Trailer Finance
Whether you are adding a trailer to an existing prime mover, replacing an ageing unit, or setting up a complete rig from scratch, getting the right finance structure matters.
Sierra Finance gives you access to 50+ lenders who specialise in commercial trailer finance, with approvals typically turned around within 24 to 48 hours.
We handle the full process from application through to settlement so you can focus on winning the work.
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How Trailer Finance Works
Most commercial trailers are financed using a chattel mortgage or commercial hire purchase, though finance leases and operating leases are also available depending on how you want to treat the asset on your books.
With a chattel mortgage, you take ownership of the trailer from day one while the lender holds security over it until the loan is paid out. This is the most common structure for owner operators and small fleet owners because it keeps things simple and lets you claim GST credits upfront on the purchase price.
Commercial hire purchase works similarly but ownership technically transfers at the end of the term. Finance leases suit operators who prefer to keep the trailer off their balance sheet, while operating leases can work well for businesses that upgrade trailers regularly and want to hand them back at the end of the term.
Your broker will match the structure to your business setup, your accountant's preferences, and the way you actually use the trailer. Loan terms typically run from two to seven years, and balloon or residual payments can be built in to reduce your regular repayments during the term.
What You Can Finance with Trailer Finance
Sierra Finance arranges funding for all types of commercial trailers, whether new or used, purchased through a dealer, direct from the manufacturer, via private sale, or at auction.
The trailers we finance most commonly include semi trailers, curtainsiders and tautliners, flat tops and drop decks, tippers and side tippers, refrigerated trailers, car carriers, low loaders and float trailers, livestock and stock crate trailers, tanker trailers, dog trailers, skeletal trailers, and plant trailers.
Custom built and purpose built trailers can also be financed, though lenders will typically want a clear specification and in some cases a valuation to confirm the asset's worth. If you are buying a trailer that has been modified or built to suit a specific application, we work with lenders who understand these assets and can assess them properly.
Both registered and unregistered trailers can be financed. Unregistered plant trailers and some agricultural trailers have fewer lender options, but our panel includes lenders who are comfortable with these assets provided the borrower's profile supports the file.
Finance amounts for trailers generally range from $20,000 through to $500,000 or more for refrigerated units, B-double sets, or multi-trailer fleet purchases.
Who Trailer Finance Is For
Trailer finance is used by a wide range of businesses across transport, logistics, agriculture, construction, and waste management. The most common borrowers we work with include:
Owner operators who already have a prime mover and need to add or replace a trailer to match a new contract or expand their capacity. Transport and logistics companies building or refreshing a fleet of curtainsiders, flat tops, or refrigerated trailers. Farmers and agricultural businesses purchasing livestock trailers, grain trailers, or plant trailers for seasonal use. Construction and earthmoving operators financing tippers, low loaders, or float trailers to move machinery between sites. Waste management companies adding side loaders, compactor trailers, or hook lift bins to their fleet.
You do not need to have been in business for years to qualify. Lenders on our panel finance businesses from one day ABN through to large established fleets. Low doc options are available for borrowers who do not have up to date financials, and we regularly assist operators with imperfect credit histories.
Why Use a Broker For Trailer Finance
Trailer finance is more nuanced than it looks. The lender that gives you the best rate on a prime mover may not be the best option for the trailer that goes behind it, because different lenders have different policies on trailer types, age limits, registration status, and custom builds.
Going direct to a single bank or dealer finance provider means you get one set of terms with no comparison. A broker compares options across 50+ lenders in a single application, matching the right lender to the specific trailer you are buying and your business profile.
This is especially valuable when you are financing both a truck and trailer together but the strongest deal comes from splitting them across two lenders, one for the prime mover and one for the trailer. A broker can structure that for you and manage both settlements, which is something a single bank or dealer will never offer.
We also handle the entire process from application to settlement, including liaising with the seller or manufacturer on invoicing, coordinating payout of any existing finance, and ensuring clear title transfer.
Get a Free Trailer Finance Quote
Compare trailer finance options from 50+ lenders with no obligation. One application, multiple options.
Getting Trailer Finance
Step 1: Tell us what you need
Call us on 0416 960 969 or fill out the enquiry form with some basic details about the trailer you are looking at, whether it is new or used, and how much you need to borrow. We will have a quick conversation to understand your business and what structure will work best.
Step 2: We find your best option
We compare your file across our panel of 50+ lenders and come back to you with the strongest options, including rate, term, repayment amount, and any conditions. Most files receive a response within 24 to 48 hours.
Step 3: Settlement and pickup
Once you are happy with the offer, we handle the paperwork, coordinate with the seller or manufacturer, and manage settlement. You collect your trailer and start putting it to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Finance a Trailer? Compare Australia's Top Lenders
Call us on 0416 960 969 or fill out the form below for a same business day response. We will compare options from 50+ lenders and come back to you with the best available deal for your trailer.