Do Low Doc Loans Work for Commercial Vehicle Fleets?

Introduction

Running a business with multiple vehicles โ€” whether for deliveries, trades, or services โ€” often means youโ€™ll eventually need to expand or replace your fleet. But if you donโ€™t have complete financials or up-to-date tax returns, can you still get finance?

The answer: yes โ€” with low doc loans designed for businesses managing commercial vehicle fleets.


What Is a Low Doc Fleet Loan?

A low doc fleet loan allows you to finance multiple vehicles using alternative documents like:
โœ… 6โ€“12 months of business bank statements
โœ… An active ABN (usually at least 6โ€“12 months old)
โœ… BAS or accountantโ€™s letter (if available)
โœ… A 10โ€“20% deposit (sometimes per vehicle, depending on lender)

Itโ€™s ideal for businesses that need flexibility and speed without the burden of full documentation.


What Types of Vehicles Can Be Included?

โœ… Cars for sales or management teams
โœ… Vans for deliveries or mobile services
โœ… Utes for trades or construction
โœ… Light or medium trucks for logistics
โœ… Specialty vehicles (refrigerated vans, crane trucks, service trailers)

The key is commercial use โ€” each vehicle must be used at least 50% for business.


Case Study: Jadeโ€™s Cleaning Company

Jadeโ€™s commercial cleaning business secured two large office contracts, requiring three more vans. Without updated tax returns, she worried about approval.

By providing 12 months of bank statements, an active ABN, and a 15% deposit per van, Jade secured low doc loans for all three vehicles โ€” expanding her fleet and meeting contract demands.


Benefits of Low Doc Fleet Financing

โœ… Expand quickly without waiting for full financials
โœ… Maintain cash flow by spreading costs across loans
โœ… Get access to specialist lenders through brokers
โœ… Strengthen your business capacity and reach


Tips for Fleet Applications

โœ… Prepare a list of vehicles, including intended business use
โœ… Ensure all vehicles meet lender age and condition requirements
โœ… Work with a broker experienced in fleet financing
โœ… Be ready to provide a deposit, especially for larger or higher-risk fleets


Final Call to Action

Looking to finance multiple vehicles for your business?
โœ… Check your eligibility in just 20 seconds โ€” no commitments, no impact on your credit score.

Visit our Business Lending Hub here:
https://financetheride.com.au/pages/small-business-car-loans

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DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.

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All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

Whatโ€™s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans donโ€™t, but usually have higher rates.

What loan terms are available for car finance?

Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

How is interest calculated on a car loan?

Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

Can I get a car loan for a private sale?

Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. Youโ€™ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes โ€” many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

What credit score do I need as a government employee?

A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

Are corporate professionals eligible for low-rate finance?

Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

Can I get car finance with a novated lease?

Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

Can I get a car loan with no credit history?

Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

What if Iโ€™ve been declined elsewhere?

A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

How do I check my credit score?

Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

Can I get finance if I have a current personal loan?

Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

Can casual workers get car loans?

Yes, if youโ€™ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if Iโ€™m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

Whatโ€™s the minimum income to qualify for car finance?

Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

Can I apply on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, especially if itโ€™s government-backed.

Can I finance a used car?

Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

Can I get a loan for an SUV or family car?

Absolutely

Can I finance a caravan or motorbike?

Yes

Can I finance an EV or hybrid car?

Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

Can I use my car for both work and personal use?

Yes you can.

What is a balloon payment?

Itโ€™s a lump sum due at the end of the loan term.

Can I make extra repayments?

Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes โ€” ask if thereโ€™s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24โ€“48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes โ€” most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes โ€” and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

Can I get a loan with a visa?

Do I need a driverโ€™s licence to apply?

Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

Can I refinance my current car loan?

Yes โ€” it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

Can I trade in my old car as a deposit?

Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

Can nurses get car finance?

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Do defence personnel get special car loan rates?

Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

Can FIFO government workers apply?

Yes โ€” consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if Iโ€™m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if youโ€™re returning to work. Hereโ€™s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes โ€” just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

Can I finance a car from an auction?

Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

Can I get a car loan if Iโ€™ve been bankrupt before?

What if I want to upgrade my car before the loan ends?

You can sell the car, pay off the loan early, or refinance.