Barker and Stonehouse HGV Class 1 Driver Interview Questions and Answers
As a career coaching professional with over 25 years of helping candidates succeed, I cannot stress enough the importance of preparing thoroughly for your job interview. If you are applying for the role of HGV Class 1 Driver at Barker and Stonehouse, then you are aiming for a position that is vital to the company’s operations. Barker and Stonehouse is one of the UK’s leading furniture retailers, and the HGV Class 1 Driver role ensures that large and often high-value furniture items are transported safely and efficiently to distribution centres, showrooms, and customers’ homes.
The average salary for an HGV Class 1 Driver in the UK typically ranges between £32,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience and location. At Barker and Stonehouse, drivers are not only expected to operate their vehicles safely but also to represent the company’s brand, professionalism, and customer service standards on the road. This means your job interview preparation should cover both technical driving expertise and interpersonal skills.
Let’s now go through 25 common interview questions and answers you are likely to encounter when applying for a Class 1 Driver role with Barker and Stonehouse, along with examples of how to answer them using structured approaches such as the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
This is often an opening question. Keep it professional and focused on your driving experience.
Sample Answer: “I have been an HGV Class 1 Driver for over seven years, working across regional and long-haul routes. I hold a clean driving licence and full CPC. I’m proud of my safety record and commitment to punctual deliveries. I’m particularly drawn to Barker and Stonehouse because of your reputation for quality service and customer care.”
2. What interests you about working for Barker and Stonehouse?
Show that you’ve researched the company.
Sample Answer: “Barker and Stonehouse is a well-established British furniture retailer known for sustainable practices and excellent customer service. I want to be part of a company where the role of driver goes beyond transport and plays a key part in the customer journey.”
3. What do you think the main responsibilities of a Class 1 Driver here will be?
Demonstrate awareness of the role.
Sample Answer: “Safe operation of HGV vehicles, timely delivery of furniture to stores and customer homes, load securing, maintaining vehicle condition, and ensuring excellent customer interaction during deliveries.”
4. How do you ensure safe driving and compliance with UK road regulations?
This checks regulatory knowledge.
Sample Answer: “I always carry out thorough vehicle checks before departure, maintain tachograph records, adhere to rest periods, and stay updated with DVSA regulations.”
5. Tell us about a time you dealt with a difficult customer.
Use STAR model.
Sample Answer: “On one delivery, a customer was frustrated about a delay caused by traffic. I calmly explained the situation, apologised, and helped position the furniture in their chosen room. They thanked me for my professionalism, and the company received positive feedback.”
6. How do you handle tight delivery schedules?
They want to know about planning.
Sample Answer: “I plan routes in advance using digital mapping tools, factor in rest breaks, and communicate proactively with logistics teams if delays occur. I balance punctuality with safety.”
7. Describe your experience with vehicle checks and maintenance.
Sample Answer: “I conduct pre-journey inspections including tyres, lights, brakes, and securing loads. If I spot a fault, I report it immediately and ensure the vehicle is safe before continuing.”
8. Have you ever had to deal with an accident or breakdown? How did you handle it?
Sample Answer: “I once experienced a breakdown on a motorway. I followed procedure by pulling over safely, putting warning triangles out, and contacting breakdown services. I also informed the depot and kept customers updated.”
9. What do you enjoy most about being a driver?
Sample Answer: “I enjoy the independence, the responsibility of transporting valuable loads, and meeting new people. Driving gives me pride in contributing to a company’s success.”
10. What’s the most challenging delivery you’ve completed?
Sample Answer: “I once had to deliver a large sofa to a top-floor flat with no lift. With a colleague, I planned carefully, communicated with the customer, and ensured the item arrived undamaged.”
11. How do you stay motivated during long shifts?
Sample Answer: “I keep hydrated, take regular rest breaks, listen to podcasts, and focus on the satisfaction of completing my deliveries safely.”
12. What steps do you take to secure your load?
Sample Answer: “I use straps, bars, and blankets depending on the load. I always double-check before departure and after significant stops.”
13. How do you handle stress on the road?
Sample Answer: “I stay calm, focus on safe driving, and remind myself that safety comes before speed. Deep breathing and planning ahead help reduce stress.”
14. Tell us about a time you went above and beyond for a customer.
Sample Answer (STAR): “A customer needed furniture moved within their home after delivery. I volunteered to assist, even though it wasn’t strictly required. They were extremely grateful, and Barker and Stonehouse received a glowing review.”
15. What’s your approach to teamwork with warehouse staff?
Sample Answer: “I respect warehouse colleagues, communicate clearly about loading, and double-check paperwork before departure. Teamwork ensures efficiency and safety.”
16. What do you do if you encounter unexpected road closures?
Sample Answer: “I use sat-nav rerouting, check with traffic updates, and communicate delays to logistics teams to keep customers informed.”
17. How familiar are you with digital tachographs?
Sample Answer: “I’m fully trained in their use, from logging hours to downloading data. I keep accurate records and ensure compliance.”
18. How would you handle a disagreement with a colleague?
Sample Answer: “I would stay professional, discuss the issue calmly, and focus on finding a practical solution. If needed, I would escalate respectfully.”
19. Can you give an example of how you’ve improved efficiency in your role?
Sample Answer: “I once suggested a new loading order that reduced unloading times by 15 minutes per delivery. Management adopted it across the team.”
20. What do you do to maintain a positive company image when interacting with customers?
Sample Answer: “I wear uniform with pride, communicate politely, handle items with care, and always leave customers with a positive impression of Barker and Stonehouse.”
21. What are your strengths as a driver?
Sample Answer: “Attention to detail, reliability, safe driving, and excellent customer service skills.”
22. What would you say are your weaknesses?
Be honest but positive.
Sample Answer: “I sometimes focus too much on perfection, which can slow me down. I’ve learned to balance speed with high standards.”
23. How do you keep up with changes in road laws and industry practices?
Sample Answer: “I attend CPC training, read DVSA updates, and stay engaged with industry forums.”
24. Do you prefer working alone or in a team?
Sample Answer: “I’m comfortable working independently on the road, but I also enjoy collaborating with logistics, warehouse, and delivery colleagues.”
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Always prepare questions.
Sample Answer: “Yes, I’d like to know how Barker and Stonehouse supports ongoing driver training and what opportunities there are for career progression.”
Using the STAR Model for Competency Questions
When asked competency-based questions like “Tell me about a time you handled pressure”, use the STAR approach:
Situation: Describe the context.
Task: What was your responsibility?
Action: What steps did you take?
Result: What was the outcome?
This model keeps your answers structured and impactful.
Interview Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
Do arrive on time and dress appropriately.
Do research Barker and Stonehouse thoroughly.
Do prepare examples using the STAR model.
Do bring your licence and CPC evidence.
Don’ts
Don’t criticise past employers.
Don’t give one-word answers.
Don’t ignore customer service aspects of the role.
Don’t forget to ask thoughtful questions at the end.
Final Encouragement and Tips
Remember, your role as a Class 1 Driver is not just about moving goods—it’s about representing Barker and Stonehouse to every customer you encounter. Employers are looking for drivers who combine safety and efficiency with excellent customer service.
If you feel you need more personalised support, consider booking a session with an interview coach. I provide one-to-one interview training, group job interview preparation, and tailored interview coaching online to help you secure the role you deserve.
With the right mindset, preparation, and coaching, you can walk into your Barker and Stonehouse HGV Class 1 Driver interview with confidence and leave with a job offer.
