3.5 tonnes?

Category C training 

For larger loads, a category C training course should be sufficient for most, as it allows drivers to handle smaller, rigid vehicles/horseboxes over 7.5 tonnes as long as they don’t exceed 32 tonnes. 

Plus, you can also include a trailer up to 750 kg – perfect for all of those equine essentials. 

*Need a way to pay for training? With industry-leading finance options, HGVTN can get your new career off the start line in just a week!  help aspiring drivers with many vehicle types? To find out more, explore our HGV training today! 

What does MAM include? 

If you are about to move your pony pal or tow a trailer, you need to keep an eye on the MAM of the whole load. 

This includes:

• The horsebox 
• The fuel 
• The horse 
• Any bedding or straw as well as any tack

It is important to note that the actual weight of the trailer may not exceed the unladen weight of the drawing vehicle – essentially, your horsebox and its contents can’t be heavier than your car. 

Top tips

To find your car’s MAM, you can check:

• The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) plate
• The car’s handbook 
• With the car’s manufacturer

To double-check the weight of your vehicle and trailer/horsebox, travel to your nearest weighbridge. 

However, it’s worth noting that if you don’t at least roughly work it out before you get out on the road, you could be prosecuted if you are caught with excess weight, as you won’t have the right driving licence.

Travel with your horse safely with HGVTN! 

Whether you are looking for horsebox training to refresh your skills or need category C training to move multiple horses with confidence, HGV Training Network can help.

For a bespoke quote or to book at a convenient training centre, email contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com or fill in our contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!  

Given just how many duties are involved in lorry driving and how many intricate roles drivers must undertake during their day-to-day, it is understandable that many of these roles require their own unique qualifications. 

HIAB drivers are one such example of those who must earn their licences that go beyond standard HGV licences, to operate the machinery and vehicles in their care.

But what exactly is a HIAB driver? How do they differ from other lorry drivers and what does one need to do to become a HIAB driver?

At HGV Training Network, we’re home to a plethora of driving courses – including HGV training, CPC training, HIAB training courses and more – so you can gain in-depth knowledge and experience before starting your new career as a fully qualified driver. Whatever you want to drive!

Speak to a HGVTN staff member today to learn more about HIAB courses and HIAB training costs, or keep reading to gain a deeper understanding of HIAB drivers.

Did You Know – HGV Training Network is home to a fantastic finance plan that allows new students to train now, pay later? You won’t find that with all training providers. Click here to read all about it!

HIAB driver meaning

A HIAB driver is someone qualified and authorised to load, offload, transport and operate lorry-mounted cranes.

A common piece of workplace transport equipment, you’ve probably seen a lorry-mounted crane when you’ve been out on the road. They look similar to other HGVs, with the addition of a retractable crane on the back.

HIAB stands for ‘Hydrauliska Industri AB’ – a company that innovated the use of such cranes on lorries, founded in 1944. Since this time, the name of the company has become synonymous with this type of crane-equipped lorry, to the point it has become an umbrella term to cover all such lorries.

As lorry drivers up and down the country are sometimes expected to haul overly large or heavy loads and items that are difficult to manoeuvre with other equipment, these cranes can be infinitely useful, allowing the user to move the relevant goods at will, with ease.

To become a HIAB driver, you first need to earn the correct HIAB licence. You can do this by studying with approved training companies, like HGV Training Network.

Our staff is comprised of fully qualified drivers with vast experience in all aspects of the haulage and transportation industries – including HIAB driving. With our team, you’ll undergo practical training and theory revision.

We can also assist you in earning all associated qualifications you may need to drive professionally, including your CPC (certificate of professional competence) along with arranging your medical examination if this is required.

In short, we offer a comprehensive driver-learning environment that’s undoubtedly your fastest and most efficient way to drive the vehicles you want to drive to make a living.

Click here to learn more about HGVTN, or drop us a message to speak to a member of our team.

What is a class 2 HIAB driver?

Technically, all HIAB drivers are class 2 HIAB drivers.

To legally drive a HIAB, you need to have earned your class 2 licence, also known as the Cat C licence.

This licence is considered the “entry-level” HGV licence and is the most common licence held by HGV drivers across the country. Many of the students who learn with HGVTN do so to earn their Cat C licence before moving on to other qualifications if they wish.

But don’t worry, at HGV Training Network, we offer training in all of the above and more, making us your one-stop shop for all your lorry training needs. 

How long does a HIAB licence last for?

