Celebrate Van Operator Appreciation Week 2025

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is September 14-20. 

To Our Van Operators Nationwide: 

From traffic jams and harsh weather to demanding schedules and those unexpected “bumps in the road,” you continually rise to the challenge. We recognize your hard work and the long days and weeks spent away from your families — and we admire the way you deliver with such skill, dedication and heart. 

Your efforts mean everything to us. You are the steady hands and the driving force behind UniGroup Logistics, keeping us moving forward through every mile. Rain or shine, you make it possible for our customers to feel at home, and for that, we are deeply grateful. 

If you’re in the St. Louis area during Appreciation Week, we hope you’ll find time stop by the home office. We’ll be ready to welcome you with goody bags, gifts and prizes generously donated by members of our cooperative agent network.  

It’s our way of showing we appreciate all you do—not just this week, but every day of the year.  

2025 Van Operator of the Year Award Winners 

Mikhail Chalakine – VIP Transport (MT Logistics Winner) 

For nearly 30 years, Mikhail has become a steady hand customers can count on—treating their belongings with the same care he gives his own. For him, every move is a way to ease stress and provide peace of mind. He loves that this career has taken him just about anywhere he’s wanted to go. 

Cindy Kapellusch – Planes Moving & Storage (UVL Logistics Winner) 

Cindy’s career began in accounting, but the lure of the open road was too strong. Over 35 years later, she’s proud to see more women thriving in trucking. Always traveling with her dogs, Cindy embodies both professionalism and heart in everything she does. 

Thanks to all our sponsors for their generosity and help in making this a special week, too!