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Best Semi Truck Financing Companies

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Best Semi Truck Financing Companies

Getting the vehicle you need at a price you can pay is often a challenge. Check out this guide to research and find the best semi-truck financing company for you. We look at top companies that offer financing and leasing options with terms within your budget.

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What should you consider when financing a semi or commercial truck?

What type of vehicle do you need?

The type of vehicle that you need and its intended use will affect the types of financing available to you. Some equipment financers will not finance long-haul trucking contracts, while others deal with them exclusively.

  • Vocational trucks: A vocational truck is a work vehicle like a dump truck or cement truck. Vocational trucks are the easiest to finance because they are associated with fewer risks.
  • Transportation vehicles: When it comes to commercial vehicle financing, the term “transportation vehicle” usually means a semi-truck or big rig. Many companies will not finance long-haul trucks, and many of those who do will not work with owner-operators (also known as independent contractors). Semis are easiest to finance directly from a dealer and if they are less than 7 years old.

Are you a new owner-operator?

New owner-operators often have difficulty securing financing to lease a commercial truck.

  • Fleet size: Financing options are limited for new owner-operators, especially if you only have one or two vehicles in your fleet. That’s because if your work vehicle breaks down, you will not have an income to make repairs and meet your payment obligations.
  • Years of experience: Most companies want their clients to have at least two years experience as owner-operator before they will finance a vehicle.

How is your credit?

Your credit score will determine how easily you can secure a loan and how high your payments will be month-to-month. If you have poor credit but have a partner with better credit, that can help to offset any difficulty you might have.

  • Good credit: If your credit score is 660 or higher and you are buying a newer truck, you should be able to find financing. Additionally, the more you can put down, the easier it will be to secure a loan. Expect to put about 10 to 20 percent down.
  • Moderate credit: If your credit is reasonable and you are buying a newer truck, you will likely need a 10 to 20 percent down payment and a sizeable cash reserve of $7,500 or more in the bank. Financing companies like to be sure you have money to make payments if your business is not profitable.
  • Poor credit: If your credit is questionable, you will need high-value collateral, such as home or vehicle equity, in order to secure a loan. There are no reliable financing options for people with poor credit, no down payment, no reserved cash and no collateral.

Do you have credit “red flags?"

Your personal credit score mostly determines the monthly payments you’ll make. If you have poor credit, you’ll have to make a sizeable down payment or put up collateral in the form of home or vehicle equity. If you have certain red flags, however, you may not be able to secure financing.

  • Recent vehicle repossession: If you’ve recently had a vehicle repossessed, you may be considered too risky to finance. You may be able to find financing if the repossession was because of circumstances beyond your control or if you have money for a sizeable down payment.
  • Currently in bankruptcy or default: If you are in default on a major loan or are currently in an open bankruptcy, you’re not likely to find financing. However, if you have a discharged bankruptcy in your past, you should be able to find financing as long as you have a down payment or collateral.
  • Past due child support: You cannot finance a commercial vehicle if you’re past due on child support. Even companies that specialize in low- and no-credit financing and those who are OK with previous repossessions or bankruptcies will not work with anyone with child support arrears, so be sure that you are up to date.

How much is the down payment?

Your down payment will generally range from 0 to 50 percent down, with the majority falling between 10 and 25 percent. Some companies will also accept sizable collateral, such as a home or another commercial vehicle that you own outright. The amount of the down payment depends on several factors. Generally, the riskier your financial situation, the more of a down payment you will have to pay. Additionally, semi trucks tend to have higher down payments than vocational trucks.

  • Risky credit: A lower credit score generally equates to a higher down payment since the financing company will want to ensure they receive payment from you. In addition, if you have low cash reserves, you’ll be considered a long-term risk and may need to pay more money down.
  • New businesses and independent drivers: If you are a new business or an owner-operator, you are considered a risky investment because you may not have a well-established credit history or cash flow.
  • Age of the vehicle: Since an older vehicle is more likely to have expensive repairs or to have major problems before the life of a loan is complete, many commercial vehicle financing companies will not finance an older vehicle. Most companies say the vehicle must be ten years old or newer and will require a higher down payment percentage for older vehicles.