Once you’ve successfully passed all your HIAB exams and have received your HIAB licence, that licence is valid for five years, meaning you won’t need to undergo any more training or refresher courses during this time.

After five years have passed, you’ll need to take refresher training and examinations to retain your licence. 

If you’re already a HIAB driver and you’re coming up on your five-year mark, HGV Training Network is here to help with your refresher training and examinations, so you can keep hold of your HIAB licence and not lose any work.

Start your HIAB training course with HGV Training Network 

If you’re ready to take the next step in your driving career and want to master operating crane-assisted lorries, HGV Training Network is here to help.

With over 50 training centres across the UK, you’ll never have to travel too far to learn the skills and knowledge you need to become a fully qualified HIAB driver.

We offer HGV training, HIAB training, lorry loader training, ADR training and more – whatever vehicles you wish to drive, we can help you get there.

Speak to HGVTN today to find out more, and if you’re asking yourself ‘How much does HIAB training cost?’ be sure to enquire about our train now, pay later finance packages that allow you to spread the cost of your HIAB course, making it far more affordable.

If you’re already an accomplished HGV driver and are looking to change things up by switching to another area of the driving profession or you’re a budding first-timer wanting to enter the world of professional driving and start from scratch, you may have come across the PCV licence.

It’s a common accreditation, but one that is required by law if you want to drive certain vehicles with a certain number of passengers.

But what exactly is a PCV licence? What type of vehicles can you drive with a PCV licence and what do you need to do to earn one?

The experts at HGV Training Network are here to shed some light on all these questions for you, so you can make the right decision about your next training programme and your driving career moving forward.

So, keep reading to learn more. Or if you’ve already been looking for a PCV training school and are ready to dive in head-first, find out more about PCV training from HGVTN here.

Did You Know – HGVTN is home to over 50 HGV training centres scattered across the country, so you’ll never be a stone’s throw away from a professional driver training facility where you can enjoy the very best PCV training!

PCV licence meaning

PCV stands for ‘Passenger Carrying Vehicle’ and, as you can guess, you will need to earn a PCV licence if you wish to drive such vehicles professionally in the United Kingdom.

These vehicles can include buses, minibuses, and coaches. Though the specific vehicle you will be able to drive and the specific number of passengers you’ll be able to accommodate will depend on what type of PCV licence you earn – more on this in a moment.

What can you drive with a PCV licence?

A PCV licence is also known as a ‘Category D’ or ‘Cat D’ licence. If we break things down even further, the Category D licence comes in two forms:

D1 – This licence allows you to operate a minibus, but it must not seat more than 16 passengers.

D – This licence allows you to drive larger passenger vehicles (a bus or coach) with over 16 passengers. Also known as a full PCV licence.

There’s also the D1+E licence, which allows you to drive minibuses, as mentioned above, as well as trailers up to 750kg.

You’ll need to undergo PCV training with an experienced, reliable training provider like HGVTN if you wish to earn either your D or D1 PCV licence. But it should be noted that you’ll also need a full standard driving licence before undertaking any training.

What is the difference between PSV and PCV licence?

During your research into the PCV licence, you may have also come across something called the PSV licence, which stands for ‘Public Service Vehicle’.

These two terms often come up together a lot, which can be very confusing when you’re trying to figure out the exact licence you need to drive the vehicles you want to drive.

But, in this case, there’s nothing to worry about. The PSV licence is simply the old terminology that was replaced with the PCV licence back in 1992.

You might still hear the term thrown around by drivers in the trade who were still driving back in the early nineties, or even sooner, but think nothing of it. The only licence you need to focus on earning is the PCV licence.

What do I need to get a PCV licence?

As mentioned above, you’ll first need to have held your standard car licence for at least 12 months before attempting to earn a PCV licence. You’ll also need to be at least eighteen years of age.

But beyond this, you’re pretty much ready to begin training and studying to earn your PCV licence, which you can do with HGV Training Network.

It’s not too dissimilar to the training and practice you experience when learning to drive a car for the first time. As part of your preparation for the test, you’ll need to undergo practical training which involves driving a real-life passenger vehicle – you’ll need to show you can drive this vehicle competently before attempting your practical driving test.

Then, there’s also a 100-question PCV theory test you’ll need to pass. But don’t worry, when learning with an experienced training provider like HGVTN, you’ll be given all the tools you need to pass with flying colours.

If you manage to pass both your practical PCV driving test and theory exams, along with a legally required PCV medical examination and CPC (certificate of professional competence) exams, you’ll be awarded your PCV licence and will be ready to take large passenger-carrying vehicles out on the open road!e throughout 5-years and you’ll be well on your way to maintaining your professional licence and driver CPC card.

