Girteka Drivers

Ignat has been a truck driver with Girteka for three years, delivering across Europe and the UK. He doesn’t see himself as a blogger or a hero. But when he talks, you hear calm, experience, and respect for the job. He also has a good sense of humor and tends to think a couple of steps ahead. 

He didn’t start out as a driver 

Before becoming a driver, Ignat tried different jobs. He sold and repaired bicycles and motorcycles, and worked as a driving instructor. But he wanted more – more progress, more income, more freedom. 

So he got his CE license and started at a small Belarusian company to gain experience. After a year, he joined Girteka and stayed. 

From my first days, I knew I’d be with Girteka for a long time. The company is growing and makes sure drivers feel comfortable.

Why he chose Girteka?

For Ignat, the most important things are structure and respect. He values the fact that no one disturbs drivers during rest hours. You’re free to plan your day, choose your parking spot (unless otherwise directed), and focus on making your delivery on time. 

It’s all about mutual respect. They treat you like a professional – if you’re doing your job right, they trust you to get on with it without micromanaging.

He drives a refrigerated truck and says the vehicles are modern, well-maintained, and comfortable to live in. When his power steering once failed on the road, service was arranged fast – no extra hassle, no waiting games. 

Other drivers I know say that in some companies, they might tell you, ‘Just get there, we’ll deal with it later.’ Here, you report a problem – and it gets handled. No stress.

His favorite route is to the UK – his brother lives there. The job sometimes gives them a chance to meet, even briefly. 

Beyond the cab: hobbies and habits

Ignat brings his bike along and tries to go for a ride whenever he can. He says it helps him unwind after long hours behind the wheel – and he sleeps better afterward. If there’s a sea nearby or just a nice place, he rides and takes drone videos. He has an Instagram account (@platnitski), but doesn’t consider himself a blogger – he just wants to capture and keep the moments. 

He cooks in a slow cooker – things like porridge, soup, and potatoes. But he’s not against fast food either: if there’s a McDonald’s at the parking area, there’s “a 70% chance” he’ll go there. 
The most important thing, he says, is not to overdo it and to keep a balance.

Challenges and joys of the job 

Ignat takes planning seriously. He always checks things in advance – where the parking spots are, what the access roads look like, and anything else that might cause trouble on the way. He likes to be sure. 

Once in Spain, he had to load in a village with very narrow streets. He didn’t take the risk – got out of the truck, walked to the company office, and they gave him an escort vehicle. The smart call paid off! 

“At the Girteka Driver Academy, they told us: think, assess the situation, trust your instincts. So that’s what I try to do,” he says with a smile. 

Ignat says that when he drives, he always stays focused – like it’s his first time in a truck.

“It’s like a reflex now – I’m always checking my mirrors and turning my head like an owl. Sometimes it feels like my eyes can look in two directions at once,” he jokes. “Not very comfortable, but definitely safe.

Among the positives of the job, he mentions the chance to see the world and have a steady income. 
He’s seen Lake Como, the Alps, Stonehenge, Cannes, and much more – but often thinks, “Wish my family could see this too.” 

Once, he had a chance to visit Disneyland in Paris, but didn’t go in. He decided to wait for the moment when he can go there with his loved ones.

Still learning, still moving 

Ignat once wrote a poem for Driver’s Day – not something he does often, just a moment of inspiration. He says he tends to overthink, especially when planning routes. But that same habit helps him stay out of trouble. 

He believes in personal responsibility – and a bit of karma. 

Live decently. Don’t cause harm – and good things will follow.

He talks about the future calmly. He wants to gain more experience, work as a driver for at least ten years, and maybe become an instructor later on. For now, he still sees himself as someone who’s learning. 

He’s already brought several friends and his cousin into the company. 

Girteka handles 95% of the hiring process, which is a big plus. The trucks are new, the pay is solid, and communication is clear. If you want to work, you’ll succeed here.

His dream is simple: to take care of his family, grow as a professional, and leave a mark as someone who truly did his job well.