When you’re running a trucking business, it’s important to have access to finance. It can help you pay salaries, cover operating expenses like fuel and tolls, or even fund a new fleet.
Having a good understanding of commercial truck financing can help you find the best way to invest in your business, so you can reach your goals faster and grow into a larger, more profitable company. Having access to a loan can also make it easier for you to manage your finances, as you won’t have to worry about paying back all of your costs at once.
How to Get Commercial Truck Financing
The first step in financing a truck is finding the right lender. This may be a traditional bank, or an online lender that can offer a simpler application process and potentially higher approval rates. You’ll need to gather all of the necessary information to submit a loan request, including annual revenue, the type of truck you want to buy, its age and mileage, and your credit score.
Once you have your lenders in mind, shop around for the best interest rate and terms. It’s also a good idea to have enough money saved for a down payment, as this will help you secure the most competitive financing terms possible.
Lenders set their own guidelines for down payments, but a good range is between 5% and 15% of the purchase price. They also determine how much of the purchase price they will accept as collateral for the loan.
Another important aspect of a lease truck loan is the repayment term, which typically matches the life span of the truck. This is a way to make sure you’re not still paying off the loan after the truck has outlived its usefulness.
There are a few different ways to finance your truck, including buying it outright or leasing it. If you opt for a lease, it’s important to consider how much the monthly payments will cost in addition to other factors, such as insurance.
Depending on the model of truck you choose, the vehicle will likely require repairs over time. These repairs can be costly, so a lease is a smart option for reducing these expenses.
Other ways to finance your truck include an equipment loan, which is similar to a mortgage and can help you avoid the hassle of obtaining a traditional bank loan. An equipment loan can be more flexible when it comes to credit scores, minimum annual revenue and time in business.
Many lenders also offer financing to owner-operators, who can take advantage of lower down payment requirements and less paperwork. These loans are usually available in a variety of terms, from 24 months to 84 months.
The lender’s maximum funding amount is also a key factor. This can make it difficult for smaller companies to secure loans.
Once you’ve found a lender that fits your needs, apply for a loan. The loan process can be long and complex, but National Business Capital’s Business Finance Advisors are here to help you navigate the offers and find the one that’s best for your trucking business. They will guide you through the entire process so that you can focus on growing your business to the next level.