The difference between LGV and HGV: What fleet managers need to know

In the world of commercial vehicles, the terms LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) and HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) are often used interchangeably. However, understanding the key differences between these two classifications is crucial for fleet managers, drivers, and logistics professionals. 

This comprehensive guide will dive into the distinctions between LGVs and HGVs, the licensing requirements for LGV and HGV drivers, and how Samsara can help you improve the efficiency of managing your LGV and HGV fleets. 

What’s the difference between LGV and HGV?

Though they are named differently, LGV and HGV have the same meaning. LGV and HGV are two terms used to categorize commercial vehicles in the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe. LGV stands for Large Goods Vehicle, while HGV stands for Heavy Goods Vehicle. Both terms refer to vehicles with a gross vehicle weight over 3.5 tonnes, which are used for transporting goods or payload. 

Historically, the term HGV was used in the UK to describe commercial trucks over 3.5 tonnes, while LGV referred to vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes. However, in 1992, the UK aligned its terminology with the European Union’s (EU) vehicle classification system. Since then, LGV has become the official EU term for all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, encompassing both the previous LGV and HGV categories.

An important note to make is that LGV does not mean Light Goods Vehicle, which refers to smaller commercial vehicles under 3.5 tonnes. This common misconception can lead to confusion when discussing vehicle classification and driving licence requirements.

Today, LGVs and HGVs are essentially the same and used interchangeably, with both terms referring to commercial vehicles over 3.5 tonnes used for goods transportation. The term HGV is still widely used in the UK, while LGV is the official EU designation. Understanding this terminology is crucial for ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining clear communication within the logistics industry.

Vehicle classification and categories for LGV and HGV

Vehicle classification for LGVs and HGVs is determined by several factors, including the vehicle's weight, number of axles, and intended purpose. Understanding these classifications is essential for ensuring that drivers hold the appropriate licences and comply with relevant regulations.

The main categories for LGV licences and HGV licences are:

1. Category C: This licence allows drivers to operate vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with a rigid body and no more than 8 passenger seats. Examples include trucks, tippers, and flatbeds.

2. Category CE: Also known as "Class 1," this licence covers vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with a detachable or separate trailer. Drivers with a Category CE licence can operate articulated lorries and drawbar combinations.

3. Category C1: This subcategory applies to vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes, with a trailer up to 750kg. Drivers with a Category B (car) licence obtained before January 1, 1997, automatically hold a C1 entitlement.

4. Category C+E: The highest-level driving licence, LGV C+E allows you to drive vehicles over 3,500 kg with trailers exceeding 750 kg. This licence covers all Class 2 driving jobs.

To operate vehicles falling under these categories, drivers must undergo specific HGV training or LGV training and pass both theory and practical tests. After completing training courses, drivers must also meet medical requirements and maintain a valid Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

The vehicle classification and corresponding licence categories determine the types of vehicles a driver can legally operate. For example, a driver with only a Category C licence cannot drive an articulated lorry, as this requires a Category CE licence. Employers must ensure that their drivers hold the appropriate licences for their assigned vehicles to maintain compliance and avoid penalties.

Licensing requirements for LGV drivers and HGV drivers

To become a qualified LGV driver or HGV driver in the UK, individuals must follow a specific process and meet several requirements. The key steps include:

1. Medical assessment: Prospective drivers must undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the necessary health standards. This typically involves a vision test and an assessment of overall fitness to drive.

2. Theory tests: Candidates must pass a series of theory tests, including a multiple-choice test on road safety and regulations, as well as a hazard perception test.

3. Practical training: Aspiring drivers must complete comprehensive LGV driver training with an approved training provider. This hands-on training covers vehicle handling, safety procedures, and defensive driving techniques.

4. Practical test: After completing training, candidates must pass a practical driving test, which assesses their ability to operate the vehicle safely and efficiently in various road conditions.

5. Driver CPC certification: In addition to the licence, drivers must obtain a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This involves completing a series of mandatory training modules covering topics such as driver safety, fuel efficiency, and legal compliance.

Compliance with UK and EU regulations is crucial for both drivers and fleet operators. Drivers must ensure they hold the appropriate licence category for the vehicles they operate, adhere to driver hours regulations, and maintain accurate records. Fleet managers are responsible for verifying driver qualifications, scheduling regular training, and ensuring vehicles are maintained to legal standards.

