Van Driver

Van drivers collect and deliver a vast range of goods, including furniture, domestic appliances, computers and food and drink.

The work usually includes:

• planning the delivery route and adapting it as necessary
• loading, or supervising the loading of the van and securing the load
• carrying out basic vehicle safety checks before setting off
• following driving regulations, including speed and load limits
• unloading, or supervising the unloading of items at customers' premises
• obtaining signed receipts for the goods that are delivered.

Van drivers usually work between 35 and 40 hours a week. Working hours can vary and may include early start times, evenings and weekends. Drivers may be required to work shifts but they are legally limited to a maximum of nine hours' driving on most days.

Van drivers usually have to spend long periods of time in the van, and the work may involve lifting and carrying.

Salaries may range from around £11,500 to approximately £23,000 a year.

Van drivers need to:

• concentrate and stay alert while driving
• drive safely and conserve fuel
• understand driving and other laws
• have an awareness of safety when loading and unloading
• be alert to security risks when carrying valuable goods
• have good knowledge of the area or good navigation skills
• enjoy driving.

There are over 200,000 van drivers in the UK. The number has reduced during the recession but vacancies for qualified drivers are still being advertised.

Vacancies occur throughout the UK with manufacturing, parcel delivery, wholesale and retail organisations amongst others as well as in local and national government departments and the armed forces. Some drivers are self-employed.

No formal academic qualifications are needed to become a van driver, but good English and maths are useful. Applicants must have an appropriate driving licence and a good driving record.

Apprenticeships in carry and deliver goods may be available.

Initial training is often provided via short in-house induction courses and on the job. Van drivers may work towards an NVQ Level 2 in carry and deliver goods or Levels 2 and 3 in driving goods vehicles.

Van drivers may move into other jobs in transport, distribution and retail. They may move to clerical, administrative or warehouse posts or become LGV drivers, transport controllers and managers.

Further details