Go behind the wheel with a UK-based HGV owner-driver for a week of delayed payments, LEZ pain, and daily DIY logistics.
Monday: New Week, No Load
Started fresh, full of optimism. Logged into the load board. Nothing but crumbs. Ended up taking a job that barely covers fuel. Broker says payment in 45 days. “It’s standard,” he chirps. So is heartburn, mate.
Lesson: Independence is expensive.
Tuesday: LEZ and Other Bad Words
Ran into the London LEZ. £100 later, I’m rethinking every route. Spent an hour recalculating the job and realised I’m technically paying to work today. Also, someone nicked my wing mirror cover overnight. Cheers, Croydon.
Highlight: Free coffee at the loading bay. Tasted like regret but it was free.
Wednesday: Vanishing Pallet
Customer swears I didn’t deliver pallet 5. I did. Even got a signature. Turns out the forklift driver moved it and forgot. I lost half a day arguing, unpaid. Nobody’s liable but me.
Moral: The more proof you carry, the less they’ll look at it.
Thursday: The Joy of Silence
Spent the day cruising the M6 with no delays and no calls. Bliss. Ate my sandwich in a layby, watching a squirrel nick someone’s crisps. Brief moment of serenity.
Win: Found a new services with clean loos. It’s the little things.
Friday: Invoice Insanity
Chased four unpaid invoices. Broker “forgot” to process two. One’s “pending,” one’s gone “to accounts.” Meanwhile, I’m budgeting based on vibes and prayer. Truck needs a new starter motor too.
Takeaway: Owner-driver = driver, planner, bookkeeper, and mug.
Final Thoughts
Being an owner-driver isn’t just about freedom — it’s responsibility on wheels. But when everything goes right (rare, but glorious), it reminds you why you started.
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