At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive HGV Class 1 across the UK and EU, ensuring safe and timely deliveries.
- Company: Join a reputable recruitment agency focused on professional driver placements.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, holiday entitlement, and workplace pension after probation.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Experience diverse routes and modern equipment while earning great pay.
- Qualifications: Valid HGV Class 1 licence, clean driving record, and good communication skills.
Location: Manchester, M17
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: Monday 27th April onwards
About the Role
We are seeking a professional and reliable HGV Class 1 (C+E) Tramper Driver based in Manchester to undertake UK and EU movements. This role involves regular work across the UK and Benelux region. Drivers will typically start from Manchester on a Sunday or Monday, completing collections and deliveries before shipping to mainland Europe. It is common to complete 2–3 crossings per week, although some weeks may involve UK-only work. Occasional trailer swaps at UK ports may also be required. All operational planning is managed by our Netherlands office, with drivers reporting directly to the EU planning team while being employed under our UK company.
Pay & Benefits
- Hourly Rates (dependent on experience):
- Weekday basic: £16.66 – £17.85 per hour
- Weekday overtime: £21.15 – £22.31 per hour
- Saturday: £25.00 – £26.77 per hour
- Sunday: £33.33 – £35.70 per hour
- Night out allowance: £32.42 per night
Holiday Entitlement
- 20 days paid holiday plus statutory holidays
- Bank holidays accrued at 1.66 days per month
Pension: Workplace pension after 3-month probation 3% employer contribution
Breaks: 45-minute unpaid break per working day, second break rarely required
Vehicle & Equipment
You will be assigned a:
- Dutch registered left-hand drive DAF XF Super Space Cab 4x2 low ride axle
- Automatic gearbox
- Air conditioning pod
- Fridge
- Microwave
- Inverter
The vehicle will be fully valeted prior to handover to ensure it is presented in pristine condition.
Expenses & Parking
- SNAP account provided for UK overnight parking
- Pre-booked secure parking for high-value loads where required
- Expenses reimbursed weekly (typically minimal)
- Tolls such as Runcorn Bridge, Humber Bridge, Tyne Tunnel and Dart Crossing covered on account
- M6 toll reimbursed when used (rare)
Driver Performance & Safety
We operate a monthly automated telematics reporting system covering:
- Harsh braking and acceleration
- Fuel consumption
- Overspeed warnings
- Tachograph infringements
We are looking for a professional driver who demonstrates:
- Defensive driving techniques
- Compliance with regulations
- Road-condition awareness
- Safety-first approach
We prioritise safe and achievable workloads — safety always comes first.
Requirements
- Valid HGV Class 1 (C+E) Licence
- Clean licence (no major endorsements)
- Maximum 3 penalty points
- Valid Driver CPC (International DCPC)
- Digital tachograph card
- Valid passport
- Age 25+ (insurance purposes)
- ADR licence is preferred
Interview Process
Our interview process is relaxed and professional, consisting of:
- Face-to-face discussion about the role and expectations
- Review of industry experience
- Informal conversation to understand you as an individual
- Driving assessment
The driving assessment may include:
- Vehicle familiarisation
- Trailer coupling/uncoupling
- General driving capability
Typical Working Pattern
- Start: Sunday or Monday from Manchester
- UK collections/deliveries
- Ferry or Channel crossing to Netherlands
- Work across Benelux region
- Return to UK
- Occasional UK-only week depending on workload
What We’re Looking For
- Professional and reliable driver
- Good communication skills
- Comfortable with EU tramping work
- Responsible vehicle care
- Safety-focused mindset
- Flexible and adaptable approach
If you're a professional HGV Class 1 driver looking for consistent tramping work with modern equipment and fair pay, please apply today with an up-to-date copy of your CV for consideration.
HGV Class 1 Driver in Manchester employer: Freight Force Recruitment Ltd
Freight Force Recruitment is an excellent employer for HGV Class 1 Drivers, offering competitive pay rates and a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and professional development. Based in Manchester, employees benefit from modern equipment, a structured operational plan, and opportunities for cross-border travel, all while enjoying a generous holiday entitlement and pension contributions. Join us for a rewarding career where your skills are valued and your growth is encouraged.
Contact Details:
Freight Force Recruitment Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HGV Class 1 Driver in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get your game face on for the interview! We want to see your personality shine through. Be ready to chat about your driving experience and how you handle those tricky situations on the road.
✨Tip Number 2
Show us you're safety-focused! Bring up any past experiences where you've prioritised safety or dealt with challenges on the road. It’ll show you’re the right fit for our team.
✨Tip Number 3
Flexibility is key! Make sure to highlight your adaptability, especially when it comes to tramping across the UK and EU. We love drivers who can roll with the punches!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to get your application in front of us quickly. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace HGV Class 1 Driver in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your HGV Class 1 experience and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for, so don’t be shy about showcasing your driving history!
Craft a Catchy Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the HGV Class 1 Driver role. Share your passion for driving and any unique experiences that set you apart from the rest.
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point about your qualifications and experience.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Freight Force Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your HGV Class 1 regulations and safety protocols. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the role, including the driving assessment tasks like trailer coupling and vehicle familiarisation. This will show that you're serious about the position and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous driving experience, especially any work involving EU tramping. Highlight your familiarity with long-distance driving, compliance with regulations, and any defensive driving techniques you've mastered. This will help the interviewer see you as a reliable candidate.
✨Be Yourself
The interview is also about getting to know you as a person. Don’t hesitate to share your passion for driving and what motivates you in this profession. A relaxed and informal conversation can help build rapport, so let your personality shine through!
✨Ask Questions
Prepare some questions about the role and the company. Inquire about the team you'll be working with, the operational planning process, or any specifics about the vehicle you'll be driving. This shows your interest in the job and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
