Archives November 2024

There are several ways to finance a tow truck, including equipment financing, bank loans, and leasing. These options give you the flexibility to choose the one that best suits your business needs. 

The great news? There’s always an option available for you. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about tow truck financing and how to select the best option to increase your chances of approval.

WHY YOU SHOULD FINANCE A TOW TRUCK

Recent market trends show that the price range for a new tow truck varies from $90k to over $150k based on the model and manufacturer you choose to go with. Unless you’ve got that hefty sum tucked away safe, it might be wise to look into financing options​. The bright side is that there are many financing alternatives out there​. 

Deciding to finance a tow truck instead of buying it with cash upfront is beneficial due to the tax benefits that come with it along the way! Through financing, purchase expenses can be deducted from your income resulting in tax savings for your business operations! 

For instance, If your business generates a revenue below $10 million and you invest in a truck valued at $20k, there’s a possibility to deduct the entire cost of the vehicle in that same fiscal year.

Similarly, choosing a lease agreement could allow you to deduct the full lease payment as a tax write-off, whereas with a purchase option, you wouldn’t qualify for these deductions

TYPES OF TOW TRUCK FINANCING

Every trucking company is different, which is why there isn’t a universal financing solution. There are factors to take into account when exploring financing options. 

Achieving the best financing strategy entails understanding your company’s circumstances and selecting an option that aligns better with your business considering cash flow capacity, size of the operation, and budget constraints.

Let’s take a look at some of these types of tow truck financing so that you can make informed decisions. 

TRADITIONAL BUSINESS LOANS

If you walk up to a bank to ask for a loan to finance your tow truck, there is a high chance you walk out with the amount you need provided you meet their terms and conditions. This is called a traditional business loan. 

These are loans you take from banks or credit unions to finance any aspect of your business, including purchasing a vehicle. For this type, you would need an ideal credit score, a down payment, and collateral, which in this case will be the tow truck. 

EQUIPMENT FINANCING

Just like a mortgage helps you purchase a house, equipment financing helps you purchase any equipment for your business. This means this type of loan cannot be used for any other thing. 

Qualifications for equipment point directly to your ability to pay back, which is why it is more common for lenders to give 80% of the equipment value, while 20% serves as a down payment. Similar to the traditional loan alternative, the truck serves as collateral. 

Length for repayment can range from between months to years, and the interest rates depend on agreed-upon terms. 

LEASING

When you opt for equipment financing, you get to own the truck when your debt is paid, but that is not the case for leasing. Of all tow truck financing, leasing seems to be the less expensive option because it requires no down payment or high interest rates. However, you cannot own the truck at the end of the lease term. 

So why opt for leasing at all? 

Leasing is an attractive option for businesses who are looking at upgrading their trucks to newer models. What this means is that you can lease new or better truck models as you see fit. Regardless you can go for lease-to-own agreements, which allows you to purchase the truck after leasing is complete, but this comes with its conditions. 

BUSINESS LINE OF CREDIT

A business line of credit is a credit system that allows you to access funds on an as-needed basis. It works best for short-term loans and can be used to pay for your down payments and other expenses like repairs. 

ALTERNATIVE FINANCING OPTIONS

If credit score and business history are a concern for you, then you should consider alternative financiers. These are lenders that provide tow truck financing with bad credit. Best of all? You can find them online. 

Because they provide tailored financing solutions, you can expect flexible funding solutions such as quicker approvals and more adaptable terms, compared to banks. If you are new to the business without a credit score and business history, this is the option you can look out for and explore. 

QUALIFICATION FOR TOW TRUCK FINANCING

While we have already covered some of these, let’s have a checklist of the basic things a bank or lender will look out for before giving you a tow truck loan:

• A FICO score of 650 and above
• At least three in business
• A minimum of 20% down payment
• No recent bankruptcies
• High credit balance, etc

HOW TO APPLY FOR TOW TRUCK FINANCING

RESEARCH THE FINANCING OPTIONS

Now that you know that there are different financing options available, the first step is knowing the right one for your business. Evaluate your business needs and financial strength to know the best option. 

