Shipping and logistics businesses require fleet vehicles, warehouse infrastructure, and technology — plus working capital to bridge the gap between service delivery and customer payment. equipment financing and invoice factoring are the core products.
Why Shipping & Logistics Businesses Need Specialized Financing
Delivery vehicles are the primary asset class for logistics businesses. Vans, box trucks, and cargo vehicles can be financed through commercial vehicle lenders at 80–100% of value over 3–5 years, with the vehicle as collateral. A growing fleet is a growing capital need.
Warehouse and fulfillment operations require racking systems, forklifts, pallet jacks, and dock equipment — all financeable through equipment lenders at competitive rates.
Working capital needs are driven by the same payment-timing gap that affects all B2B freight: you deliver today, your customer pays in 30–60 days. Invoice factoring or a business line of credit bridges this gap without encumbering vehicles or equipment.
Loan Options for Shipping & Logistics Businesses
| Loan Type | Best For | Typical Amount | Rate Range | Term |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment Financing | Delivery vehicles, forklifts, warehouse equipment | $25K–$1.5M | 7%–22% APR | 3–7 yr |
| Invoice Factoring | Commercial shipping receivables | $10K–$5M | 1%–5%/30 days | Per invoice |
| Working Capital | Fuel, payroll, operational gaps | $25K–$500K | 10%–40% APR | 6–24 mo |
| SBA 7(a) | Fleet expansion, warehouse | $50K–$5M | 10%–13.5% APR* | 7–10 yr |
*SBA rates are variable. Rates shown are typical market ranges — verify with lenders before applying.
Typical Qualification Requirements
| Requirement | Typical Minimum |
|---|---|
| Time in Business | 12 months |
| Monthly Revenue | $20,000+ |
| Credit Score | 620+ |
Lenders evaluate revenue consistency and business health alongside credit score. Strong monthly deposits can partially offset a lower credit score at alternative lenders. Time in business of 12 months and monthly revenue of $20,000+ are the baseline thresholds for most products.
Rates for shipping & logistics businesses typically range from 7%–40% APR with loan amounts from $25,000–$1,500,000 depending on the product and your business profile.
Common Uses for Shipping & Logistics Business Financing
- Delivery vehicle fleet expansion: Delivery vehicle fleet expansion
- Warehouse and fulfillment equipment: Warehouse and fulfillment equipment
- Freight management technology: Freight management technology
- Fuel cost management: Fuel cost management
- Driver payroll: Driver payroll
How to Apply
- Confirm you meet the qualifications: 12 months in business, $20,000+ monthly revenue, 620+ credit score for most products.
- Prepare documents: 3–6 months business bank statements, 2 years tax returns (business and personal), business license and any professional certifications.
- Apply through our partner: Submit once, receive competing offers, compare total cost and payment structure before accepting.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related: Equipment Financing • Invoice Factoring • Working Capital Loans
Written by the SBLT Editorial Team. Informational only — not financial or legal advice.
Advertising Disclosure: Small Business Loans Today receives compensation when you click our partner link. Rates shown are typical market ranges — verify with lenders before applying.
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