Local Van Driver & Yard Support in London

Local Van Driver & Yard Support in London

London Full-Time 31000 - 32000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive vans for local deliveries and support yard operations with a hands-on approach.
  • Company: Join Lawsons, the UK's largest independent supplier of fencing and building materials.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days holiday, and ongoing training opportunities.
  • Other info: Flexible hours with clear progression opportunities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and make a real impact in your community.
  • Qualifications: Valid UK driving licence and strong customer service skills required.

The predicted salary is between 31000 - 32000 £ per year.

Lawsons is proud to be the UK’s largest independent supplier of fencing, timber and building materials. Established in 1921, with over 35 branches and 700+ colleagues across London and the South East, we continue to thrive by building lasting relationships with customers and cultivating a strong, supportive team culture.

We are recruiting a Van Driver to join our Sidcup branch. This is a customer‑facing, hands‑on role involving local deliveries to trade and retail customers, assisting in the yard, and supporting branch operations. The successful candidate will be reliable, practical and safety conscious, delivering materials professionally while maintaining high standards of customer service and vehicle care.

Main Responsibilities
  • Operate company vans to deliver materials to customers’ sites, ensuring accurate, timely and professional service; obtain signatures and complete delivery paperwork or electronic proofs of delivery.
  • Load and secure vehicle loads in line with statutory and company guidelines, using appropriate load restraint and reporting any issues promptly.
  • Receive, unload and store incoming deliveries in the yard; pick, pack and prepare customer orders for collection or delivery ensuring accuracy and safe handling.
  • Carry out pre‑ and post‑trip vehicle checks, report defects and ensure vehicle paperwork and digital records are completed accurately.
  • Use manual handling techniques and yard equipment (e.g., pallet trucks, sack barrows) to move materials safely; operate telehandlers or forklifts only if trained and authorised.
  • Deliver excellent customer service on‑site and in the yard, communicating professionally with customers and colleagues and resolving routine queries or escalating as necessary.
  • Maintain yard presentation and housekeeping standards, ensuring materials are stored safely, labelled and accessible for customers and colleagues.
  • Adhere to company health and safety policies, complete required risk assessments and follow safe working procedures, using PPE at all times.
  • Support branch colleagues with stock counts, stock rotation and basic administrative tasks including processing returns and updating branch systems as required.
  • Be flexible to cover other driving or yard duties as required to support the branch and customers.
Person Specification
  • Valid UK driving licence (minimum Category B) with a good driving record; willingness to provide details for company checks.
  • Previous experience as a delivery driver, courier or in a yard/delivery role within builders’ merchants, landscaping, construction or logistics is essential.
  • Strong customer service skills with a polite, professional and solution‑focused approach.
  • Physically fit and practical, able to undertake manual handling and outdoor work in all weather conditions.
  • Good time management and organisational skills, able to follow instructions, plan routes and prioritise tasks to meet customer requirements.
  • Basic IT literacy to use mobile devices for delivery confirmation and branch systems for stock and paperwork.
  • Knowledge of health and safety legislation, safe manual handling techniques and a commitment to follow company procedures and promote safe working practices.
  • Flexible and reliable, willing to work occasional early starts or Saturdays as required to support branch needs.
  • Team player who collaborates effectively with yard, branch and transport colleagues to ensure efficient service delivery.
Working Hours, Salary and Benefits
  • Full‑time, permanent position based at our Sidcup branch. Typical hours: Monday to Friday 07.00 - 16.30 plus 1 in 2 Saturdays mornings working 08.00 - 12.00.
  • Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£31,000 - £32,000).
  • 25 days’ holiday per year plus bank holidays and a celebration day, with entitlement rising with service in line with company policy.
  • Company pension scheme and access to Employee Assistance Programme and online GP services.
  • Comprehensive induction, ongoing training and clear progression opportunities within the business.
Why Join Lawsons Sidcup?
  • Work for a well‑established, customer‑focused supplier with a strong local reputation and commitment to quality and service.
  • Be part of a supportive, team‑oriented environment where safety and customer service are prioritised.
  • Develop your skills through structured training and opportunities to gain additional licences and qualifications.
  • Play an important role in delivering outstanding service to trade and retail customers across the local area.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you are practical, customer‑focused and committed to safe working, we would like to hear from you.

Local Van Driver & Yard Support in London employer: Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd

Lawsons is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and team-oriented work culture at our Sidcup branch. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide comprehensive training and clear progression opportunities, alongside competitive salaries and generous holiday entitlements. Join us to be part of a well-established company that values safety, quality, and outstanding customer service in the local community.

Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd

Contact Details:

Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Local Van Driver & Yard Support in London

Tip Number 1

Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Lawsons. Understand their values, products, and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.

Tip Number 2

Practice your delivery skills! Since this role is all about customer service and timely deliveries, think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve gone above and beyond for customers. Be ready to share these stories during your chat with them.

Tip Number 3

Show off your teamwork! Lawsons values a supportive team culture, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked well with others in previous roles. Highlight any experiences where you collaborated to solve problems or improve processes.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a couple of thoughtful questions ready. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you figure out if Lawsons is the right fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with your potential future colleagues!

We think you need these skills to ace Local Van Driver & Yard Support in London

Valid UK driving licence (minimum Category B)
Customer Service Skills
Manual Handling Techniques
Time Management
Organisational Skills
Basic IT Literacy
Health and Safety Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in delivery or yard roles. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for, so don’t be shy about showcasing your customer service and driving experience!

Craft a Catchy Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Local Van Driver role. Share your passion for customer service and any specific experiences that relate to the job description.

Show Off Your Safety Awareness:Since safety is key in this role, mention any relevant training or experience you have with health and safety practices. We love candidates who are proactive about safety and can demonstrate their commitment to it.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd

Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, make sure you understand Lawsons' business and the role of a Local Van Driver. Familiarise yourself with their products, services, and customer base. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the company.

Showcase Your Customer Service Skills

Since this role is customer-facing, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in delivering excellent customer service. Think of specific examples where you resolved issues or went the extra mile for a customer. This will demonstrate your solution-focused approach.

Safety First!

Highlight your knowledge of health and safety practices during the interview. Be ready to talk about how you ensure safe manual handling and vehicle checks. This shows that you take safety seriously, which is crucial for this position.

Be Ready for Practical Questions

Expect some practical questions related to driving and yard operations. Brush up on your knowledge of load securing, route planning, and using yard equipment. Being able to discuss these topics will show that you're not just a driver but a reliable team player.