HGV Class 1 Driver

Job Title: HGV Class 1 Driver (Tramping)
Location: Manchester, M17
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: Monday 29th June onwards
Freight Force Recruitment are acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this permanent vacancy.
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
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Valid HGV Class 1 (C+E) Licence
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Clean licence (no major endorsements)
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Maximum 3 penalty points
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Valid Driver CPC (International DCPC)
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Digital tachograph card
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Valid passport
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Age 25+ (insurance purposes)
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ADR licence is preferred
Interview Process
Our interview process is relaxed and professional, consisting of:
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Face-to-face discussion about the role and expectations
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Review of industry experience
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Informal conversation to understand you as an individual
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Driving assessment
The driving assessment may include:
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Vehicle familiarisation
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Trailer coupling/uncoupling
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General driving capability
Typical Working Pattern
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Start: Sunday or Monday from Manchester
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UK collections/deliveries
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Ferry or Channel crossing to Netherlands
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Work across Benelux region
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Return to UK
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Occasional UK-only week depending on workload
What We’re Looking For
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Professional and reliable driver
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Good communication skills
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Comfortable with EU tramping work
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Responsible vehicle care
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Safety-focused mindset
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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