How much will payments be?

Most financing plans require month-to-month payments for a set period of time, such as 36 or 72 months. Your credit score generally predicts how sizeable your monthly payments will be.

  • Credit score: People with lower credit scores are usually charged higher monthly payments since future capital is considered riskier.
  • Lease or lease-to-own: Generally, lease deals have lower monthly payments than lease-to-own plans, but the money you put into a lease-only plan does not build any equity for the long-term.

What should you look for in a lease contract?

Some elements of a lease contract might be riskier or result in a higher overall cost to you.

  • Fuel taxes: Some carriers overcharge for fuel taxes, which costs the driver much more than they should have to pay.
  • Repair facility limits: Some carriers include a clause in the contract that requires the lessee to have all vehicle repairs done at carrier-owned repair facilities. Since these facilities set their own repair rates, these requirements almost always benefit the carrier and not the driver.
  • Large deposits, escrow or repair accounts: Some carriers require a large cash deposit, escrow or repair account. If you have to forfeit your contract or return a no-obligation vehicle, it’s possible that you could lose this money.

What types of semi and commercial truck financing are available?

Installment lease

The traditional form of financing for commercial vehicles is a lease that requires a down payment and monthly payments. You continue to make payments as long as you want to keep the vehicle, then give the vehicle back when you want to move on from your lease contract.

Lease-to-own

A lease-to-own plan is similar to a traditional lease except it requires a higher down payment, higher monthly payments and a set lease term, typically from 30 to 90 months depending on the amount of the payments and the value of the vehicle. At the end of the lease period, you own the vehicle, but if you become late on your payments or change your mind before completing the term of the lease, you lose the money you’ve paid to date in down payment and monthly payments.

Title loan

Some companies offer title loans to owner-operators who already have a vehicle but need cash for repairs, taxes or other fees associated with driving the vehicle. Your vehicle acts as collateral for the loan, and if you don’t make your payments on time or default on the loan you could lose the vehicle.

Who needs semi or commercial truck financing?

Semi owner-operators

Many drivers want to be independent and have the ability to work for themselves instead of a carrier. Financing a truck makes it much more affordable for owner-operators to get started or add vehicles to a newer fleet.

Fleet owners

Small to mid-sized business owners who need commercial work trucks or trailers of any kind, including dump trucks, refrigerated trucks, delivery trucks and more, often rely on financing in order to start or grow their fleet.

Those who need cash for repairs and fees

Commercial truck and semi drivers and fleet owners who need quick cash for engine repairs, overhauls, taxes and other fees associated with driving sometimes apply for loans through truck financing companies, using the title of vehicles they own as collateral.

Those with poor credit

Those with poor credit history may have a harder time securing financing but tend to need it most. It's especially important for those with poor finances or credit histories to be sure that they meet the terms of the financial agreement, since a defaulted loan or vehicle repossession can affect their livelihood.

Semi or commercial truck financing FAQ

How can I finance a semi truck with bad credit?

If you have bad credit and want to finance a semi truck, consider:

  • Securing your loan with collateral, like equity in your home or another vehicle
  • Saving up for a larger down payment
  • Getting a co-signer
  • Improving your credit score first

If you can’t do any of these things, reliable financing is going to be hard to find.

How long can you finance a commercial truck?

Lease-to-own plans go up to 90 months.

If you’re looking to buy, most commercial truck financing companies offer loans up to 60 months, but some lenders offer longer terms. Remember that, even though the monthly payments are lower with a longer term, you usually end up paying far more in interest.

Do I need a CDL to purchase a semi truck?

No, you can buy a semi truck without a commercial driver’s license. However, it may be difficult to get financing. Financing companies consider buyers without CDLs a high risk, and they may require someone with a CDL to guarantee the purchase.

Is leasing a semi truck a good idea?

