Trucking Business Loans Explained
Trucking business financing helps thousands of transportation companies stay afloat every year. Small business loans for truckers, business credit for trucking, and trucking equipment financing are just some of the financial options available to assist struggling trucking companies and their employees.
You can find small business loans for startup trucking companies and lines of credit for hiring new employees, improving facilities, or purchasing new equipment. You can even obtain startup trucking business loans if you have bad credit.
That said, the trucking business loans landscape can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting your venture. In this post, we’ll cover the basics of trucking business funding, discuss some of the most popular trucking business loans and their benefits, and tell you how to qualify for trucking business financing.
What are Trucking Business Loans?
Trucking business loans are generally short-term loans for lines of credit or working capital growth. They help truckers to overcome cash flow gaps, expand their businesses, or purchase additional vehicles.
The most financially viable capital loans for trucking companies offer short repayment terms and quick funding. These are ideal for truckers that need emergency repairs or fast access to owner-operator startup costs.
The Different Types of Trucking Business Loans
If you run a trucking business or plan to start one, you can find a range of startup business loans for trucking and other financial options. Some of the most popular loans include:
Equipment Loans
Equipment loans help to cover the cost of any new or used equipment you purchase for your trucking business. Equipment includes electronics, vehicles, and new technologies.
As the equipment is used as collateral, this type of loan is less risky for lenders, making it easier for many business owners to qualify.
Purchasing equipment with a loan spreads out payments and helps preserve your cash flow for alternative business uses.
Short-Term Business Loans
Short-term business loans are ideal for businesses that require quick cash to use as working capital. Depending on the lender, funds can be accessible within a few hours or days.
Short-term business loans are not restricted to specific expenses. Therefore, this type of financing can be great for helping your business get through a challenging period, recover from an emergency, or expand your services.
Business Line of Credit
Business lines of credit are a fantastic form of funding for handling expenses or covering shortfalls when business is slow. Opting for this financing option means that you’ll always have a source of working capital accessible and won’t have to deal with ongoing loan payments. Choosing a revolving credit line is helpful as your credit replenishes every time you pay off your outstanding balance.
SBA Loans
SBA loans are a good choice if your trucking company needs to make a significant investment or purchase, as they are typically repaid on longer terms. If you’re franchising out to a new area, purchasing new trucks, or renovating an entire fleet, SBA loans are the way forward.
Benefits of Trucking Business Loans
Commercial truck loans can give you access to funds that will help you transform or improve your business. Some of the benefits of trucking business loans include:
Preserve Working Capital
Commercial trucking loans can provide cash flow to maintain vehicles, purchase fuel, and buy new equipment. Extra capital can help you preserve your working capital, freeing up cash for other business essentials such as marketing, payroll, and unexpected accidents.
Improved Competitive Edge
When you acquire funds for your trucking business via a loan, it can help to enhance your services, taking your business to the next level. Trucking business loans help you focus on the most critical aspects of your business without worrying about finances. As you hone your brand, you become more competitive and profitable as a business.
Broader Financing Options
Choosing a trucking business loan instead of a traditional loan can offer more flexibility in financing options. You can choose a loan that matches your specific financial situation, credit history, and requirements. Working with specialist companies to obtain the right loan will give you more customizable options to help your business thrive.
How to Qualify for Truck Business Funding
Several factors determine how you qualify for trucking business loans. Each lender will have varying credit requirements and may look at both your business and personal credit scores alongside your credit history.
The higher your credit score, the more attractive interest rates you’ll be able to access. Some lenders may ask for a downpayment on a loan, which could fall between 5-25%, depending on your situation. Additionally, lenders may look at how long you’ve been in business and how experienced you are in the trucking industry.
Secure Working Capital for Your Trucking Company
Here at L3 Funding, we provide a wealth of options to help your business succeed. From short-term working capital to microloans, we have the financial solutions your business needs. Click here for more information.