Reflecting on Van Kam Freightways’ Journey Through 2023

December 21, 2023

Thanks for being with us in 2023! It was another eventful year at Van Kam, so we’re sharing some of the key highlights that brought about growth, deep community engagement, and a steadfast dedication to innovative and sustainable practices. 2023 was a reflection of the collective effort and commitment of the entire Van Kam team as they align with our Values.

Community at the Heart of Our Journey

2023 was a year when our trucks carried more than freight – they carried hope, support, and a spirit of giving. From empowering women with our donations to local women’s centers and the YWCA’s Changing Gears program to nurturing the next generation of sports stars with KidSport sponsorship and backing the U10 BC All-Star Junior NLL Warriors, our commitment to our community shone brightly. We also stood in solidarity with those affected by the BC Wildfires, contributing through the Canadian Red Cross.

Internally, our team spirit soared with the introduction of the Employee Donation Matching Program, encouraging our staff to be agents of change. These initiatives, among many others, defined Van Kam’s 2023 story – a narrative of a company not just moving freight, but also moving hearts, supporting communities, and contributing to a better tomorrow.

Community and camaraderie – Van Kam’s 2023 in snapshots.

Digital Innovations Driving Progress

In 2023, we prioritized technology to enhance the shipping experience for our customers. We introduced an innovative E-Claims program, making the claims process more straightforward and user-friendly. It’s a step towards minimizing hassles for our customers and ensuring a more efficient resolution process.

Additionally, we ramped up our technology game with the introduction of our Real-Time Photo Capture feature. This new feature allows our customers to see their shipments at critical points during transit, offering transparency and peace of mind. This integration of technology is part of our ongoing commitment to providing reliable and trustworthy services.

Celebrating Team Milestones, Embracing Growth

The year also marked significant milestones in our team’s journey. We celebrated career anniversaries, ranging from 5 to 40 years, and also saw some of our long-standing team members retire after decades of dedicated service. These moments were bittersweet, merging gratitude with new beginnings. The addition of new roles, including a Claims Supervisor, brought fresh energy to our team.

Our commitment to our staff’s development shone through initiatives like the Driver Training Grant and our new Driver Safety Program, emphasizing skill enhancement and safety. 2023 was about cherishing our past, embracing new beginnings, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and safety consciousness.

Grateful for Every Mile

Reflecting on the year, we realize how every mile travelled has been a journey of gratitude. Each customer interaction, every shipment delivered, and every new challenge met has deepened our appreciation for the relationships we’ve built and sustained. This sense of gratitude is not just towards our valued customers, who have shown unwavering trust in our services, but equally towards our dedicated team members. Their resilience, ingenuity, and commitment have been the driving force behind our success.

With 2023 in the rearview mirror, we’re revving up for the journey ahead. Van Kam Freightways is ready to take on the new year with energy and optimism. We’re not just moving freight; we’re moving forward, building on these successes and lessons, and driving towards an even brighter future.

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