Can you help freight forwarders and last‑mile operators with finance?
Yes. Best Business Loans can guide UK freight forwarders and last‑mile delivery operators to suitable lenders and brokers for a wide range of commercial finance solutions. We don’t lend directly, but our AI‑powered matching connects your logistics business with relevant providers for vehicles, equipment, cash flow and growth funding.
How we support UK freight forwarding and last‑mile delivery businesses
Who we can help
We commonly assist established UK logistics firms including international freight forwarders, customs and brokerage specialists, pallet networks, parcel couriers, same‑day and on‑demand operators, micro‑fulfilment providers, and urban last‑mile fleets. If you run HGVs, trailers, vans, e‑cargo bikes, or manage warehousing and cross‑dock hubs, we can help you explore suitable finance routes. Our platform focuses on businesses rather than start‑ups or sole traders.
What we actually do
We use intelligent data‑matching to introduce you to lenders and brokers who understand logistics. You complete a short Quick Quote, we analyse your profile, and then we connect you with providers who may offer terms appropriate for your needs. You remain in control and decide whether to proceed.
Typical funding use‑cases in logistics
- Acquiring or refinancing HGVs, vans, trailers, telematics, and materials‑handling equipment.
- Unlocking cash from invoices to manage seasonality, demurrage spikes, fuel spends, and port delays.
- Financing depot fit‑outs, racking, automation, software, and cold‑chain upgrades.
- Transitioning to low‑emission fleets, chargers, solar and energy‑efficiency projects.
Fast, fair, and people‑first
We aim to make the process clear, fair and not misleading, so you can make informed decisions. There is no obligation to accept any offer and we do not guarantee approval, specific rates, or outcomes. Eligibility, pricing and terms depend on your business status, credit profile, sector risks and asset quality.
Immediate answer
In short: we help freight forwarders and last‑mile operators find suitable finance partners quickly and transparently. Submit a Quick Quote to check eligibility, compare options, and get a Decision in Principle where available. It’s free to enquire and takes minutes.
Finance options tailored to logistics workflows
Asset finance for vehicles and equipment
Asset finance can spread the cost of HGVs, LCVs, trailers, forklifts, conveyors, depot tech and more. Options typically include hire purchase, finance lease and operating lease, subject to status and asset type. Terms can align with expected asset life, mileage and residuals, helping preserve cash.
Invoice finance for B2B freight and parcel work
Invoice factoring or discounting can release a percentage of your invoice value within days, with balance paid on customer settlement minus fees. This can reduce strain during extended payment terms, container dwell disputes or customs‑related delays. Many logistics firms pair invoice finance with fuel budgets to stabilise cash flow.
Working capital and revolving facilities
Some providers may offer unsecured or partially secured facilities for short‑term cash needs. These are often used to cover payroll, peak season contracts, emergency maintenance, or depot ramp‑ups. Rates and limits vary and will depend on turnover, profitability, trading history and credit profile.
Fit‑out, automation and technology
Finance can support depot refits, racking and mezzanines, barcode and WMS integration, telematics, route optimisation, customs and CDS software, and scanners. Spreading the cost can make productivity upgrades more manageable. Lenders may look for ROI, useful life and supplier credentials.
Sustainability and fleet transition
Operators exploring EV vans, e‑cargo bikes, battery‑electric HGV pilots, chargers and solar can often access specialist funding lines. Some lenders support Growth Guarantee Scheme loans for eligible businesses via accredited banks. External incentives and grants may apply, and providers will advise on availability.
For a deeper industry view, see our dedicated page on logistics business loans and funding pathways.
Eligibility, documents and how decisions are made
What lenders often look for
- Time trading and stability, often 12–24 months or more, depending on the product.
- Turnover, margins, debtor spread and debtor quality, especially for invoice finance.
- Fleet age and profile, asset condition, utilisation and service records for asset finance.
- Management experience, compliance record, O‑licences, and safety systems.
- Credit history, existing borrowing, and affordability based on cash flow.
Typical documents checklist
- Last 2 years’ filed accounts and recent management accounts.
- Business bank statements (usually 3–6 months).
- Aged debtor and creditor reports, plus top customer concentrations.
- Fleet asset list, quotes or invoices for new assets, and maintenance records.
- Director ID and proof of address, plus company details and licences.
