Lorry Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of logistics and transportation, the spotlight on lorry drivers has never been brighter.
As the supply chain advances, the demand for capable individuals who can efficiently transport goods, navigate routes, and ensure the safety of our logistical structure grows louder.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a lorry driver?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager drafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
- Or simply intrigued by the inner workings of the transportation industry,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable lorry driver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s get straight into it.
Lorry Driver Duties and Responsibilities
Lorry Drivers are responsible for the safe and timely transportation of goods and materials from one location to another.
They are expected to adhere strictly to road laws and safety regulations as they carry out their daily tasks.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Operating and driving a lorry to transport goods and materials over specified routes to local or distant points according to a time schedule
- Inspecting vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance
- Complying with lorry driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking and break periods) as well as with company policies and procedures
- Planning routes and meeting delivery schedules
- Loading and unloading cargo from the lorry, often with the help of a forklift or other machinery
- Collecting and verifying delivery instructions, including signatures from customers
- Reporting defects, accidents or violations
- Maintaining a logbook of their driving activities to ensure compliance with federal regulations governing the rest and work periods for operators
- Keeping the lorry and associated equipment clean and in good working order
- Communicating effectively with clients or dispatchers about delays or problems on the route
Lorry Driver Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a dependable Lorry Driver to safely transport goods to various locations.
The Lorry Driver’s responsibilities include ensuring timely delivery, securing loads, refuelling, and maintaining detailed records of vehicle servicing and inspection.
Our ideal candidate is an experienced professional with knowledge of business operations and transportation regulations.
The successful applicant must be physically fit, reliable, and demonstrate the ability to adhere to all traffic laws.
Ultimately, the role of the Lorry Driver is to deliver goods in perfect condition, ensuring customer satisfaction and maintaining the positive reputation of our company.
Responsibilities
- Safely operate the lorry, adhering to all traffic laws
- Ensure timely delivery of goods to predetermined customers
- Inspect lorries for mechanical items and safety issues, and perform preventative maintenance
- Plan routes and meet delivery schedules
- Document and log work/rest periods and miles spent driving
- Comply with lorry driving rules and regulations as well as with company policies and procedures
- Collect and verify delivery instructions
- Report defects, accidents or violations
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a Lorry Driver
- Valid lorry driving license
- Ability to drive long hours and travel regularly
- Extensive knowledge of applicable lorry driving rules and regulations
- No recent moving or driving violations
- Adaptability and foresight to handle unexpected situations (traffic, weather conditions etc)
- Willing to submit to background/drug checks and provide employment recommendations
Benefits
- Competitive pay
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Uniform provided
Additional Information
- Job Title: Lorry Driver
- Work Environment: On the road, driving a lorry. Physical labor may be required to load and unload cargo.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Transport Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Lorry Driver Do?
A Lorry Driver, also known as a truck driver, is a professional who is licensed to operate and drive a heavy-duty vehicle to transport goods and materials from one place to another.
They are responsible for delivering goods safely and efficiently to their destination.
This can involve long haul journeys, often across states or countries, or shorter delivery routes within a specific area.
Their duties also include inspecting their vehicles before and after the journey to ensure that it’s in good working order and meets safety regulations.
They are also responsible for keeping logs of their activities, including rest periods, mileage, and cargo details to comply with transportation regulations.
Lorry Drivers may also be tasked with loading and unloading cargo, whether manually or using equipment.
They must ensure that the cargo is secured properly to avoid damages during transit.
They often work independently, but they have to communicate effectively with dispatchers and receivers, providing updates on their whereabouts, delays, or any issues they encounter on the road.
Lorry Drivers also need to adhere to traffic laws, use their knowledge of routes and weather conditions to plan their trips, and be prepared to handle unexpected situations like road accidents or vehicle breakdowns.
Lorry Driver Qualifications and Skills
A competent Lorry Driver should possess the necessary skills and qualifications as per your job description, including:
- Proven work experience as a Lorry Driver with a clean driving record.
- Sound knowledge of road safety regulations and trucking routes.
- The ability to use GPS devices and interpret road maps for efficient route planning.
- Strong time management skills to ensure timely delivery of goods.
- Physical strength and stamina to load and unload goods when required.