APPLY FOR FUNDING

Once you have found the perfect choice for your business, begin the application process. Gather vital documents like 

• Business balance sheet
• Business and personal tax returns 
• Bank statement
• A copy of CDL
• Vehicle documents

Having all documents ready will make you prepared and make the application process easy. The application process will include stages like prequalification where the lender reviews essentials like credit score, revenue, and business history. Here, you get an idea of the loan amount and terms you may qualify for.

GET FUNDED

After going through the pre-qualification process, you and the lender will discuss essentials like loan terms like down payments, repayment length, interest rates, and more. Once this is done and finalized, you can get approved and get funded.

CONCLUSION

Finding the right tow truck for your business is easier than you think. With the right financing plan and a clear understanding of your needs, you’ll be ready to hit the road and drive toward success in no time.

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

Inspired Funding has helped hundreds of truck companies secure the trucks they need to succeed. Whether you’re expanding your fleet, starting a new business, or navigating bad credit, we’re here to make truck financing simple and stress-free. 

We specialize in truck financing designed to get your business on the road to success. From box trucks and dump trucks to cargo vans, semi-trucks, and other vocational vehicles, our process is easy. Get guaranteed low payment on used and no hard pulls on credit scores. 

With competitive interest rates, flexible down payments, and manageable repayment plans, you can focus on growing your business without the stress. Start your journey to funding today!

With many industries relying on logistics daily, it’s no surprise that the trucking industry has experienced significant growth over the years.

The United States of America is home to some of the world’s biggest trucking companies that  contribute to bridging the supply chain gap and keeping the economy running efficiently.

In this article, we have compiled some of America’s largest trucking companies for your reading pleasure. We’ve also added some unknown or known facts that make these companies special.

UPS (UNITED PARCEL SERVICES INC.)

Location: Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Revenue: $91 billion (2023)

Employee: 500,000

Founded in 1907 and originally known as American Messenger Company, United Parcel Services (UPS) has grown to become one of the world’s largest shipping companies. As the biggest trucking company in the US, UPS owns over 115,000 package delivery trucks and delivers over 22.3 million packages per day.

Fun fact about UPS: UPS trucks are brown because the color hides dirt and mud, making them easier to maintain. This shade of brown deliberately chosen by the founder is similar to Pullman railroad cars, which symbolized luxury and reliability. It has become an iconic symbol of the brand to date as we now hear UPS brown.

FEDEX CORPORATIONS

Location: Memphis, Tennessee, United States

Revenue::$88 billion

Employees: 530,000

Frederick W. Smith founded Federal Express Corporation in 1971, which is now one of the biggest trucking companies in the US. FedEx serves over 220 countries and delivers more than 3 billion packages a year. 

Fact about FedEx: There is an arrow shape between the E and x on the logo. 

XPO LOGISTICS

Location: Greenwich, Connecticut, United States

Revenue::$16.97 billion

Employees:39,000

XPO Logistics has a broad portfolio in the transportation and logistics business, rendering services such as full truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), ground/air transportation, and last-mile, among others. 

XPO Slogan: We are XPO. Together, let’s move the world forward.

J.B. HUNT TRANSPORT SERVICES, INC.

Location: Lowell, Arkansas, United States

Revenue: $12.83

Employees: 33,045

J.B. Hunt provides supply chain solutions such as dock-to-dock transportation and doorstep delivery. Its services also extend into truckload and intermodal services, all made possible via its 12,000 trucks and 100,000 trailers.

Fact about J.B. Hunt: The company began as a rice hull operation in Stuttgart, Arkansas.