Explore HGV training and PCV driver training with HGV Training Network

Now that you’re more aware of what exactly the PCV licence is and how you can earn one, HGV Training Network is here to help you take the next step.

When training with HGVTN, you’ll benefit from learning under real-life professional drivers who have been exactly where you are and are ready to share their wealth of knowledge with you to help you pass your theory and practical test with ease.

To find out more about PCV training at HGVTN, click here or speak to a member of the HGVTN team for more information about our courses and our attractive financing options.

All aspiring professional lorry drivers must complete driver CPC training if they want to enter the rewarding field of HGV driving. But what exactly is driver CPC training, and how many CPC modules are there?

You can find out all you need to know about driver CPC throughout this blog, so carry on reading!

What is driver CPC training?

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, commonly abbreviated as Driver CPC, is a recurring professional development that continues throughout a HGV driver’s career.

Driver CPC was introduced to enhance road safety by ensuring that professional drivers are aware of updated health and safety requirements, and any other advancements in the sector.

There are two types of CPC training: initial and periodic training, both of which professional drivers must complete to drive a heavy goods vehicle legally. We’ll explain more about each throughout this blog.

What are the initial CPC modules?

Initial driver CPC training, or the CPC initial, is mandatory training for new-professional drivers. It’s for those who earned a lorry entitlement after the 9th of September 2009 and haven’t held a CPC beforehand.

The initial CPC is comprised of two elements: CPC Case Studies (CPC Module 2 Theory Test) and CPC Practical (CPC Module 4).

CPC Case Studies

The third and final test you do as part of your HGV training starts with the first part of the CPC.

CPC module 2 is a theory test that gives you seven “case studies” based on real-life situations you’ll likely come across whilst driving an HGV.

You get 1 hour 15 minutes to complete between 6-8 multiple choice questions on each case study. In total, there are 50 questions to answer and the pass mark is 40 out of 50 (80%).

CPC Practical

This practical demonstration test covers the parts of being a lorry operator aside from driving, such as vehicle safety checks.

You’ll be trained on how to conduct the various checks before taking a “show me, tell me” style examination. While showing the examiner how to perform each, you must also tell them what you’re doing.

After completing your initial CPC training, you’ll gain your driver qualification card, also known as a driver CPC card. This means you’re now fully qualified and able to use your professional licence for work!

What’s involved in driver CPC periodic training?

Periodic CPC training, or the interim CPC, is a training necessity that HGV drivers must fulfil every five years to ensure their licence stays valid.

If you drive a HGV without a valid CPC, you can be fined up to £1,000 or even lose eligibility to drive HGVs professionally – so, it’s essential that you maintain your CPC qualification.

Periodic CPC is for drivers who have held a lorry entitlement (C1, C1+E, C or CE) before 9th September 2009 or individuals who are renewing a CPC.

The training consists of classroom-based refresher modules that build on existing knowledge – with CPC periodic training, there are no questions to answer as it’s purely an attendance-based course. So, all you need to do to pass is turn up on time and don’t fall asleep!

How many periodic CPC modules do I need to complete, and how long do they take to finish?

Each module lasts for 7 hours (not including breaks), and you need to pass 5 CPC modules (35 hours of training every 5 years) to achieve your periodic driver CPC qualification.

Drivers typically choose to complete one module per year, but it’s entirely up to them how they wish to do it.

List of periodic course modules we offer at HGV Training Network

The content of periodic CPC modules varies between HGV training providers, but ultimately they all aim to improve driving skills, safety, emergency first aid, fuel-efficient driving and environmental responsibility. Here are the 7-hour course modules we offer here at HGV Training Network:

• Health and Safety & Fire Marshal
• Company Image & Driver Lifestyle
• Security & First Aid
• Drivers Hours & Tachographs
• Vehicle Checks & Weight Dimensions (Lorry Only)
• Eco Driving & Vulnerable Road Users

All you need to do is complete five of the above throughout 5-years and you’ll be well on your way to maintaining your professional licence and driver CPC card.

CPC training at HGV Training Network

In addition to our LGV, HGV and ADR training courses, we offer CPC driver training here at HGV Training Network. Initial driver CPC training is included as part of your HGV training, and we also provide periodic driver CPC training modules for those looking to keep their licence valid.

For more information, you can call our helpful team on 0800 254 5007, or we can help you book your HGV training today! or email us at contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.