Funding Options for Commercial Trailers and Freight Containers

Whether you run a logistics company, a freight brokerage, or a small trucking fleet, commercial trailers and containers are essential to your operations. But with costs ranging from $5,000 to over $80,000 per unit, buying them outright can put serious pressure on your budget. That’s why many businesses explore funding options for commercial trailers and freight containers to manage costs and grow efficiently.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about financing, leasing, and purchasing commercial trailers and containers—so you can move your freight without financial friction.

What Are the Best Ways to Fund Commercial Trailers?

1. Commercial trailer loans

2. Equipment leasing

3. SBA 7(a) and 504 loans

4. Lease-to-own financing

5. Used trailer financing programs

What Can Be Financed?

Most lenders will fund both new and used trailer equipment, including:

• Dry vans

• Reefer trailers (refrigerated)

• Flatbeds and step decks

• Drop-deck or lowboy trailers

• Tanker trailers

• Utility and dump trailers

• Chassis and container trailers

• Intermodal freight containers (20ft, 40ft, high cube)

✅ You can often bundle registration, delivery, and inspection costs into your loan or lease agreement.

Top Funding Options for Trailers and Freight Containers

🚛 1. Commercial Equipment Loans

• Fixed rates and terms (24–84 months)

• Own the trailer/container outright after loan

• Great for assets with long service life

🔁 2. Trailer Leasing

• Lower monthly payments

• End-of-term options to return, extend, or purchase

• Ideal for short-term projects or growing fleets

💼 3. Lease-to-Own

• Combines flexibility of leasing with ownership at lease-end

• Lower upfront cost

• Often requires 6–10% down

🏦 4. SBA Loans (7a & 504)

• Low-interest, long-term financing

• Used for trailers, real estate, and working capital

• Best for businesses with good credit and strong financials

🔧 5. Used Trailer Financing

• Ideal for refurbished or certified pre-owned units

• Lower price = faster ROI

• May come with shorter terms and higher rates

Tip: For containers, some lenders allow bulk purchasing lines of credit if you're acquiring 5+ units.

Trailer and Container Financing Costs

What You’ll Need to Apply

To finance a trailer or freight container, you’ll typically need:

• Valid business entity or EIN

• Commercial driver’s license (if applicable)

• Vendor quote or invoice

• Recent bank statements

• Credit score
  (500+ may qualify)

• Proof of insurance

Related: What to Consider Before Signing an Equipment Lease Agreement

Pros and Cons of Financing vs. Leasing

✅ Financing Pros

• Build equity and own the asset

• Use equipment long-term with no mileage caps

• May qualify for depreciation tax benefits

⚠️ Financing Cons

• Higher monthly payments

• Requires down payment

✅ Leasing Pros

• Lower monthly costs

• Easy upgrades and replacements

• No depreciation risk

⚠️ Leasing Cons

• No equity unless lease-to-own

• End-of-term return conditions

Best Providers for Trailer & Container Funding

You can work with:

• Commercial lenders like CAG Truck Capital and Balboa Capital

• Dealership financing directly from trailer sellers

• Banks and credit unions with business lending programs

• SBA-approved lenders for long-term loans

• Online platforms like Lendio and National Funding for pre-qualification and comparison

Related: Evaluating Equipment Leasing Providers: What to Look For

Summary: Top 3 Ways to Fund Trailers and Containers 

1. Loan for long-term ownership and asset control

2. Lease for lower costs and flexibility

3. Lease-to-own for a balanced path to ownership

Final Thoughts: Move Freight Without Financial Strain

You don’t have to sacrifice growth or stretch your working capital thin. With smart financing, you can secure the trailers and containers your business needs to move freight reliably and affordably.

Take Action: Fund Your Commercial Trailer or Container Today

Need trailers or freight containers for your logistics operation?
Apply now for flexible financing or leasing options—with fast approvals, tailored terms, and expert support to keep your freight moving forward.