Trailer Finance

Who we help

• Tradies and sole traders: enclosed tool trailers and fitted-out service trailers
• Plant and civil operators: tag and plant trailers for moving excavators, skid steers and rollers
• Car carrier and transport businesses: tandem and tri-axle car carriers and flatbeds
• Farmers and livestock owners: cattle crates, sheep trailers and stock trailers
• New ABN holders: some lenders will consider businesses that are still building a trading history
• Personal buyers: a box or camping trailer for home use

How trailer finance is usually structured

For a business, the most common structure is a chattel mortgage: the business owns the trailer from the start and the lender takes security over it. A finance lease or hire purchase may also be offered, depending on how you want ownership and tax treatment to work. For personal use, a consumer secured loan or an unsecured personal loan is more typical.

Small trailers can fall below some lenders' minimum loan amounts. In that case a personal loan, or adding the trailer to finance for the vehicle that tows it, may be simpler. Your broker can tell you what's practical for the amount involved.

Tax points for business buyers

These are general points only, so check how they apply to you with your accountant:

• With a chattel mortgage, the business can generally claim interest and depreciation for the business-use portion.
• If you're registered for GST, you may be able to claim the GST on the purchase price as a credit, subject to ATO rules.
• Small businesses with turnover under $10 million can use the instant asset write-off for eligible assets costing less than $20,000 each. That threshold was made permanent from 1 July 2026, and many trailers fall under it.

What lenders look at for trailers

For business applications, lenders usually look at how long your ABN has been active, whether you're registered for GST, your industry experience and how the trailer will earn its keep. They'll also want the trailer's build plate details, especially for heavier trailers that need compliance with ADR (Australian Design Rules) and registration with your state transport authority.

How it works

1. Tell us about the trailer and your situation in the short form below.
2. A licensed broker calls you, usually within one business day, to talk through your options.
3. If it suits you, they handle the application with a lender that fits your circumstances.

What you'll usually need

• Photo ID, usually an Australian driver licence
• Your ABN, and recent BAS or tax returns if you're self-employed
• Payslips or bank statements if you're buying for personal use
• Trailer details: dealer quote or tax invoice, or seller details and VIN for a private sale
• Details of any existing equipment or vehicle finance

Every lender has its own criteria, so your broker will tell you exactly what's needed for your situation.

Trailer and business finance guides

• What is a chattel mortgage and how does it work?
• How GST affects finance for businesses
• How long do I need an ABN to get finance?
• Low-doc loans for builders and construction companies
• Tax deductions for business vehicle loans
• Equipment and machinery finance

Common questions

Can I finance a trailer with a new ABN?

Possibly. Many lenders prefer an ABN that's been active for a year or two, but some will consider newer businesses, particularly with industry experience, a deposit or property ownership. A broker can tell you which lenders fit.

Can I finance a second-hand trailer?

Often, yes. Used trailers from dealers and private sellers can usually be financed, although lenders may ask for the VIN, build plate details and confirmation there's no money owing.

Is there a minimum amount for trailer finance?

Some lenders have minimum loan amounts for secured finance. For smaller trailers, a personal loan or bundling the trailer with other finance may be more practical.

Can I claim the trailer on tax?

If it's used in your business, you can generally claim depreciation and interest for the business-use portion, and eligible small businesses may be able to use the instant asset write-off. Check with your accountant.

Does enquiring affect my credit score?

No. Filling in our enquiry form isn't a credit application. A credit check only happens if you choose to go ahead with an application through the broker.