Introduction
If you’re considering a career in HGV driving and live in or around Suffolk, you’re in the right place. With a growing demand for qualified drivers and a variety of industries that rely on road transport, HGV jobs in Suffolk offer excellent salaries, job security, and career progression.
Whether you’re a new driver looking to get qualified or an experienced HGV driver seeking better opportunities, Suffolk provides a wealth of employment prospects in logistics, construction, retail, and specialist transport services.
What We’ll Cover in This Guide
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The types of HGV jobs available in Suffolk and which industries are hiring.
- Salary expectations for new and experienced drivers.
- How to get an HGV licence and the step-by-step process for becoming a qualified driver.
- Where to find HGV training in Suffolk and how to choose the right training provider.
- What employers look for when hiring HGV drivers.
- The long-term career prospects and additional qualifications that can boost your earnings.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to start or advance your HGV career in Suffolk and how HGV Learning can help you get the training and support you need.
What Types of HGV Jobs Are Available in Suffolk?
Suffolk is home to a diverse range of HGV jobs, from local delivery routes to long-haul transport. Some of the most common job opportunities include:
Class 1 (Category C+E) HGV Driving Jobs
- Long-distance haulage
- Container transport to and from Felixstowe Port
- International freight transport
- Supermarket and warehouse distribution
Class 2 (Category C) HGV Driving Jobs
- Local deliveries for retail and food suppliers
- Construction site deliveries (bricks, cement, scaffolding, etc.)
- Waste management and recycling transport
C1 (Small HGV) Driving Jobs
- Parcel and courier services
- Ambulance and medical supply transport
- Specialist trade deliveries
Suffolk has a thriving logistics sector, particularly around Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, and Felixstowe, where many haulage companies and distribution centres are based.
Who Is Hiring HGV Drivers in Suffolk?
Suffolk is home to a thriving transport, logistics, and supply chain industry, making it a prime location for HGV drivers seeking long-term employment and career growth. With major ports, distribution centres, supermarkets, and infrastructure projects requiring reliable transportation, there is a constant demand for skilled HGV drivers across multiple industries.
If you’re looking for a secure, well-paid job as an HGV driver in Suffolk, here are some of the key sectors hiring:
1. Logistics and Freight Companies
One of the biggest employers of HGV drivers in Suffolk is the logistics and freight sector. Suffolk is strategically located near Felixstowe Port, one of the UK’s busiest container ports, meaning that a large proportion of imported and exported goods travel through the region.
HGV drivers are needed for:
- Container transport – Moving goods from Felixstowe to major distribution hubs across the UK.
- Pallet distribution – Transporting palletised goods between warehouses, manufacturers, and retailers.
- Courier and parcel delivery – Companies such as DPD, DHL, UPS, and Royal Mail operate large-scale delivery networks, requiring local and long-haul drivers.
With global supply chains relying on efficient transport networks, there is ongoing demand for HGV drivers in this sector. Many companies offer attractive salaries, overtime pay, and opportunities for career progression.
2. Supermarkets and Retail Chains
Large supermarket chains and retail companies depend on HGV drivers to keep their supply chains running efficiently. Suffolk is home to multiple distribution centres and warehouse hubs that supply Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, Asda, and Co-op stores across the East of England.
Common HGV roles in this sector include:
- Chilled and frozen goods delivery – Transporting fresh and frozen produce from food suppliers to supermarkets.
- Stock replenishment deliveries – Delivering household and consumer goods from warehouses to store locations.
- Home delivery logistics – Large retailers such as Amazon, Argos, and John Lewis use HGV drivers to fulfil online orders.
This sector is particularly stable, with year-round demand for drivers and structured shift patterns offering both full-time and part-time opportunities.
3. Construction Industry
The construction industry in Suffolk relies on HGV drivers to transport building materials, plant machinery, and heavy equipment to work sites across the county. Builders’ merchants, contractors, and civil engineering firms frequently recruit drivers for:
- Tipper truck driving – Delivering sand, gravel, and aggregates to construction sites.
- Cement mixer transport – Supplying ready-mix concrete for building projects.
- Crane lorry operation (HIAB drivers) – Transporting and lifting large construction materials such as steel beams and scaffolding.
- Heavy plant machinery transportation – Moving excavators, bulldozers, and cranes between work sites.
As Suffolk continues to expand, with housing developments, infrastructure upgrades, and commercial building projects, there is strong demand for HGV drivers in the construction industry. Many of these roles offer high wages and additional shift allowances.
4. Agricultural and Food Distribution
Suffolk has a strong agricultural sector, producing wheat, barley, sugar beet, fruit, vegetables, and livestock. This industry depends heavily on HGV drivers to transport farm produce, feed, fertiliser, and equipment.
HGV driving roles in the agricultural sector include:
- Grain transport – Hauling crops from farms to mills and processing plants.
- Livestock transport – Moving cattle, sheep, and poultry between farms and abattoirs.
- Cold storage and refrigerated transport – Distributing perishable food products to retailers and food suppliers.
- Fertiliser and feed distribution – Delivering bulk agricultural products to farmers.
During harvest season, there is a particular demand for seasonal HGV drivers to assist with increased transport needs. Many drivers in this sector enjoy the rural driving routes and varied workloads.
