This article draws on insights and compelling reflections originally presented by Amy Winship. Our thanks to her for sharing her thoughtful perspective on women’s experiences in the transport sector.
Being a woman in transport comes with both rewards and challenges. Many of them I hadn’t fully considered before stepping into the world of lorry driving. But before diving into the lived experiences, let’s take a quick look at the stats that set the scene.
The numbers behind the wheels: women in transport by the stats
Women make up just 1% of lorry drivers in the UK, a figure that has stubbornly remained unchanged since 2016. Yet when it comes to performance, women consistently outperform their male counterparts. For example, women aged 20–29 have the highest pass rate at 67.9%, compared with 63% for men in the same age group.
Despite this, only 9.1% of candidates taking the LGV driving test in 2021 were women. This highlights how slow progress remains, and how the transport sector continues to underrepresent half the population.
Driver shortages in the UK: why women in transport are key to the solution
The UK has faced a well-documented shortage of large goods vehicle (LGV) drivers for over a decade. Brexit and an ageing workforce have only intensified the problem. According to a report by the Road Haulage Association, the number of unfilled LGV positions is expected to triple by 2026.
Encouraging more women in transport isn’t just a matter of fairness. It could be a practical solution to a growing skills gap. Yet outdated stereotypes remain a stubborn barrier. Ask someone to picture a lorry driver, and they’ll likely describe a middle-aged man. Shifting that perception is one of the key challenges the industry must address.
Barriers on the road: what’s holding women back in transport?
So, what’s stopping more women from becoming lorry drivers? From conversations with other women in the industry, both online and in dedicated support groups, the list is longer than many might expect.
Facilities
Something as basic as toilet access can still be a daily challenge. Many depots and truck stops were designed with men in mind, often leaving women to walk considerable distances just to find suitable facilities, if they exist at all. While there have been some improvements, the overall standard of UK truck stop facilities remains far from adequate.
Safety and attitudes
This is a sensitive issue but one that can’t be ignored. Women frequently face unwanted attention, from backhanded compliments like “Wow, do you really drive that?” to being whistled at or propositioned. Some may shrug it off, but others feel unsafe or worn down by the constant comments. In the worst cases, harassment has driven women to leave the industry altogether.
Physical demands
Driving itself isn’t necessarily the hardest part. It’s the physical tasks around it. Reaching bulkhead ropes, coupling air lines or handling heavy cages can be difficult, particularly when equipment is poorly maintained. Personally, I’ve had to ask for help, and while it felt daunting at first, I’ve learned workarounds and shared them with others.
Why it’s worth it: the rewards of being a woman in transport
Reading all of this might make the job sound unappealing, but that’s far from the full picture. There are plenty of reasons why I, and many other women, love what we do.
The sense of achievement after completing a tricky reverse or manoeuvre is unmatched. I genuinely enjoy driving, value independence, and thrive both on my own and within a team. Being a relatively new pass also helps me connect with newer drivers. I know what the current test involves, what’s taught, and where the gaps in knowledge might be. Sharing what I’ve learned to help others is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
The road ahead: creating space for women in transport
For women in transport, the road is not always smooth, but it is navigable. By addressing basic issues like proper facilities, challenging outdated attitudes, and offering better support, the industry can become far more inclusive.
Women have already proven they are more than capable behind the wheel. Now it’s up to the industry to show that it values and supports them equally. Because the future of transport isn’t male or female. It’s skilled, passionate, and open to everyone who’s ready to take the wheel.