- Exceptional driving skills to manoeuvre the vehicle in different weather conditions and traffic.
- Good customer service skills to interact with clients during pick-ups and deliveries.
- Problem-solving skills to handle unforeseen situations like vehicle breakdowns or delivery obstacles.
- Attention to detail to maintain logs of vehicle repair status, working hours, and delivery of goods.
- Valid HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) license is essential for this role.
Lorry Driver Experience Requirements
Lorry drivers generally require at least one to two years of relevant experience, often gained through part-time or full-time roles in trucking or transportation services.
They are expected to have a clean driving record and must possess the necessary heavy vehicle driving license.
Some drivers may also have gained experience through vocational or technical schools that offer programs in commercial driving.
Here, they learn the basics of truck maintenance, safety regulations, and handling large vehicles.
Candidates with more than three years of experience are often considered for long haul or interstate routes, as they have proven their ability to handle the demands of the job.
Those with more than five years of experience may have some leadership or training experience in their background, and might be considered for supervisory or managerial roles within the transportation department.
This could include roles such as Driver Trainer, Transport Supervisor or Fleet Manager.
Regardless of the level of experience, all lorry drivers are required to have good understanding of road safety and regulations, load securing, vehicle inspection and maintenance.
Some roles may also require additional skills or certifications, such as hazardous material transport or operation of specialised vehicles.
Lorry Driver Education and Training Requirements
To become a Lorry Driver, the main requirement is to obtain a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) or Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) license.
This involves passing a theory test and a practical driving test.
The individual must already hold a full car driving license before beginning the HGV/LGV license process.
Several training schools offer courses to prepare for these tests, and these typically last between 5-7 days.
The courses include both classroom-based learning and practical driving experience.
In addition to this, a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a requirement for all new drivers who want to make a career from driving lorries.
This involves both theory and practical tests, and once obtained it lasts for five years.
To continue driving professionally beyond this, drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to keep their Driver CPC.
Good physical health is also important for this role, and all professional lorry drivers must undergo regular medical checks.
Some drivers may also choose to pursue additional qualifications, such as an ADR (Advisory Dangerous Goods by Road) certificate if they will be transporting hazardous goods.
Finally, experience in other driving roles or work that involves heavy manual labour can be advantageous for this job.
Lorry Driver Salary Expectations
A Lorry Driver makes an average of $45,260 (USD) per year.
However, the actual salary can vary greatly depending on experience, location, and the specific company they work for.
Additional factors like the type of load carried and distance travelled may also impact earnings.
Lorry Driver Job Description FAQs
What qualifications does a lorry driver need?
Lorry drivers must have a valid Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) or Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) license, in addition to a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
This involves passing a medical examination, theory test, and practical test.
Some companies also require their drivers to have a certain amount of on-the-road experience.
What are the daily duties of a lorry driver?
A lorry driver’s daily duties may include conducting pre-trip vehicle inspections, loading and unloading goods, maintaining a log of their activities, and delivering goods to various locations on a strict schedule.
They may also be responsible for ensuring the safe transport of hazardous materials, if applicable.
What qualities make a good lorry driver?
A good lorry driver should have excellent driving skills, including a solid understanding of road safety and vehicle maintenance.
They should also have good customer service skills, as they often interact with clients during deliveries.
The ability to handle stress and make decisions under pressure is important, as drivers often face unexpected road conditions or delays.
Finally, a good lorry driver should have a strong sense of responsibility, as they are entrusted with valuable goods and the safe operation of large vehicles.
What should you look for in a lorry driver resume?
A lorry driver’s resume should first and foremost indicate that they have the necessary licenses and certifications.
It should also provide information on their driving experience, including the types of vehicles they’ve driven and any special types of cargo they’ve transported.
Any additional training or skills, such as first aid or mechanical repair, can also be beneficial.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve revealed the true essence of being a lorry driver.
And guess what?
It’s not just about driving long distances.
It’s about ensuring vital goods reach their destination, one mile at a time.
With our definitive lorry driver job description template and real-world examples, you’re geared up and ready to hit the road.
But why stop there?
Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your road map to crafting precise job listings or fine-tuning your CV to perfection.
Remember:
Every mile driven is a part of a greater journey.
Let’s drive that journey. Together.
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