Financing Buses and Shuttle Vehicles for Transportation Businesses

Whether you operate a charter service, airport shuttle, or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) company, reliable vehicles are the heart of your operation. But buses and shuttles don’t come cheap. Fortunately, financing buses and shuttle vehicles for transportation businesses offers a practical path to growth—without the burden of large upfront costs.

This guide explores how to finance commercial passenger vehicles, common costs, the best loan and lease structures, and how to get approved quickly.

How to Finance a Shuttle or Bus for Business

1. Choose your vehicle type and specs

2. Request quotes from dealers or brokers

3. Submit business documents and credit info

4. Select a lease or loan structure

5. Sign and schedule delivery

Why Financing Makes Sense for Transportation Companies

Bus and shuttle vehicle prices can range from $40,000 to $250,000+, depending on size, capacity, and customizations. Financing helps you:

• Preserve working capital for fuel, staff, and insurance

• Expand your fleet faster without waiting to save

• Match payments to revenue with fixed monthly installments

• Take advantage of Section 179 for tax savings

• Access newer, fuel-efficient models

Related: How Equipment Leasing Can Boost Your Company’s Cash Flow

Vehicles Eligible for Financing

Lenders typically offer financing or leasing for:

• Mini shuttle vans (10–14 passengers)

• Full-size shuttle buses (15–30 passengers)

• Charter buses and coaches

• ADA-compliant vehicles with lifts and wheelchair access

• Electric and hybrid buses

• Paratransit and NEMT vehicles

• Airport or hotel shuttles

• School activity buses

✅ You can often include wraps, GPS systems, insurance, and upfitting costs in your financing package.

Commercial Bus & Shuttle Vehicle Financing Options

🚐 1. Commercial Vehicle Loans

• Fixed terms from 24–84 months

• Full ownership at the end

• Ideal for long-life assets like buses and coaches

🔁 2. Operating Leases

• Lower monthly costs

• Option to return, upgrade, or buy

• Great for evolving fleets or seasonal operations

💼 3. Lease-to-Own Programs

• Builds equity with each payment

• End-of-term purchase for $1 or fair market value

• Combines flexibility and asset ownership

🏦 4. SBA Loans (7a & 504)

• Up to $5 million for vehicles and working capital

• Long terms and low rates

• Best for well-established operators

Tip: Choose lenders that understand the commercial passenger transport industry to avoid delays in underwriting.

Example Costs and Monthly Payments

What You'll Need to Apply

To qualify for bus or shuttle financing, you typically need:

• Business license and EIN

• Vehicle quote or dealer invoice

• Time in business (or detailed plan for startups)

• Bank statements and/or tax returns

• Credit score
  (500+ may qualify, stronger = better rates)

• Commercial auto insurance coverage

Related: What to Consider Before Signing an Equipment Lease Agreement

Where to Find the Best Financing Providers

You can secure bus and shuttle vehicle financing from:

• Commercial vehicle lenders like National Funding, Crest Capital, or Commercial Fleet Financing

• Dealers and brokers who offer in-house financing

• SBA-approved banks and credit unions

• Online platforms like Lendio or Funding Circle

Related: Evaluating Equipment Leasing Providers: What to Look For

Top 3 Ways to Finance Shuttle Vehicles

1. Loan for long-term use and ownership

2. Lease for lower upfront and monthly costs

3. Lease-to-own for fleet growth with future ownership

Final Thoughts: Transport More—Pay Less Upfront

Whether you’re scaling a charter bus company or adding vans to your hotel fleet, the right financing plan allows you to expand transportation services, improve reliability, and stay ahead of competitors—without the financial strain of full vehicle purchases.

Take Action: Finance a Shuttle or Bus for Your Business Today

Need help building or expanding your transportation fleet?
Apply now for flexible financing or leasing options on shuttles, ADA vans, or charter buses—tailored to your routes, budget, and long-term goals.