Why You Should Have a HIAB License
Since last March, many companies have experienced a huge downturn in business due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sectors including hospitality and retail have been forced to temporarily or permanently close their doors, leaving thousands unemployed.
With a majority of the population spending more time at home in 2020, sectors such as distribution have been among the few to see growth. Products and services such as groceries, medical supplies, safety and cleaning equipment, and construction have never been in higher demand. Working in the logistics sector, Drive Personnel has been lucky enough to experience some of this growth, increasing our demand for drivers with specific skillsets.
What is a HIAB?
Like a ‘Hoover’, HIAB is actually a brand name, and refers to Hydrauliska Industri AB – a specific Swedish brand of lorry loaded crane which has a reputation much like the popular vacuum. Broadly speaking, a ‘HIAB’ can refer to any lorry loaded crane. Lorry loader training can differ from course to course, with training including hook, brick grab, and other variations.
What does a HIAB driver do?
A HIAB driver, or lorry loader, operates the lorry loaded crane. This equipment has a huge variety of uses, often removing the need for forklifts to be present at collection and delivery sites.
HIAB drivers will often be carrying building materials such as sand and ballast to building sites.
Do you need a licence to operate a HIAB?
Before operating a lorry loader you will need lorry loader training. If you are looking to expand your skillset and increase your earning potential, contact Drive Personnel today to find out more about our discounted training opportunities.
What are the benefits of having a HIAB licence?
As a Class 1 or Class 2 driver with a HIAB licence, it is likely that you will be in greater demand, as having a lorry loaded crane on site is very popular with customers due to it cutting forklift costs. Another benefit of working as a HIAB driver is that you can complete a number of deliveries each day without the need to use a pallet truck or tail lift to transfer the goods to the consignee. The nature of the work also means that it is more likely to be reasonably local and during daytime hours, unlike long distance haulage work.
Why are HIAB drivers in demand during COVID-19?
With many construction sites remaining operational during lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions, the need for HIAB drivers has remained consistent. As one of the few sectors which has seen an increase in demand in 2020, having a skillset required by this industry is especially useful.
Join Our Team
Are you a qualified Class 1 or Class 2 driver with a HIAB licence? Drive Personnel is always on the lookout for lorry loader drivers based in Southampton, Portsmouth, Winchester and the surrounding areas to fulfil temporary, temp to perm, and permanent roles for our clients throughout Hampshire.
Our dedicated team is available to provide help and support whenever you need them. Unlike many driver agencies, we offer a true 24 hour service, with no call centres! Our local office is manned by our experienced staff who understand what it is to be an HGV driver, the needs of our clients, and the industry. This means that they are able to provide the best possible service to help you to do your job.
Get in touch with the team at Drive Personnel today to find out more about the exciting opportunity to join our driving team and what we can do for you.