Harbour International Freight’s head office is located in Manchester, one of England’s busiest cities, and the business provides reliable transport services across the UK, Ireland and Europe. Navigating the issues of a city centre whilst maintaining such high service levels is a testament to the hard work and commitment shown by the drivers every day.
For National Lorry Week 2024, we spoke to James Stewart and Ollie Dwane from Harbour International Freight to find out more about their careers in the transport industry.
James Stewart
When did you begin your career in the transport industry, and what job roles have you worked in previously?
I started at Asda 18 years ago and moved on to many various roles whilst there. 12 years ago, I gained my Class 2 licence and then began at Harbour Freight as a Class 2 driver around four years ago.
What skills have you learnt since being in your current role?
I’ve improved my spatial awareness hugely since beginning at Harbour Freight, as well as my communication skills and ability to stay focused and work well under pressure.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
I complete multiple drops in Manchester city centre along with collections and vehicle checks. An important aspect of my job involves communicating with customers whilst doing deliveries, and the length of my days varies depending on factors such as traffic and the amount of jobs scheduled.
What may surprise people about your role?
The tight delivery points and skills that we have to utilise on a daily basis.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Being in the city centre is very interesting as there is always something going on. I enjoy the challenge of manoeuvring around tight spaces, and I work with a great team.
Have there been any challenges you’ve faced in your role?
Navigating and adapting to the daily changes being made in the city centre such as road closures, diversions etc.
Why do you think the transport industry is so important?
Because it plays an important role in the economy and has a huge impact on the overall employment and growth of many industries.
Ollie Dwane
When did you begin your career in the transport industry, and what job roles have you worked in previously?
I started in the transport industry as a 7.5-tonne driver just over a month ago, having previously worked in joinery for six years.
What skills have you learnt since being in your current role?
The main skills I have learnt so far are how to stay safe on the road and the importance of staying organised.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
I start my day at the depot where I load up, head off on my first run with collections along the way, come back and unload and get ready for my second run. I’ll then go back out, grab the collections and get back to the depot to unload for the final time.
What may surprise people about your role?
The main thing that people don’t realise is how fast-paced the transport industry is.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Meeting all kinds of people whilst I’m out doing deliveries and collections.
Have there been any challenges you’ve faced in your role?
One of the most difficult things is navigating the tight roads.
Why do you think the transport industry is so important?
Without the transport industry, nobody would receive their goods. It really does keep the country moving.
Interested in finding out more about Harbour International Freight? Visit: https://www.harbourfreight.co.uk/about