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.
Choose your vehicle type and specs
Request quotes from dealers or brokers
Submit business documents and credit info
Select a lease or loan structure
Sign and schedule delivery
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
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.
Fixed terms from 24–84 months
Full ownership at the end
Ideal for long-life assets like buses and coaches
Option to return, upgrade, or buy
Great for evolving fleets or seasonal operations
Builds equity with each payment
End-of-term purchase for $1 or fair market value
Combines flexibility and asset ownership
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.
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Cost | Term | Estimated Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12-Passenger Shuttle Van | $58,000 | 60 months | ~$1,050/month |
| ADA-Compliant Shuttle Bus | $95,000 | 72 months | ~$1,475/month |
| 30-Passenger Coach Bus | $165,000 | 84 months | ~$2,400/month |
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
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
Loan for long-term use and ownership
Lease for lower upfront and monthly costs
Lease-to-own for fleet growth with future ownership
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.
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.