KNIGHT–SWIFT TRANSPORT SERVICES

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Revenue: $9.01 billion

Employees: 34,800

Knight-Swift Transport services operates a wide range of services from dry and temperature-based trucking, including dry vans, flatbeds, and reefers, thus tending to many industries. With over 4,000 trucks, Swift’s dry van fleet travels more than 11 million miles per week.

Facts about Knight-Swift: Knight-Swift’s fleet primarily features automatic trucks from top brands like Volvo, International, Kenworth, and Freightliner.

SCHNEIDER

Location: Green Bay, Wisconsin, United States

Revenue: $5.58 billion

Employees: 16,050

Schneider specializes in truckload, brokerage, long-haul, supply chain management, intermodal, and general logistics services. Schneider has a fleet of around 9,000 company trucks and 2,800 partnerships with owner-operators.

Facts about Schneider: Schneider received the Deloitte Wisconsin 75 sustainability award for reducing carbon emissions.

LANDSTAR SYSTEMS

Location: Jacksonville, Florida, United States

Revenue: $4.8 billion

Employees: 1,468

Landstar System is known particularly for its third-party logistics services with over 11,000 independent owner operators, or BCOs (business capacity owners). It also provides truckload, step-deck, expedited, border crossing, air freight, temperature-controlled, and rail intermodal services worldwide.

Fact about Landstar System: Landstar System, Inc. has been recognized as an “Elite 30” company in 2024 “Top Companies for Women to Work in Transportation” award.

OLD DOMINION 

Location: Thomasville, North Carolina, United States

Revenue: $5.97 billion

Employees: 23,000

As one of the US’ largest trucking companies, Old Dominion Freight Line, ODL provides regional, inter-regional, and national less-than-truckload freight services. With over 11,000 trucks, Old Dominion’s services include expedited transportation, truckload brokerage, supply chain consulting, and container drayage.

Fact about Old Dominion: Old Dominion is the official freight carrier for Major League Baseball (MLB).

WERNER ENTERPRISE

Location: Omaha, Nebraska

Revenue: $3.3 billion

Employees: 25,000

Werner Enterprises is known for its transportation services for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of furniture. 

Werner had over 8,300 trucks and 30,000 offering various logistics services across North America.

Facts about Werner Enterprises: Werner uses AI Dash Cams to review safety events.

RYDER SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS

Location: Miami, Florida 

Revenue: $1.3 billion

Employees: 10,000

Ryder Supply Chain Solutions prides itself on being “the only third-party logistics provider (3PL company) in the industry to offer fully integrated port-to-door supply chain solutions.” They also offer inbound, outbound, truckload (TL), less than truckload, and reverse logistics with their over 13,000 vehicles.

Fact about Ryder Supply Chains Solutions: Ryder has a record of a 99% on-time delivery rate.

CONCLUSION

Did you know that many of today’s top trucking companies started with just one truck and a big dream? Your trucking business could be the next success story to make headlines. With the right business plan and a financing partner, achieving fleet expansion is an achievable goal.

Start by exploring the best truck business opportunities that align with your goals. Once you’ve found your niche, find a financing partner to help you fund your truck. 

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

At Inspired Funding, we’re here to make your truck acquisition leap as smooth as possible. We specialize in hassle-free truck financing designed to get your business on the road to success. From box trucks and dump trucks to cargo vans, semi-trucks, and other vocational vehicles, our process is easy.

Our financing comes with competitive interest rates, down payments, and repayments that ensure that you can focus on your business without fear or worry.

This holiday period, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is on the move, taking off from the gorgeous Tongass National Forest, Alaska, and heading towards the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol situated in Washington D.C.

It is a long and joyous excursion, and for the sixth year in succession, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has been at the forefront in raising awareness on road safety within the festive season. This awareness has particularly focused on the safety of children & the elderly when there are large trucks and buses on the roads.

You can join in the fun of this national ‘road trip’, discover facts about the tree or even find out the closest place to you ‘along the way’. See www.uscapitolchristmastree.com for a comprehensive list and sources.

