HGV Driver Pay Rates Across UK Regions in 2026

HGV driver pay varies significantly depending on where you work, what you drive, and how you are employed. This guide breaks down current rates across UK regions to help you understand what you should be earning.

National Overview

The UK driver shortage that peaked in 2021 has eased somewhat, but demand for qualified drivers remains strong. Average pay rates in 2026:

• Class 2 (Category C) agency — £13.00-£16.00 per hour
• Class 2 permanent — £28,000-£36,000 annual
• Class 1 (Category C+E) agency — £15.00-£20.00 per hour
• Class 1 permanent — £34,000-£48,000 annual
• Tramping — additional £26.20 per night tax-free subsistence

Regional Breakdown

South West (Bristol, Plymouth, Exeter, Cornwall)

• Class 2 agency: £13.00-£15.50/hour
• Class 1 agency: £14.50-£18.00/hour
• Permanent Class 2: £27,000-£34,000
• Permanent Class 1: £32,000-£42,000

The South West offers a good balance of pay versus cost of living. Distribution hubs along the M5 corridor provide the highest rates, while rural deliveries in Devon and Cornwall tend to pay slightly less but offer more scenic routes.

London and South East

• Class 2 agency: £15.00-£19.00/hour
• Class 1 agency: £17.00-£22.00/hour
• Permanent Class 2: £32,000-£40,000
• Permanent Class 1: £38,000-£50,000

The highest absolute rates, but significantly higher cost of living. ULEZ charges and congestion make London work particularly demanding.

Midlands

• Class 2 agency: £13.50-£16.50/hour
• Class 1 agency: £15.00-£19.00/hour
• Permanent Class 2: £28,000-£36,000
• Permanent Class 1: £34,000-£44,000

The logistics heartland of the UK. The Golden Triangle (Leicester, Nottingham, Northampton) has the highest concentration of distribution centres and strong demand.

North of England

• Class 2 agency: £12.50-£15.00/hour
• Class 1 agency: £14.00-£18.00/hour
• Permanent Class 2: £26,000-£33,000
• Permanent Class 1: £31,000-£42,000

Scotland

• Class 2 agency: £13.00-£16.00/hour
• Class 1 agency: £15.00-£19.00/hour
• Permanent rates similar to the North of England
• Island and Highland deliveries attract premium rates

Factors That Increase Your Rate

• ADR certification — carrying dangerous goods adds £1-3/hour
• Reefer experience — temperature-controlled transport adds £1-2/hour
• HIAB/crane — vehicles with onboard cranes command premium rates
• Night shifts — typically 15-25% more than day rates
• Weekend work — Saturday premiums of 10-20%, Sunday premiums of 20-50%
• Tramping — nights away from home command higher base rates plus subsistence

At TRS Recruit, we are transparent about pay rates and work to ensure our drivers receive competitive compensation. If you think you are being underpaid for your skills and experience, talk to us about available opportunities in the South West.