James Buda of Buehler Companies named Mayflower Transit Van Operator of the Year

Denver, Colorado (March 19, 2026) — James Buda of Buehler Companies in Denver, Colorado, was named Mayflower Transit’s 2026 Van Operator of the Year in the Household Goods West category. The award honors Buda’s exceptional performance in customer service and safety. He was recognized at the Company’s recent award ceremony in St. Louis. 

Right after graduating high school, Buda entered the trucking industry, starting his career as a packer. Watching the van operators at work inspired him to pursue his commercial driver’s license (CDL), which he earned at just 21 years old. Nearly 30 years later, Buda continues to live by a simple motto: “How would I want to be moved if I were the customer?” When asked about receiving the award, he credited his team, saying, “I’m only as good as my crew — they account for 80% of the success on every job.” 

“The Van Operator of the Year Award honors individuals who go above and beyond every single day.” UniGroup President and CEO Kevin A. Krakora said. “This year’s recipient exemplifies the reliability, leadership and work ethic that drive our company forward. On behalf of our entire organization, I extend my sincere congratulations and gratitude for a job exceptionally done.”   

There are more than 1,300 van operator professionals in the Mayflower network, and Buda was one of three winners this year. The van operator of the year began in the late 1970s to recognize the men and women who sacrifice so much for a life on the road and who help other families through one of the most stressful times in their lives.         

Click here to watch the full Van Operator of the Year video and discover more about Buda. 

 About Buehler Companies 

Founded in 1912, Buehler Companies is one of the nation’s most respected moving, logistics, and storage providers. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, with additional locations in Colorado Springs, Albuquerque, and Fort Worth, Buehler delivers comprehensive residential, commercial, and specialized relocation services across the United States and internationally. 

As an agent for Mayflower Transit and United Van Lines, Buehler combines global reach with personalized, local service. The company’s capabilities extend beyond traditional moving services to include complex commercial relocations, data center and technology moves, project management, warehousing and distribution, logistics coordination, furniture installation, and specialized transportation solutions. 

With more than a century of experience, Buehler Companies is committed to operational excellence, safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction—handling everything from household goods to highly sensitive equipment with precision and care. For more information, visit www.buehlercompanies.com or call 866-806-6208. 

About Mayflower  

Mayflower is America’s most recognized and trusted moving company offering a full range of moving services. With headquarters in suburban St. Louis, Mayflower maintains a network of nearly 200 affiliated agencies. For more information about Mayflower and its services, visit  Mayflower.com or find us on social @MayflowerMoving or @MayflowerMovingCompany.