How the process usually works
You complete a Quick Quote with high‑level details, including the intended use of funds. Our system matches your profile to providers that are active in logistics and likely to consider your case. You’ll then be introduced to discuss terms, provide documents, and seek a Decision in Principle.
Fast‑track tips for freight operators
- Prepare clear debtor reports with DSO trends and any credit insurance details.
- Share realistic utilisation and maintenance plans for vehicles or equipment.
- Explain peak seasons, route profiles, SLAs and subcontractor mixes.
- Highlight safety, compliance, and carbon‑reduction measures.
Being transparent about risks and mitigations helps lenders price accurately and respond faster. The more complete your information, the smoother the process. Turnaround times vary by product and provider.
Costs, risks, sustainability and compliance
Understanding costs and terms
Finance costs depend on product type, loan size, term, security, and credit risk. Asset finance may reference asset residuals, usage and age, while invoice finance fees depend on facility size, advance rate and debtor profile. Always review total cost of finance, early settlement conditions and ancillary fees before proceeding.
Managing risk in volatile markets
Freight rates, fuel prices, and port congestion can shift quickly, affecting cash flow. Consider facilities with headroom and covenants you can maintain in downswings. It may help to stagger renewals, diversify funding sources, and maintain strong debtor controls.
Funding the shift to cleaner delivery
Urban last‑mile businesses are moving to EVs and e‑cargo bikes to meet clean‑air and client targets. Finance can help phase upgrades, charging infrastructure and on‑site generation. Some lenders are building specialist lines for zero‑emission fleets and efficiency tech.
Clear, fair and not misleading
Best Business Loans is an independent introducer that helps you find and compare potential finance providers. We do not offer loans directly, provide financial advice, or guarantee acceptance, rates or timescales. Any illustration depends on your circumstances, and lending is subject to status, affordability, and lender criteria.
Important notices
- Eligibility and product availability can change, and fees or commissions may be payable to or by the provider.
- If you miss payments, your credit rating may be affected and assets may be at risk with secured finance.
- This content is general information only and not a recommendation or advice.
We aim to align with FCA, ASA and Google standards by ensuring promotions are clear, fair and not misleading. You should seek independent professional advice if you are unsure whether a product is suitable for your needs.
Next steps, FAQs and resources
How to get started
- Complete a Quick Quote with your funding need, amount, and brief business profile.
- Our AI matches your details to suitable lenders or brokers active in logistics.
- Receive introductions and, where possible, an Eligibility Check or Decision in Principle.
- Compare terms, ask questions, and proceed only if the finance fits your goals and cash flow.
Freight and last‑mile FAQs
Can you arrange funding for trailer fleets? Yes, many providers offer asset finance for trailers, reefers and specialised bodies, subject to asset age, specification and residuals. You can also explore refinance against unencumbered assets.
Do you help with invoice finance for freight forwarders? Yes, we can connect you with invoice finance providers used to transport and logistics debtors. They typically assess debtor quality, concentrations and dispute history.
Can we finance EV vans or e‑cargo bikes? Many lenders will consider zero‑emission vehicles and micromobility fleets, and some support charging infrastructure finance. Terms will reflect asset life, warranty and secondary market factors.
How fast is the process? Speed depends on product type, document readiness, and provider capacity. Some asset and invoice facilities can progress to in‑principle decisions quickly once the essentials are supplied.
Are start‑ups or sole traders supported? Our focus is on established companies, and we don’t currently support start‑ups, sole traders, franchises, property finance or commercial mortgages. If you’re unsure, submit a Quick Quote and we’ll confirm if we can help.
Why choose Best Business Loans
- AI‑driven matching to filter providers aligned to logistics.
- Sector context across forwarding, parcels, Sameday and urban last‑mile.
- Time‑saving introductions and no‑obligation enquiries.
- Transparent about what we can and cannot do.
Key takeaways
- We don’t lend, but we connect freight forwarders and last‑mile operators to relevant UK finance providers.
- Options include asset finance, invoice finance, working capital, fit‑out, tech and sustainability funding.
- Decisions depend on trading history, cash flow, debtor quality and asset specifics.
- Enquiries are free and without obligation, and a Decision in Principle may be available.
Updated: October 2025. Information is subject to change, and availability varies by lender and eligibility. Submit your Quick Quote to check current options for your business.