The specific licence category required depends on the type of vehicle being operated:

• Category C: Rigid vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with a trailer up to 750kg

• Category CE: Articulated vehicles and drawbar combinations over 3.5 tonnes

• Category C1: Rigid vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes with a trailer up to 750kg

Obtaining the appropriate LGV or HGV licence is essential for drivers to legally operate commercial vehicles and for fleet operators to maintain a compliant and safe operation. Investing in comprehensive training not only ensures regulatory compliance but also promotes a culture of safety and professionalism within the transport industry.

LGV vs. HGV: Key distinctions that set them apart

While LGV and HGV are often used interchangeably, there are some key distinctions between the two categories based on vehicle weight classifications, payload capacity, and typical usage scenarios.

Vehicle weight classifications

LGVs generally refer to vehicles with a gross weight over 3.5 tonnes, while HGVs are a subset of LGVs with a gross weight exceeding 7.5 tonnes. The weight classifications in Great Britain are divided into:

• HGV Class 1: Vehicles between 7.5 and 44 tonnes

• HGV Class 2: Vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes

Payload capacity

Due to their larger size and weight, HGVs typically have a higher payload capacity compared to LGVs. This means they can transport heavier and bulkier goods, making them suitable for long-haul transportation and industrial applications.

Vehicle types

LGVs encompass a wide range of commercial vehicles, including: 

• Rigid trucks

• Box trucks

• Flatbeds 

• Curtainsiders

• Refrigerated trucks

HGVs, on the other hand, are primarily associated with larger vehicles such as:

• Articulated lorries (tractor units with semi-trailers) 

• Drawbar combinations (rigid trucks towing a trailer)

• Large tankers 

• Specialized heavy-duty vehicles (such as mobile cranes)

How the differences between HGVs and LGVs impact fleet management 

The differences between LGVs and HGVs have significant implications for fleet management and logistics operations:

1. Routing and access restrictions: HGVs may face more routing restrictions due to their size and weight, such as limited access to certain roads or urban areas. Fleet managers must carefully plan routes to ensure compliance with traffic regulations.

2. Driver licensing: Drivers operating HGVs require specific driving licences (Category C or CE) and additional training, such as the Driver CPC. Fleet managers must ensure drivers have the appropriate qualifications for the vehicles they operate.

3. Maintenance and repair: Due to their size and complexity, HGVs may require specialized maintenance facilities and longer downtime for repairs. Fleet managers must plan for maintenance schedules to minimize disruptions.

4. Fuel consumption and efficiency: HGVs typically consume more fuel than LGVs due to their larger engines and heavier loads. Fleet managers must implement fuel management strategies and driver training to optimize fuel efficiency.

5. Compliance and safety: HGVs are subject to stricter regulations regarding driver hours, tachograph usage, and vehicle inspections. Fleet managers must have robust systems in place to ensure compliance and maintain a strong safety record.

Understanding the differences between LGVs and HGVs is crucial for effective fleet management and optimizing logistics operations. By tailoring strategies based on vehicle classifications, fleet managers can ensure regulatory compliance, maximize efficiency, and deliver goods safely and reliably.

How to improve HGV and LGV fleet management with Samsara Fleet Telematics

Samsara offers a leading Fleet Telematics solution that helps with safety, compliance, and efficiency. With GPS tracking for vehicles and assets, dash cams, intuitive tools for compliance, and more, Samsara is a complete telematics system that helps create a unified fleet management platform for HGVs, LGVs, or any other heavy-duty vehicle.

Samsara is trusted by leading organisations across the UK. Take FM Conway for example, a London based company that provides a variety of services needed to keep infrastructure operating effectively and efficiently—from highway maintenance, to civil engineering and traffic management. With Samsara, FM Conway was able to design a 10 year safety strategy focused on driver coaching and mitigating risk. As a result, they mitigated the possibility of life changing harm across 16 million miles driven annually, altogether reducing road accidents by 21.9%.

Want to learn more about how Samsara can improve fleet management for HGV vehicles and more? Explore our Fleet Telematics solution, and get in touch for a demo or free trial today.