How to quickly find your first job as a lorry driver as a beginner
Choosing a new direction brings nerves. You know you want to drive. Long days, being out on your own, freedom. But without experience, the first step seems bigger than it actually is. Fortunately, you can already start finding lorry driver vacancies today. There are plenty of companies looking for beginners. In these places, you’ll learn the trade on the job, with colleagues to guide you. By searching smartly and applying purposefully, you’ll make the switch to your new profession in no time.
Companies open to beginner drivers
Not every haulage company requires years of experience. In fact, many employers are keen for motivated new drivers they can train themselves. Large logistics firms, distribution centres and fresh food suppliers are increasingly working with training programmes. Here, for instance, you might ride along as a co-driver or start with a set route locally. This way, you get to know the job in a safe environment. In practice, this could mean starting in shop deliveries or with regional transport. You’ll have immediate responsibility, but there’s also space to grow.
Some employers offer in-house training where you learn everything about loading, unloading, route planning and customer contact. These kinds of opportunities are ideal if you’ve just got your C or CE licence. You’ll get structure, support and often a dedicated mentor to help you on your way. Think of supermarket distribution or daily fresh deliveries where you return home each day. That makes it easier to combine with a family or other commitments.
How work placements or apprenticeships open doors in transport
If you’ve just left school or are a career-changer, you have a better chance through a work-based learning scheme. Many logistics companies operate with BBL-programmes (work and learn). You work four days a week and go to school one day. You get paid and immediately gain work experience. This is a valuable way to get started without risk. Even if you already have a licence but no work experience, a placement period is a good solution. Some companies let you try out for a few weeks. If it goes well, you can stay on afterwards.
This shows you’re motivated and take the profession seriously. Companies like investing in people who really want to take the step. It also helps if you know a bit about the sector. Think of basic knowledge of tachographs, rest times or loading techniques. You can easily learn these things online or in a short course. This shows initiative and makes your first impression at interviews stronger.
Where you can find vacancies with no experience required
There’s lots online, but you need to know where to look. Job boards sometimes give little detail on support or entry-level options. It’s better to search through agencies specialising in the transport sector. IQ Select is one of these. They work all over the Netherlands and are in daily contact with companies looking for new drivers. What sets them apart is their focus on permanent positions. Not just odd jobs or temporary work, but long-term cooperation.
You get not just a job advert, but also advice. They think along with you, introduce you to suitable companies, and guide the application process. Sometimes, they even arrange a trial day for you to shadow. That’s especially nice as a beginner. You can ask questions, get a feel for the place, and see if it suits you. They also often have access to vacancies you won’t easily find online. They know the market, where staff are needed, and can move quickly.