5. Public Sector and Waste Management
Local councils and private waste management companies in Suffolk regularly hire HGV drivers for:
- Refuse collection and recycling transport – Driving bin lorries to collect waste from residential and commercial properties.
- Highway maintenance – Transporting road repair materials and operating maintenance vehicles.
- Bulk water and sewage transport – Supporting water and environmental management operations.
HGV jobs in the public sector often come with excellent job security, structured working hours, and pension schemes, making them a popular choice for long-term employment.
6. Fuel and Hazardous Goods Transport
For drivers looking for specialist HGV jobs in Suffolk, fuel and hazardous goods transport presents some of the highest-paying opportunities. Companies involved in petroleum, gas, chemical distribution, and tanker transport require ADR-certified drivers to operate safely under strict regulations.
Roles in this sector include:
- Fuel tanker driving – Transporting petrol and diesel to fuel stations.
- Chemical and hazardous goods transport – Delivering industrial chemicals and flammable materials.
- Liquid bulk transport – Hauling bulk liquid loads such as milk, food oils, and industrial fluids.
ADR drivers typically earn higher salaries due to the increased level of responsibility and regulatory compliance required for handling hazardous materials.
Why Suffolk Is a Great Location for HGV Jobs
- Strong transport infrastructure – Suffolk has major road links via the A14, A12, and A140, connecting to key logistics hubs.
- Access to Felixstowe Port – As the UK’s largest container port, Felixstowe creates thousands of jobs for HGV drivers.
- Diverse employment sectors – Drivers can choose from local delivery, long-haul transport, specialist transport, or public sector roles.
- Growing demand for drivers – The national shortage of HGV drivers means that qualified drivers in Suffolk are in high demand.
How HGV Learning Can Help You Get an HGV Job in Suffolk
At HGV Learning, we provide industry-leading training and career support to help you secure HGV jobs in Suffolk. Our services include:
- DVSA-approved HGV training courses for Class 1, Class 2, and C1 licences.
- Flexible training schedules to fit your availability.
- Job placement assistance with top logistics and transport companies in Suffolk.
- Specialist training for ADR, HIAB, and CPC certifications.
- High pass rates and expert tuition from experienced instructors.
With strong employer connections and tailored career guidance, we ensure that every driver who trains with us is job-ready.
Start Your HGV Career in Suffolk Today
If you’re looking for a stable, well-paid career as an HGV driver, now is the perfect time to start. Suffolk offers a wide range of driving opportunities, and with the right training, you can secure a job that suits your skills and lifestyle.
📞 Contact HGV Learning today to book your HGV training and take the first step toward a successful career in HGV driving in Suffolk.
What Are the Salary Expectations for HGV Jobs in Suffolk?
HGV driver salaries in Suffolk depend on experience, licence type, and specialisation. On average, you can expect:
- Newly Qualified Class 2 Drivers: £28,000 – £34,000 per year
- Experienced Class 2 Drivers: £35,000 – £40,000 per year
- Newly Qualified Class 1 Drivers: £32,000 – £38,000 per year
- Experienced Class 1 Drivers: £40,000 – £50,000 per year
- Specialist HGV Drivers (ADR, HIAB, Tanker): £50,000+ per year
Some companies also offer overtime, night shift premiums, and bonuses, increasing overall earnings.
How to Get an HGV Job in Suffolk
If you’re ready to start a career in HGV driving, follow these steps:
- Get Your HGV Licence – Start by training for a Category C (Class 2) licence or go straight for a Category C+E (Class 1) licence for long-haul jobs.
- Pass Your CPC Qualification – Complete your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to drive professionally.
- Gain Driving Experience – Many employers prefer 1-2 years of experience, but some companies offer entry-level positions for new drivers.
- Apply for Jobs – Check job boards, logistics company websites, and recruitment agencies for HGV job openings in Suffolk.
- Consider Specialist Training – Obtaining additional ADR (hazardous goods), HIAB (lorry-mounted crane), or tanker driver qualifications can boost job opportunities and salary.
HGV Training in Suffolk – Where Can You Train?
If you need an HGV licence, you’ll need to train at an approved HGV training centre. At HGV Learning, we offer:
- Fully accredited HGV training courses for Class 1, Class 2, and C1 licences.
- Flexible training schedules with full-time and part-time options.
- Hands-on, practical training with experienced instructors.
- High pass rates and tailored support to help you succeed.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your licence, HGV Learning provides expert training in Suffolk to help you get qualified and job-ready.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for HGV jobs in Suffolk, now is the perfect time to start your journey. With high demand for drivers, competitive salaries, and strong job security, it’s an excellent career choice.
What We’ve Covered in This Guide:
- Types of HGV jobs available in Suffolk – Class 1, Class 2, C1, and specialist roles.
- Major industries hiring HGV drivers – Logistics, retail, construction, and more.
- Salary expectations – What new and experienced drivers can earn.
- How to get an HGV job in Suffolk – Training, licensing, and job search tips.
- Where to find HGV training in Suffolk – How to choose the right provider.
Get Started with HGV Learning Today
If you’re ready to start a new career as an HGV driver or advance in the industry, HGV Learning is here to help. We offer professional training, expert instructors, and job placement support to get you on the road quickly.
📞 Contact HGV Learning today to book your HGV training in Suffolk and take the first step towards a successful and rewarding driving career.
