How to finance a bucket truck

How to Finance a Bucket Truck

Need a bucket truck for your business and not sure where to start? Whether you're expanding your fleet or replacing an older unit, this step-by-step guide will show you how to finance a bucket truck quickly—and without the usual red tape.

Most lenders prefer to work with businesses that have 650+ credit scores and 2+ years in business, but even if you’re close, we’ll explain what options are available.

Let’s walk through exactly how it works.

Step 1 – Know What You Qualify For

Before you shop for equipment or submit an application, it’s important to understand what lenders look for. This will save you time and help avoid denials.

The key qualification criteria:

  • Credit Score: Minimum 650 FICO

  • Time in Business: 2+ years preferred

  • Monthly Revenue: Around $15,000+ ideal

  • Entity Type: LLC or Corporation preferred, Sole Props accepted

  • Basic Docs: Driver’s license, 3 months of bank statements

These are the baseline bucket truck financing requirements. If you’re unsure where you stand, read our full breakdown here.

Knowing this up front helps you set realistic expectations and fast-track your approval.

Step 2 – Choose New or Used

Wondering how to finance a bucket truck that’s used? Good news—most commercial lenders (like us) finance both new and used units.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • New Bucket Trucks:

    • Higher cost

    • Longer lead times (especially with customization)

    • Lower maintenance needs

  • Used Bucket Trucks:

    • More affordable

    • Faster approvals

    • Must be under ~15 years old for most lenders

Most of our clients go with used trucks—they’re easier to qualify for, available faster, and cost far less up front.

Step 3 – Get an Equipment Quote or Listing

Once you know your budget and equipment type, the next step is to get a quote or listing.

This is required for your financing application—it tells the lender exactly what you’re buying, from whom, and for how much.

Acceptable forms include:

  • Dealer invoice or estimate

  • Private party sale listing (Craigslist, Facebook, etc.)

  • Auction listing or screen grab

Why is this important?

Because the lender is financing the truck itself—it’s the collateral. They need the VIN, mileage, specs, and condition to underwrite the deal.

Have this ready when you apply to avoid delays.

Step 4 – Apply Through a Commercial-Only Lender

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is trying to apply through a personal auto lender or bank.

Bucket trucks are commercial assets, and you need a lender who specializes in vocational equipment.

Here’s why going commercial-only matters:

  • Faster approvals (no personal-use confusion)

  • No tax returns or P&Ls required

  • Expertise in utility trucks, boom lifts, GVWR limits, and CDL rules

  • Approval based on credit + business performance, not personal savings

At TruckLenders USA, we’ve spent 30+ years doing only commercial vehicle financing. That means less paperwork, faster funding, and a process built for business owners—not consumers.

Step 5 – Get Approved & Funded

Once you submit your documents, here’s what happens next:

  • Initial Review: Our team reviews your app and quote (no hard pull required)

  • Approval: If qualified, you’ll get terms back in 24 hours

  • Final Docs: You sign digital documents (e-sign available)

  • Funding: We wire funds directly to the dealer, seller, or auction

From application to funding, the process typically takes 2–5 business days—depending on how quickly you provide documents.

That’s how to finance a bucket truck the smart way.

Why TruckLenders USA Makes This Easy

Let’s face it—most banks don’t understand what a bucket truck is, let alone how to underwrite one quickly. That’s where we come in.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Commercial-Only Focus: No confusion, no delays

  • Fast, No-Fluff Process: No tax returns, no hard pull, no nonsense

  • Over 30 Years of Experience: We know bucket truck specs, resale values, and boom types

  • Same-Day Approvals: For qualified buyers with docs ready

  • Used or New: Finance trucks from dealers, private sellers, or auctions

We’ve helped thousands of businesses secure the trucks they need—without red tape.

Ready to Finance Your Bucket Truck?

Now that you know how to finance a bucket truck, you’re one step away from getting it done.

If you’ve got:

  • 650+ credit

  • 2+ years in business

  • A valid business entity and revenue

  • A quote or listing for the truck

You’re ready to move forward.

Prequalify now—no hard credit pull and get your approval in as little as 24 hours.

Want more details on the programs we offer?
Learn more about our bucket truck financing program

Get A Quote Today!

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