Nearly 100 years on the road.
From horse and cart to modern refrigerated trailers.
From horse and cart to modern refrigerated trailers, Kempen Transport has been growing since 1928 with one goal: to remain the best in refrigerated transport. What started in Tegelen, with Graad Kempen transporting clay products between Tegelen and Maastricht, has grown into a family business with more than 250 specialized trucks and trailers and nearly 40 loading docks.
As Gerard Kempen says: “A promise is a promise.” With this Limburg mentality and dedication, customers have trusted our service for nearly 100 years.
Gerard Kempen
At the age of 17, Gerard Kempen joined the family business, ready to take it to the next level. Where horse and cart once did the work, three trucks were now ready to transport goods across Europe. After the passing of his father, Gerard and his brother took over the company, quickly expanding its operations.
In 1986, Kempen Transport took a significant step by relocating to the auction site. Initially still using tarp trailers, the company quickly pivoted as demand for refrigerated transport grew, cementing its position as the specialist in refrigerated transport for fruits and vegetables.
In 2016, we moved to our current location: a modern facility with nearly 40 loading docks, sustainable cooling cells, and modern offices. Here, in our forward-looking company, we continue our mission: delivering quality without compromise.
Like father, like daughter
Today, Nancy Kempen, the third generation, proudly leads the family business. Raised among the trucks, she has carried her passion for transport and entrepreneurship with her from a young age. Together with a dedicated team—some of whom have been with the company since the early days—Nancy ensures that Kempen continues to excel: delivering on promises and maintaining the highest standards of quality.
Nancy believes in leading with vision: “I feel responsible for the team and the success of the company, but we can only achieve that by working together and bringing out the best in each other.”
The future of Kempen Transport
At Kempen Transport, we remain true to our roots while always looking ahead. Growth is not our goal—being the best is. With the latest technologies and smart solutions, we continue to innovate without compromising on the quality that has defined us for generations.
The fourth generation is now active in the company and being prepared for the future. Where will that future take us? One thing is certain: we will continue to build on our family business with the same dedication and passion that has driven us for nearly 100 years.
Kempen Transport is more than just a transport company. We are your partner for refrigerated transport of fruits and vegetables. Now and in the future.
