ALLMI Lorry Loader Course | What’s Included? UK Guide

What happens before the course starts?

Good training starts with course planning. Before the day, the instructor needs to understand the loader type, attachments, candidate experience, group size, representative loads and the available practical training area. This helps confirm the correct course route and avoids putting an inexperienced operator onto a course that is too short or does not match the equipment they will use.

If you are unsure which route is suitable, see our ALLMI Lorry Loader training page or contact us with the machine details and candidate experience.

Core learning areas

The course is designed to develop both knowledge and practical control. Typical learning areas include:

• Operator responsibilities, relevant legal duties and the operator’s role within the lifting operation.
• Lorry-loader components, controls, safety devices and operating limitations.
• Pre-use inspection, defect identification and defect reporting.
• Vehicle positioning, ground assessment, stabiliser deployment and safe working areas.
• Rated capacity information, loader configuration and the effect of operating radius on lifting capacity.
• Planning and carrying out lifting movements in a controlled manner.
• Safe use of attachments covered by the booked course category.
• Correct stowing and shutdown procedures after the lifting operation.

What does the practical training involve?

Practical training is carried out using a suitable lorry loader and representative loads. Candidates are expected to demonstrate more than simply moving the controls. They need to prepare the machine correctly, check the working area, position the vehicle appropriately, deploy the stabilisers, interpret the loader’s capacity information and complete lifting movements safely and smoothly.

The instructor will normally coach the candidate through the operating sequence before the formal practical assessment. Where a candidate needs more practice, this should be identified during training rather than discovered only at the final assessment.

Theory and practical assessment

Candidates must demonstrate that they understand the key principles and can apply them safely. The assessment considers preparation, checks, configuration, judgement, control of the lifting area, safe operation and shutdown. Successful completion is therefore based on both knowledge and practical competence.

Operator training is not the same as Slinger / Signaller training

The Operator course focuses on the person controlling the lorry loader. It does not automatically demonstrate competence to select lifting accessories, sling loads or act as the designated signaller. Where those duties form part of the candidate’s job, separate training may be required.

For a clearer breakdown, read our Operator vs Slinger / Signaller comparison or visit the ALLMI Slinger / Signaller course page.

How long does an ALLMI Lorry Loader course take?

Novice or inexperienced operator training is normally delivered over two days. Experienced and refresher routes are normally one day where the candidate’s previous experience and training history support that route. Course duration should always be based on the candidate rather than simply choosing the shortest option.

What should the site provide?

To make the course productive, the training site should be ready before the instructor arrives.

• A serviceable lorry loader suitable for the booked category.
• Machine documentation and manufacturer information where required.
• Suitable lifting accessories for the planned exercises.
• Representative loads appropriate to the machine and course.
• Suitable ground conditions for stabiliser deployment.
• A practical area that can be controlled and kept clear of other activity.
• Any relevant site-specific safe systems of work or restrictions.

Course content must be used alongside the manufacturer’s instructions and the employer’s own safe system of work. The ALLMI website provides official scheme and guidance information.

ALLMI Lorry Loader course price

Our end-user rate is £400 per training day for the agreed course group, plus £50 per candidate for ALLMI books and course materials. No VAT is added. The final cost depends on the number of training days and candidates, so we confirm the total before the booking is made. See ALLMI course costs and group-price examples, then check available weekday and weekend dates.

Frequently asked questions

Can experienced operators take a one-day course?

Yes, where their previous experience and training history support the experienced or refresher route. The correct route should be agreed before the course.

Can the course be delivered at our own site?

Yes. MHE Training UK provides on-site training nationwide on weekdays and weekends, subject to our availability and suitable equipment and facilities being available.

Does Operator training cover slinging loads?

No. Operator training and Slinger / Signaller duties are different areas of competence. If a person will be selecting accessories, slinging loads or signalling lifting movements, appropriate Slinger / Signaller training should be considered.

Find ALLMI training in your area

Use the ALLMI training by county directory to find training information for your county, then choose the Operator or Slinger / Signaller course that matches the work your team carries out.