Newbie driver here. I have been knocking on agency doors since July last year when I passed my Cat. C but can’t even get a look in. I went to yet another agency yesterday to try and apply for a job that was ideal for me at the moment (weekends only) and he wouldn’t even pick up the phone and ask them. All I get is you need 2 years/180 hours etc. etc. I did some research and found the phone number for the company rang and got send your CV. I’m at my wits end. I’d work for free at the moment. Maybe it’s 'cos I’m not a bloke? Anyone any advice/know any lady friendly companies?
It’s actually 180 days not hours, and it’s the driver negligence insurance or something that scares most of them! It’s hard work at first but keep trying every agency possible and something will come your way, it’s not the busiest time at the minute either, maybe the run up to Easter etc may get the ball rolling !
I had the same problem when I started. Just keep trying and eventually someone will give you a go, you might land a crap job for a bit but it’ll get you the experience. Women are well accepted in UK haulage and although you will get the odd ■■■■ hole who doesn’t like it you generally won’t be refused work
Totally agree. But also remember that if someone promises you a job if you pass, then it’s probably at least 6 weeks before you can ring and give the good news. And in that time, the job will have gone.
And the opposite applies. There may be nothing now. Could be plenty in 6 weeks.
It’s a gamble from both sides. You pays your money - you takes your chance. But one thing is for certain - - without the licence you will never get a job.
You need to do some detective work on locating firms or owner drivers that may be starting a new business venture or adding to their fleet.
Some may have existed that you did not know about, if you go on the VOSA website, there is a list for applications, where O licence holders are updating their legal requirements.
When a firm is found, Google them to get the contact details, i have seen driver jobs in free local mags, and i have put my advert in a free truck mag, and had two calls offering me a job.
Some sites to try are Eures, Gumtree and Rapido for jobs.
Place an advert at truckstops and ferry ports to sell yourself to employers.
I am a female passed my Cat C went to work agencies for a whle it didnt stop me even in the North East where it is not really accepted that women drive ( there are a few companies who will take on but not many )
