What Is a Chattel Mortgage for Trailer Finance? 🛻🔐

If you're an ABN holder or sole trader looking to finance a trailer for work, you'll likely come across the term “chattel mortgage.”

But what does it actually mean — and is it the right option for your business?

Here’s a breakdown of how it works and why it’s so popular for commercial trailer loans in Australia.

✅ What Is a Chattel Mortgage?

A chattel mortgage is a type of secured business loan where:

  • 🛻 The trailer is the “chattel” (asset)
  • 💰 You receive the loan to purchase it
  • 🔐 The lender registers a mortgage over the trailer until the loan is paid off

Once the loan is repaid, the mortgage is released — and the trailer is 100% yours.

💡 Why Is It Popular for Trailer Finance?

Chattel mortgages are one of the most commonly used structures for financing business-use trailers in Australia because:

  • ✅ You own the trailer from day one
  • ✅ You may be able to claim GST, depreciation, and interest (check with your accountant)
  • ✅ Loan terms are flexible (2–5 years, optional balloon)
  • ✅ Works well for ABN-only and low-doc applicants

📋 What You’ll Typically Need to Apply

To apply for a chattel mortgage, you’ll usually need:

  • ✅ Active ABN
  • ✅ Proof the trailer is for business use
  • ✅ Driver’s licence
  • ✅ Invoice or quote for the trailer
  • ✅ Optional: bank statements (low-doc) or financials (full-doc)

Even if your business is less than 12 months old, some lenders will still consider your application — especially with a deposit.

💸 Balloon Payments With Chattel Mortgages

You can also structure a chattel mortgage with a balloon/residual payment, which:

  • Reduces monthly repayments
  • Leaves a lump sum due at the end
  • Can be refinanced, paid out, or offset by selling/trading the trailer

This is common for tradies managing cash flow over a longer job cycle.

🧠 Why Go Through a Broker?

Brokers can:

  • Help you structure your chattel mortgage correctly
  • Match you to lenders who accept ABN-only or low-doc deals
  • Advise on whether a balloon or full payout structure suits your cash flow
  • Make sure the loan works with your tax and business goals

🚀 Ready to Own Your Trailer Outright?

We’ll connect you with a broker who can get you approved for a chattel mortgage — fast, flexible, and structured around your business.

👉 Start My Trailer Finance Application

 

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.