The day starts with planning

Jeroen usually knows a day in advance where he needs to go. “Often, it's the same addresses I visit weekly, so I know the farmers and the companies well,” he says.

Today, the trip is to Goch. The planning comes through VBL, which VAEX works with daily. “Everything is in there: where I'm going, how many piglets need to be loaded, what time the vet will be there… I always check that right away. You don't want to be late, because if the vet has to wait too long, you have a problem.”

Always prepared

There are some essentials in the cab: spray cans to mark the piglets and a rattle. He usually grabs overalls and boots at the farm. “Most of it is ready there, but I make sure I have what I need. That way I can get started right away.”

What makes the job enjoyable

For Jeroen, the satisfaction comes from working with live animals. “No day is the same. You're on the road, you see different companies, and if everything is loaded neatly and the customer is happy, then my day is made.”

He always keeps an eye on how the piglets are doing. “It feels like my responsibility. I want things to go well.”

Paying attention to the details

Loading is more than just sending piglets into the truck. In summer, there are heat protocols, and there's always the challenge of loading the animals calmly and evenly. “You have to make sure it goes smoothly but also calmly. And communication with the driver, farmer, and vet has to be spot on. You're really the link between those three.”

Taking a moment to connect

On the farmyard, Jeroen always takes a moment for a chat. “In the past, you'd sometimes sit down for coffee or even a meal, now things often go quicker. But I think it's important to keep that contact, it just works better.”

On the road, he regularly calls colleagues or the planning team. “You need that contact. Sometimes there's new information about the sale or something needs to be coordinated. One call and we're up to speed again.”

Heading home satisfied

A good day for Jeroen is when everything is loaded neatly and on its way. “Then it's just a matter of waiting until they arrive, but I often check in to see if everything went well. Sometimes I give drivers some tips, for example if bad weather is coming. That's just part of the job.”

Proud of the profession

According to Jeroen, many people don't realize how much organization goes into a piece of meat. “Dutch farmers work very well and follow strict rules. We're really at the top in Europe. That deserves to be said more often.”

When you're out with Jeroen, you notice: this job is all about experience, attention, and good teamwork. It's not just loading and leaving, but making sure everything is right: for the animals, for the farmer, and for the customer.