Leasing a semi truck can be a good idea, depending on your needs and preferences. Consider leasing a semi truck if you:

  • Don’t have the money for a down payment
  • Want a shorter commitment
  • Don’t want to deal with maintenance
  • Want to upgrade your truck often

Just be aware that when you lease a semi truck, you don’t have any equity in it, and you may end up paying more over the long run.

Is a van a commercial vehicle?

Vans can be commercial vehicles if they’re used to conduct business. Different states and organizations have different definitions for commercial vehicles, so check with your state’s motor vehicle agency to see if your van qualifies. Most vans don’t require commercial driver’s licenses to operate, either.

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    Semi or commercial truck financing company reviews

    Ryder

    Ryder is an American transportation management company founded in 1933 and headquartered in Miami, Florida. It is perhaps best known for its fleet of rental trucks and also leases fleets and individual commercial vehicles such as delivery trucks, transit vans and freightliner trucks. Ryder acquired B.I.T. Leasing and Carmenita Leasing, Inc., and The Scully Companies, Inc. in 2011, further expanding its leasing holdings.

    • Fleet management service: Ryder’s biggest business segment is its fleet management, which provides contract-based full-service leasing, management, rental and support services for small- to medium-sized businesses.
    • Vehicle options: Ryder leases and rents a variety of commercial trucks with over 37,000 vehicles in its inventory, including single or tandem axle conventional tractors and sleeper tractors; Metro and City Van trucks, including refrigerated trucks; straight, refrigerated and stake trucks; and dry van, flatbed or refrigerated trailers.
    • Used selection: Ryder offers three classes of pre-owned trucks, vans, tractors, trailers and specialized equipment. Ryder Certified vehicles are the highest quality and have only been owned by Ryder. These have a full maintenance history, extended warranties and flexible financing. Ryder Verified vehicles are inspected and available with warranties. Reclassified used vehicles are sold in as-is condition and are damaged, but make good scrap vehicles.
    • Ryder ChoiceLease: Ryder recently launched its new leasing portfolio, ChoiceLease, which offers three flexible lease options: full service, preventative or on-demand. Full service provides bumper-to-bumper maintenance for new and pre-owned tractors and trailers. Preventative provides scheduled maintenance for new and used trucks, tractors and trailers. On-demand offers pay-as-you-go maintenance for pre-owned trucks, tractors and trailers and new trailers.
    • Financing options: Ryder offers both capital and operating leases. The Fair Market Value option includes a closed-end lease with no down payment and 100 percent financing. The FlexTrac option offers a capital lease with the customer responsible for residue value; this option gives you the opportunity to purchase the equipment at the end of the lease.
    OTR Leasing

    OTR Leasing specializes in owner-operator semi truck leasing. It offers a large inventory of late model used semi trucks, a quick application process and a high approval rate.

    • Credit requirements: OTR works with customers with poor credit, first-time owner-operators with three or more years driving history, fleet owners and those with on-time payment history for major bills and loans. It does not work with those with people who have unpaid or overdue child support, less than $5,000 down payment, serious criminal history or open bankruptcy.
    • Simple application process: OTR offers an online application followed by a telephone interview with an account representative. You will receive an approval or denial decision quickly, and if you’re approved you can choose your vehicle and make your down payment immediately.
    • Payment options: OTR Leasing offers easy payment options, including auto drafts from your bank account, credit card by telephone or online and Comcheck, EFS or Transcheck payments.
    • Large inventory: OTR leverages its scale buying power as one of the largest late-model semi buyers to pass on selection and savings to the customer. Their large selection of Peterbilt, Volvo, Freightliner, Kenworth and International trucks are all 2005 to 2014 models.
    • Quality: OTR guarantees its semis to be Department of Transportation compliant, with no body damage over $500 and a new mattress. They also have 12/32” or greater tire tread and 50% or greater brake life.
    Wil-Trans

    Wil-Trans is a trucking company based in Springfield, Missouri. Founded in 1980 and incorporated in 1990, Wil-Trans began as a fleet management company and now also offers lease and lease-purchase options for drivers. Drivers can lease their trucks and drive for Wil-Trans, then have the option to purchase their vehicles.

