Trailer Financing: Dry Van, Reefer & Flatbed Loans
A trailer is often the cheapest way to add revenue to a trucking operation — a second trailer lets you drop-and-hook, and the right reefer or flatbed opens higher-paying freight. Because trailers hold value well and have long useful lives, lenders generally view them as solid collateral.
Types of Trailers Commonly Financed
- Dry vans — the most common and easiest to finance; strong resale market.
- Reefers — higher price because of the refrigeration unit; lenders look closely at reefer-unit hours on used units.
- Flatbeds and step decks — simpler construction, long service life.
- Specialty trailers — lowboys, tankers, end dumps; financeable, but sometimes with tighter terms.
Typical Terms
- Down payment: commonly 10–20%, more for weaker credit or older trailers
- Terms: up to 84 months, depending on age and condition
- Amount: up to $1M in total equipment value across the units you finance
- Structure: equipment loan or lease — lease options include $1 buyout and FMV leases
What Lenders Look At
- Time in business and authority age
- Personal and business credit
- Recent bank statements showing steady revenue
- Trailer year, make, condition, and seller (dealer or private party)
- Your current truck and trailer debt
New vs. Used Trailers
New trailers carry longer terms and simpler approvals; used trailers cost less up front but lenders may shorten the term or ask for more down on older units. A third-party inspection helps on private-party purchases.
Section 179
Trailers used in your business may qualify for Section 179 or bonus depreciation. Talk to your tax professional about how it applies to you.
Pairing a trailer with a truck purchase? See our semi truck financing page and the truck loan calculator.
Equipment and truck programs fund up to $1M in total value with terms up to 84 months, as a loan or a lease. Rates, down payments, and final terms vary by lender, equipment, and credit profile, and every deal is subject to underwriting and approval. A down payment is required on most programs.
Related equipment guides: Trailer Financing · Startup Equipment Financing · Construction & Heavy Equipment · Box & Dump Truck Financing · Used Semi Truck Financing
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California Business Capital | Fresno, California | info@cabizfunding.com | 559-549-4717