Logistics UK says the number of HGV drivers in the workforce fell by 49,000 in Q4, 2021, according to new analysis of the latest ONS statistics published in the association’s Skills and Employment Update.

Numbers of driving tests are increasing as a result of greater capacity provided by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), with the amount of HGV drivers in the marketplace appearing to stabilise.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

“The new ONS data shows attracting new entrants to the profession and ensuring sufficient tests are available, are key to the resilience of the logistics sector,” said Logistics UK director of Policy, Elizabeth de Jong.

“The long waiting list to take a vocational HGV test in Great Britain has been a key contributor to the driver shortage crisis; data in the report shows the DVSA is making progress in catching up on the testing backlog, which grew out of restrictions under the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Logistics UK will be working with its members and government to ensure focus remains on reducing the shortfall in HGV drivers.”

According to Logistics UK’s figures, 27,144 HGV vocational tests were undertaken in Q4, 2021, representing a 53.5% increase compared with Q4, 2019.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

National statistics show the number of HGV drivers in the workforce continues to fall, but this is stabilising. There was a decrease of 49,000 drivers in Q4, 2021, compared to Q4, 2019, which is broadly the same as Q3, 2021, but significantly less than the fall in the previous quarter.

“The number of van drivers in the workforce is soaring, with a net increase of 17,000 of these workers in Q4, 2021, owing possibly to new job opportunities arising in this market, with demand for online shopping increasing throughout the pandemic,” added a Logistics UK statement.

Logistics UK represents more than 7m people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.

https://logistics.org.uk/media/press-releases/2022/february/hgv-driver-numbers-stabilising-according-to-logist