    • Revenue based pay: Lease operators are paid based on a percentage of the revenue generated by their truck plus 100 percent of the vehicle’s fuel surcharge. This provides incentive for efficient and safe driving.
    • Online application process: Drivers interested in working as a lease operator for Wil-Trans can fill out a secure online application. If you’d rather talk with someone, you can fill out a contact form and a representative will get in touch.
    • Longevity compensation: Lease operators who remain with the company for 5 years and maintain a dependable and safe driving record are given a $10,000 longevity compensation.
    • Full benefits: Lease operators receive the same full benefits as Wil-Trans’ company drivers, including health, dental, vision insurance, life and disability insurance. Wil-Trans also offers a rider program, driver referral bonus, spousal support system and pet program for all drivers.
    • Support: The company works with drivers, from CDL training to lease planning and purchase. The CEO and staff are involved in helping every driver succeed.
    Integrity Financial Groups

    Founded in 2011, Integrity Financial Groups is a semi and commercial truck and equipment finance company based in Midvale, Utah. It offers truck and equipment finance, bad credit finance and credit repair services.

    • Large equipment selection: Integrity Financial Groups finances a large selection of vehicles and equipment, including semi trucks, dump trucks, concrete transport trucks, heavy duty trucks, mobile cranes, garbage trucks, medium duty trucks, box trucks, flatbed trucks, semi-trailers, dry van trailers, refrigerated trailers, commercial trailers, flat bed and lowboy trailers and more.
    • Small or medium ticket financing: Integrity Financial Groups offers small ticket financing up to $150,000 or mid-ticket financing up to $10 million. These options are available for sole proprietorships, vendor resellers, franchises, corporations, nonprofits and more.
    • Customized lease options: Lease rates start at 5.49 percent with 18- to 60-month terms available. Integrity Financial Groups customizes your lease to your personal needs, credit history and preferences.
    • Online loan application: Customers can complete an online application and receive a financing decision quickly by phone.
    • Free credit consultation: Integrity Financial Groups offers a free credit repair consultation with a partner company. The company will obtain your credit report and counsel you on how to improve your credit score, which can help you save money over your financing term.
    Go Capital

    Go Capital is a semi truck, dump truck, construction truck and semi-trailer financing company founded in 2013 in Irvine, California. It offers financing solutions to people with many credit backgrounds with a focus on poor credit and owner-operators in all 50 states. It also works with trucking companies with small to medium sized fleets.

    • Poor credit options: Go Capital offers options for people with challenging credit histories. Its representatives take into account your credit history, industry experience, current financial situation and references before making financing decisions.
    • No truck limits: Go Capital funds all types of new and used semi-trucks, construction trucks, dump trucks and semi-trailers and, unlike most financiers, does not limit your choice of truck or supplier. You can find a truck through a local dealer, online, private party or even an auction and use your Go Capital funding to acquire it. If you need help locating a dealer, Go Capital’s account representatives have many industry connections to help you find the right vehicle.
    • Quick financing process: You can begin your application at Go Capital’s website by filling out a brief contact form. Applications are processed within a few hours on business days, and you will be contacted with the terms of the agreement. The entire process can take as little as one or two business days.
    • High approval rate: Your loan has a high chance of approval since Go Capital relies most heavily on your trucking experience and not your credit score when considering your application. Go Capital approves 97 percent of applications.
    • Title loans: Go Capital offers title loans to business owners looking to expand or support their trucking business. A semi-truck title loan, also called a sale lease back, secures financing against the value of your semi as collateral. This type of loan is available to consumers with any credit score.
    Lone Mountain Truck Leasing

    Lone Mountain is a semi truck lease-to-own dealer. It offers a simple process to own your own rig. After you’ve paid a down payment and made your monthly payments for the duration of the lease, you receive the title to your semi.

