Getting financing as a trucking company has unique challenges — high asset values, regulatory burdens, depreciation, and volatile revenues. But in 2025, there are good loan paths if you structure your application well. Below is a comprehensive roadmap for trucking businesses seeking funding.
High capital expense: Trucks, trailers, refrigeration units, telematics — all expensive equipment.
Rapid depreciation & maintenance: Equipment wears out fast, reducing usable collateral value.
Cash flow volatility: Fuel prices, freight demand, and seasonal volume swings cause uneven revenue.
Regulatory & compliance burdens: Licensing, permits, DOT rules, insurance, etc., add cost and risk.
Because of these risks, lenders often view trucking operations more cautiously than many other industries. That’s why having strong documentation, collateral, and industry-specific experience helps.
Here are the most viable funding sources for trucking firms — each with pros, cons, and ideal use cases:
Here are lenders and finance companies known for trucking / transportation equipment financing:
TAB Bank: Specializes in equipment financing for trucking, offering flexible plans. TAB Bank, Member FDIC
Midlands B: Offers “specialty vehicle & transportation equipment financing” with fast approvals (up to 24 hrs) for amounts up to $500,000. Midland
TopMark Funding®: Focused on semi-truck and equipment financing. TopMark Funding
Commercial Credit Group (CCG): Provides tailored OTR truck and trailer loans with a local rep helping with structure. commercialcreditgroup.com
Keystone Equipment Finance: Works with single rigs or fleet financing in the transportation industry. keystoneefc.com
National Funding: Offers leasing and equipment financing up to ~$150,000 for commercial trucking businesses. National Funding
Equify Financial: Finances new and used trucks, trailers, specialty units; structured to match cash flow.
1st Commercial Credit: Known to finance “over-the-road equipment” in trucking.
These lenders are more attuned to trucking’s risks (mileage, resale, wear & tear) and can structure loans accordingly.
Getting a trucking loan approved in 2025 requires extra diligence. Below are tips and strategies:
Strong credit profile
Many trucking-loan lenders look for a FICO score of 615–620+ as a baseline.
Stable revenue history
Demonstrate consistent freight income over 12–36 months.
Low leverage / good debt metrics
Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) > 1.25 or better looks favorable.
Clean maintenance / vehicle records
Trucks with clear repair history and logbooks reduce risk for lenders.
Adequate collateral / down payment
A down payment or strong equipment value may be necessary.
Proper insurance and compliance
Licenses, registrations, DOT compliance, permits, etc.
Realistic projections & business plan
Show how the new equipment or loan will generate additional revenue.
Work with a broker or lender who understands trucking
Some lenders shy away from trucking — use specialists listed above.
Consider structured repayment tied to cash flows
Seasonal or module payments may ease repayment stress.
Prepare for new SBA rule changes
As of June 2025, SOP 50 10 8 introduces stricter criteria, including ownership documentation and eligibility.
New SBA SOP 50 10 8 becomes effective June 1, 2025, modifying underwriting rules for 7(a) and 504.
Citizenship & ownership rules tightened: 100% of owners/guarantors must now be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. Lendio
SBA guarantee fees reinstated for many loans. Small Business Administration
Some industries are now more stringently reviewed for eligibility.
If your trucking business uses foreign ownership or complex structures, these changes could complicate SBA loan eligibility.
| Goal | Loan Type Strategy | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Buy a new Class 8 tractor | Equipment financing or SBA 7(a) | Combine a down payment with a 7(a) to spread cost |
| Expand fleet with multiple trucks | Multi-unit equipment financing | Use lenders (Midlands, Keystone) that finance up to $500k or more |
| Bridge cash flow for fuel / maintenance | Line of credit or working capital loan | Use only what’s needed; repay when freight revenue comes in |
| Purchase a depot / yard | SBA 504 real estate / fixed asset financing | Use 504 for land/building and 7(a) for equipment |
| Refinance high-interest debt | SBA 7(a) or term loan | Consolidate costs, secure better rates and terms |
Resale value erosion if trucks accumulate excessive miles
Maintenance, breakdowns, and downtime risk
Fuel cost volatility impacting margins
Regulatory changes (emissions, permits, trucking laws)
Default risk if freight contracts or cash flow drop
Address these by conservative projections, strong margins, and buffer reserves.