Parallel Parking Tips for HGV Drivers

Parallel parking a big rig feels like fitting a puzzle piece into a tiny gap. The good news? It’s all about a solid routine and a few mental cues. Follow these steps, avoid typical slip‑ups, and you’ll be confident both in the test centre and on the street.

Step‑by‑Step Routine

1. Spot the space. Choose a slot at least 1.5 times your vehicle’s length. If you’re not sure, add a metre – it’s easier to adjust than to miss the mark.

2. Position your HGV. Pull up alongside the parked vehicle, leaving about a meter between rear bumpers. Your mirrors should line up with the rear corner of the car ahead.

3. Check mirrors and blind spots. Give a quick glance over your shoulder, then signal. Make sure no cyclists or pedestrians are lurking.

4. Start the reverse. Turn the steering wheel full lock towards the curb and begin backing up slowly. Keep your speed at a crawl – the truck’s momentum can surprise you.

5. Watch the front of your cab. When the front of your cab clears the rear of the car ahead, straighten the wheel and continue reversing straight into the space.

6. Straighten out. As the rear of your vehicle reaches the curb, turn the wheel full lock away from the curb and pull forward a little to line up in the centre of the space.

7. Final check. Make sure you’re no more than 30 cm from the curb and that you can see the rear of the vehicle behind you without straining.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Overshooting the curb. If you end up too far from the curb, stop, shift to neutral, and roll forward a few metres before retrying. Small adjustments save big frustration.

Turning the wheel too early. Many drivers panic and start turning before the front of the cab clears the car ahead. Wait for that moment; premature steering can send the rear swinging into traffic.

Ignoring mirror cues. Your side mirrors are your best friends in a tight spot. Constantly glance at them to gauge distance to the curb and to the car behind you.

Speeding up. It’s easy to let the engine’s power creep in, especially with a heavy vehicle. Keep it in low gear and use the brake pedal to control every inch.

Not practising. Theory is fine, but muscle memory wins on test day. Use a quiet street or a parking lot to run the routine at least five times before your exam.

Remember, parallel parking isn’t about brute force; it’s about timing and spatial awareness. Treat each maneuver as a short conversation between you, the vehicle, and the surrounding traffic. If you stay calm, follow the steps, and correct mistakes quickly, you’ll pass the test and keep your HGV safe on the road.

Ready to give it a go? Grab a friend to watch, set up a mock space, and start practising. The more you repeat the routine, the more natural it becomes. Before you know it, parallel parking will feel as easy as pulling into a driveway.