    • Five locations: Lone Mountain has locations in Omaha, Nebraska; Chicago, Illinois; North Las Vegas, Nevada; Fort Worth, Texas; and Tifton, Georgia. Customers can visit any of these locations to view current inventory or search inventory online. You can view detailed specifications and pricing.
    • Warranty: New trucks include a four-year, 500,000-mile factory warranty. Most used trucks include an engine warranty and a set of new drive tires.
    • Quick application process: The online application takes less than five minutes, and you can also apply over the phone. You can be approved in as little as one business day, and a Lone Mountain representative will contact you to decide which truck is best for you.
    • Flexible lease terms: Lease lengths vary from 33 months to 60 months. Newer vehicles require larger down payments, but with a variety of makes and models available you can find one in your price range.
    • Trade options: Lone Mountain accepts trade-in trucks as all or part of the transaction. Simply complete a trade request online with your information and details about the truck you’d like to trade, and a representative will let you know what kind of a deal they can offer.
    Big Rig Lending

    Big Rig Lending is a title loan company based in Dalton, Georgia. It works with commercial vehicle owner-operators to offer title loans against their vehicles to fund repairs, insurance, taxes or other expenses of operating the vehicle. Loans up to $15,000 are available in as little as 48 hours.

    • 10-4 Process: Applying for a loan with Big Rig Lending follows the “10-4 Process:" simply spend ten minutes on an online application and provide four photos including one each of your driver’s license, vehicle, vehicle’s odometer and vehicle title.
    • Quick funding: The entire application process takes as little as one day, and you can have your loan completed within 48 hours.
    • Commercial vehicle title loans: Big Rig Lending offers loans against many types of commercial vehicles, most commonly semis but also dump trucks, box trucks, car haulers and more. They plan to add a Trailer Cash program soon.
    • Two options: Big Rig Lending offers installment loans up to $15,000 at a fixed interest rate with monthly payments, or title pawns from $1,500 to $7,500 with flexible payment options for those with credit problems.
    • Referral bonus: Big Rig Lending offers a $100 referral bonus for every new customer referral who completes a transaction.
    CAG Truck Capital

    CAG Truck Capital is a commercial vehicle direct financing company located in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. It works with owner-operators and specializes in financing for commercial trucks and semis as well as engine overhaul financing.

    • Trucks financed: CAG Truck Capital finances semis and garbage, roll-off, chip, bucket, septic and pumper trucks. The customer locates a desired truck from a dealer of their choice, then seeks financing through CAG.
    • Engine overhaul financing: If your commercial vehicle or semi is in need of an engine overhaul, CAG Truck Capital offers financing for customers at many credit levels.
    • Early payoff options: CAG Truck Capital offers early payoff options for all of its loans and leases. CAG also helps with the trade-in and insurance claim processes if you suffer a total insurance loss.
    • Online applications: CAG Truck Capital offers truck and overhaul financing applications online. You’ll need information about your income, credit history, personal references and information about the vehicle or engine repairs you hope to finance.
    • Quick process: The process takes just a few minutes and you will be contacted by an account representative with more information. If you’re approved, the process takes just a few days to get your loan.
    Capital Solutions

    Founded in 1997, Capital Solutions is a commercial and semi truck financing company headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. It specializes in financing those with poor credit histories. It offers a 97 percent approval rate for those who pre-qualify.

    • Simple application: You can apply online or by telephone. The most important qualification to receive funding is your equity, including how much money you have for a down payment and what you can put up for collateral on the deal.
    • Poor credit: Capital Solutions’ average approved customer has a credit score of 567, and they specialize in those who have already been denied funding through banks or other financing sources.
    • Truck options: Capital Solution can fund older trucks than many companies, typically 2002 models or newer. You can purchase the truck from any dealer, and you can wait to pick it out after you’ve been approved so you know how much you can spend.
    • Early payoff: Capital Solutions offers an early payoff without penalty after nine months of on-time payments. You can also increase the amount of each payment to pay off your lease more quickly.
    • No large balloon payments: Many financing companies require a large payment at the end in order to settle a lease and own the vehicle, but Capital Solutions does not charge a higher final payment.
    Disclaimer

    Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.

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