BUSINESS LENDING HUB

How to Finance a Tag Trailer (Machinery Tag Along Trailer) in Australia

Tag Trailers Are Very Financeable — Even for New or Small Operators

Tag trailers (often called tag-along machinery trailers) are essential for transporting excavators, skid steers, rollers, compactors, trenchers, and other civil machinery. Because they’re used in earthmoving, construction, landscaping, local council work and hire operations, lenders consider them highly reliable commercial assets.

The good news:
Tag trailers are easy to finance, even if:

  • your ABN is under 12 months old

  • you don’t have full financials

  • you’re upgrading your transport capability

  • you’re adding a second or third machinery trailer

  • you’re buying via private sale

With most tag trailers priced between $100,000 and $150,000, finance is the preferred method for nearly all contractors.

If you need a simple ABN-only or low-doc finance option, start here:
https://financetheride.com.au/pages/small-business-car-loans

Why Lenders Like Funding Tag Trailers

From a lender’s perspective, tag trailers are low-risk because:

  • they service multiple high-demand industries

  • they generate consistent income for contractors

  • they have strong resale value

  • they can be used with most medium to heavy rigid trucks

  • they’re often used in government or civil projects

Tag trailers regularly support:

  • civil construction

  • machinery hire companies

  • landscaping operations

  • councils and government contractors

  • infrastructure projects

  • regional transport

This broad operational use makes tag trailers a stable and dependable finance option.

If you’re financing additional equipment (tippers, skid steers, excavators), view broader commercial lending here:
https://financetheride.com.au/pages/equipment-finance-australia-fast-low-doc-equipment-loans

What Determines the Price of a Tag Trailer?

The final cost depends on specifications such as:

  • ATM / payload rating

  • hydraulic or manual ramps

  • deck length

  • trailer steel grade

  • suspension system

  • toolboxes and tie-down rails

  • civil or machinery-spec design

  • new vs used condition

Trailers in the $100k–$150k range generally include heavy-duty construction and hydraulic ramps designed for regular machinery transport.

Best Finance Structures for Tag Trailers

Contractors and transport operators typically choose from these four commercial loan structures:

1. Chattel Mortgage

✔ Tax-effective
✔ Most flexible
✔ Immediate ownership

2. Commercial Lease

✔ Strong cashflow protection
✔ Ideal for regular fleet upgrades

3. Rent-to-Own

✔ Popular for newer operators
✔ Less documentation required

4. Low-Doc / ABN-Only Finance

✔ Fast approvals
✔ Minimal financials
✔ Designed for small or growing operators

If you're part of the construction or earthmoving sector moving multiple machines, you may benefit from these linked loan pathways:
https://financetheride.com.au/pages/construction-earthmoving-equipment-finance-australia-low-doc-abn-loans

Why Brokers Get Better Results Than Banks for Tag Trailer Finance

Banks often take a conservative view of trailers and may ask for:

  • two years of tax returns

  • BAS statements

  • extensive service history

  • slow, manual assessments

A broker cuts through all of that by placing your application with lenders who finance machinery trailers every day.

A broker gives you:

  • faster approvals

  • fewer credit enquiries

  • private-sale friendly lending

  • flexible deposit options

  • competitive commercial rates

  • better approval odds for new ABNs

If you service agricultural contractors or move farm machinery, you may qualify for additional lending flexibility here:
https://financetheride.com.au/pages/agricultural-farming-equipment-finance-australia-low-doc-abn-loans

Should You Buy New or Used?

New tag trailers:
✔ Strongest approval rate
✔ Highest safety & compliance standards
✔ Longer working life
✔ Lower maintenance costs

Used tag trailers:
✔ More affordable
✔ Good for operators adding capacity
✔ Common in private sales

Both options are financeable — condition and build quality matter most.

Ready to Finance Your Tag Trailer?

Begin with a simple eligibility check. It’s fast, obligation-free and won’t affect your credit score. You’ll get clarity on repayments, borrowing limits and the best lender for your specific operation.

A well-financed tag trailer becomes a revenue-driving asset that supports growth across construction, civil, landscaping and machinery transport.

 

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.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’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. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes — 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 I’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 you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if I’m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

What’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 it’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?

It’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 — ask if there’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?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — 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 — 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?

Yes, in some cases. see finance for visa holders here.

Do I need a driver’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 — 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?

Yes — see nurse-specific finance tips.

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Yes. Read how to get approved.

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 — consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes — 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 I’ve been bankrupt before?

Yes — see bad credit car loan options.

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

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