LGV training: jargon-buster

Artic/rigid: when doing your LGV training you'll find LGV licences are split into two categories:

• Category C+E vehicles: also known as articulated lorries, which means the cab can be disconnected from the trailer. You'll need special LGV training to handle the rear portion of an artic. A Category C+E licence is also known as a Class I.
• Category C vehicles: also known as rigids, which means the truck is all one unit. You'll find during your LGV training that rigids are generally easier to handle. New drivers must first qualify for a rigid licence, a Class II, before doing LGV training to qualify to drive an artic.

Box van: a van or lorry that has a permanent box-shaped container attached, with rear-access only.

Containers: standardised boxes carried on LGV trailers that can be moved by road, rail or ship. Up to 40 feet in length, they conform to an International Standards Organisation (ISO) standard.

Curtainsider: a truck in which the cargo is covered with a PVC curtain for easy unloading by forklift.

Eight-legger: a truck with four axles or eight wheels. Driving an eight-legged vehicle may need special LGV training.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): the combined total weight of the vehicle and its load. LGV training courses outline the different cargo specs and regulations for UK roads.

Jack-knifing: what happens when the cab of the LGV is pushed from behind by the trailer so that it folds up at an angle like a pocket knife. Jack-knifing can be caused by slippery road conditions. LGV training helps drivers avoid jack-knifing.

Large Goods Vehicle (LGV): a vehicle that carries more than 3,500kg in gross weight. LGVs used to be known as Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs). Driving a LGV requires special training.

Operator licence: when you've completed your LGV training you'll want to work for a (or start your own) company, which will have an operator licence issued by the Traffic Commission that permits the commercial operation of LGVs.

Reefer: a refrigerated truck or trailer. LGV training courses identify different types of LGV for various cargoes.

Sleeper: a compartment just behind the cab that is used for long-haul journeys. During LGV training you'll want to consider whether you're interested in long-distance haulage.

Tachograph: required under European Union regulations, this monitors the driver's speed and driving times. LGV training courses teach you about other UK/EU road safety laws.

Telematics: an on-board electronics system for collecting and transmitting data about the condition of the lorry and its cargo. LGV training can teach you more about telematics systems.