For many years there wasn’t even a question about it: if you wanted to be an HGV driver you would get a job with a haulier. But in more recent history things have changed and a new opportunity has peaked it’s head around the door: self-employment.

But which is best? Does it even make much of a difference? Read on to find out.

Let’s take a frank and honest look at the pros and cons.

Self-Employment – the cons

• The first thing to consider is that you might not have a regular, monthly salary as you have grown used to in normal employment.
• There are more responsibilities alongside your usual driving duties to be completed – you’ve got to do some (dreaded) admin work too!
• There’s less job security – if you’re off sick, don’t expect any sick pay. The same came be said for maternity or paternity leave.
• If you want to have a pension you have to arrange it yourself.
• You might not have as many colleagues to enjoy banter with.

Self-Employment – the pros

• You really are the captain of your own ship. You get to pick the type of contracts that you enjoy working on.
• You can enjoy a greater amount of freedom and flexibility in your working hours – if you don’t want a contract because of the hours – you don’t necessarily have to take it.
• Your rewards are tied closely to the amount of time and effort you put in. More time and more effort (usually) mean more rewards.
• Typically, you can expect to receive a greater take home pay for the same job – everything else being the same.

There isn’t one best solution that suits everyone. Different drivers might prefer the security offered by employment, while others will enjoy the freedom that self-employment offers. Next time we will look at the pros and cons of employment. In the meantime have a look at how our drivers are “turbo’ing” their business for £20 a week!