Professional drivers in winter service: reaching their destination safely with competence and responsibility

Snow, ice and freezing temperatures have affected road traffic in many places over the past winter months and posed particular challenges for transport logistics. Food logistics in particular requires special care, as goods must be transported safely and on time even in snow and adverse weather conditions.

In addition to a modern fleet with numerous assistance and safety systems, it is above all our drivers who make the difference with their expertise and experience. With great attention, foresight and a high sense of responsibility, they ensure that food reliably reaches its destination even under demanding conditions.

Over the past few months, the Nagel-Group’s professional drivers have once again demonstrated their professionalism in dealing with winter road conditions, ensuring a reliable supply even in snow, ice and freezing temperatures.
We spoke to three drivers who told us about their everyday work in winter. They described the particular challenges posed by snow and ice, how they prepare for difficult road conditions and what is important in critical situations.

Experiences from everyday driving

Heiko Kleyer, Berufskraftfahrer bei der Nagel-Group, im Lkw

Heiko – Experience pays off

With over three decades of experience in long-distance transport, Heiko Kleyer knows all the important strategies for safely navigating the winter months. For him, careful preparation and a watchful eye on critical situations are an integral part of winter business. The most important measures include driving with suitable winter tyres, removing ice and snow from roofs and superstructures – to prevent falling snow or ice sheets from hitting other vehicles – and increasing the safety distance. Correct loading is also crucial: ‘The weight must be on the drive axle, not at the rear – otherwise the vehicle drives as if on eggshells,’ explains Heiko.

He always carries warm clothing, blankets and drinks with him in case of unexpected road closures or long traffic jams. He emphasises: ‘The biggest problem on the road is not so much the weather itself, but the traffic it causes. Especially in winter, staying calm is crucial. Hectic behaviour or unnecessary risks don’t get anyone anywhere. It’s simply better to drive calmly and with concentration.’

Jens Zimmer, professional driver at Nagel-Group

Jens – Navigating winter traffic with finesse

Jens Zimmer has been working in long-distance transport since June 2024 and is confidently mastering his first harsh winter. Thanks to special training provided by the Nagel-Group on safe driving in difficult conditions, he is well prepared. Nevertheless, snow depths of up to 30 centimetres, icy surfaces and challenging routes such as the A7 motorway and the Kassel mountains put him to the test. Keeping a safe distance, making conscious use of assistance systems and driving calmly are essential for him. The Nagel-Group’s modern trucks are equipped with ABS, traction control, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning systems. However, the human factor remains crucial: ‘Especially in snow and ice, I drive with feeling and consciously keep the vehicle under control.’

Branden – Winter in city traffic

Branden Lopau drives for LEAFR, the Nagel Group’s corporate venture, in Hamburg’s inner-city traffic. ‘In winter, I dress warmer, use my jacket with reflectors and wear safety shoes with better grip,’ he reports. He particularly remembers 9 January because of a severe weather warning: ‘We had to be particularly careful when driving and making deliveries.’

His electric van also proves its worth in winter. Thanks to its compact design, it can navigate narrow streets and, despite its limited range, the vehicle remains powerful and safe. Branden says: ‘Good preparation, the right equipment and careful driving are crucial to ensuring we can deliver reliably.’

A big thank you

Winter in logistics is not an exception, but an integral part of everyday working life. With experience, prudence and a sense of responsibility, the drivers of the Nagel-Group master these challenges every day – and thus ensure a reliable supply of food even under difficult conditions.

The Nagel-Group would like to thank all its drivers for their tireless efforts, especially during the winter months. Their professionalism, great sense of responsibility and constant dedication play a decisive role in ensuring a reliable supply of food even in difficult weather conditions.