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The skills shortage in logistics and transport is attracting plenty of publicity, along with a number of high-profile campaigns designed to encourage new recruits to the industry. But for those already working in the industry - doing haulage jobs or in management and administration - there is also plenty of support and training available. Rapidly advancing technology and an expected influx of new blood to the industry means it's more important than ever for the existing workforce to upskill, engage, and invest in their own professional development. FTA Courses The Freight Transport Association (FTA) of the UK is committed to the promotion of improvement and innovation through training and offers a host of courses across multiple sites. They also deliver some of their courses on an e-learning basis, meaning participants can complete them at their own pace and reduce the hours spent away from work. Undertaking any of these courses increases the professional opportunities for those already employed in haulage jobs. Dangerous goods: Any driver who is contracted to transport dangerous goods is required to have safe carriage training.This course can be completed as specialist training package or a full qualification (ADR or DGSA). Technical training: The range of technical training is designed for the upskilling of workshop and warehouse workers, and includes courses like Trailer and Defect Inspection; Workshop Engineering Management; Yard Shunter; and Basic Safe Loading of Goods Vehicles. Compliance management: This range of courses is aimed at employees responsible for the logistical aspects of a transport business. Participants can pick and choose from different streams of study to create a bespoke training package. Transport management: For those looking to move into management positions, the Transport Management CPC is an essential qualification. Study can be undertaken in a variety of ways to increase flexibility and tailor the learning to individual operational processes. Commercial fleet management: For existing transport managers, this course offers a Level 3 qualification. Study provides a platform of learning in the aspects of transport regulations, acumen, communications skills and contracts. CPC Renewal The CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is mandatory for HGV drivers doing haulage jobs, and it needs to be renewed every five years. Drivers must complete 35 hours of approved training within a five-year period, and are encouraged to spread the training sessions rather than attempt to complete them all in one go. The FTA runs sessions for complying with CPC requirements and have recently set up the Driver CPC Consortium, which facilitates the training needs of haulage workers on an individual basis. There are also plenty of other training centres offering CPC related courses, but it’s imperative that they are endorsed by the government. For anyone wishing to move into management or diversify their skills within the transport and logistics industries, completing courses like the ones above can offer a valuable insight and provide the necessary qualifications to progress in an exciting and rewarding career. Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day haulage jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 4,000 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.
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