THE ROLE OF TRUCKS IN SAFELY DELIVERING THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

The trucking industry, with its nearly 14.8 million large trucks and buses registered nationwide, is the backbone of America’s transportation network. These vehicles keep the country running year-round, delivering goods, services, and—this holiday season—spreading joy with the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree.

As you travel to visit loved ones or complete holiday errands, it’s more important than ever to practice road safety, particularly when driving near large trucks and buses. Let’s work together to ensure a safe and joyful holiday season for everyone on the road.

KEY ROAD SAFETY TIPS:

• Avoid Blind Spots: If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in the mirror, they can’t see you. Stay visible.
• Allow Stopping Distance: Trucks need more space to stop. Avoid cutting in front of them.
• Watch for Wide Turns: Give trucks extra room when turning.

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

If you’re looking for the best financing for your truck business, Inspired Funding is here for you. With tailored financing plans and a range of flexible options, we make it easy for you to get the truck you need and make paying for it a breeze.

Inspired Funding has been helping businesses finance various commercial vehicles, including semi-trucks, cargo vans, dump trucks, and other essential heavy equipment to keep your business moving. We offer competitive interest rates and affordable down payments to fit your budget.

Worried about credit? No problem! We can help you navigate credit score challenges by providing financing solutions designed to get you on the road faster.

Ready to finance a bulldog or a dragon wagon? Give us a call today to get started!

Box trucks are essential vehicles designed for transporting goods and handling medium to large deliveries, which makes them a key investment for businesses. Acquiring these trucks attracts a significant upfront, especially when aiming to establish a commercial fleet. Many small businesses may find it difficult to afford the full cost for such a big purchase.

A smart business move is to consider box truck financing. This option enables new and small business owners to secure the vehicles they need for deliveries, goods transportation, or service provision, all while managing cash flow effectively.

WHAT IS BOX TRUCK FINANCING AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Box truck financing is a service that helps businesses acquire box trucks without having to pay the full price upfront. It’s especially useful for small businesses that need these trucks for deliveries, transporting goods, or providing services. Whether you choose to buy or lease, financing can make it more affordable.

Financing allows you to spread the payments over time, helping you keep cash on hand for other business needs. 

By breaking down this initial investment into monthly payments, companies can secure the vehicles they need to meet customer expectations without putting undue stress on their finances.

When you opt for box truck financing, you’ll typically sign an agreement with a lender, which could be a bank, credit union, or a dedicated truck financing company. This arrangement allows you to make monthly payments for a specified period, making it easier to manage your budget.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BOX TRUCK FINANCING AND REGULAR AUTO LOANS

LOAN AMOUNTS

Auto loans are generally smaller and meant for personal cars. Box truck equipment financing, however, allows businesses to take out larger loans, which can cover the cost of multiple trucks or specialized commercial vehicles.

INTEREST RATES AND REPAYMENT TERMS

Regular auto loans usually have lower interest rates and longer repayment terms since lenders consider individual borrowers less risky with steady incomes. On the other hand, box truck financing often comes with higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms because business incomes can fluctuate.

DOCUMENTATION AND QUALIFICATION

For regular auto loans, lenders mainly look at the borrower’s credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio. Commercial truck financing involves more paperwork, requiring business financial statements and a business plan to assess the company’s financial stability.

TAX AND INSURANCE

Interest on regular auto loans isn’t usually tax-deductible, but box truck loan interest can be if the truck is used for business. Personal vehicles only need standard insurance, while box trucks require more comprehensive coverage to account for higher usage and business risks.

EXPLORING BOX TRUCK FINANCING OPTIONS

TRADITIONAL BANK LOANS

Traditional bank loans work well for established businesses with strong credit. These loans offer competitive rates and reliable terms but require substantial documentation, making them ideal for companies with proven financial stability.

EQUIPMENT FINANCING

With equipment financing, the box truck itself serves as collateral, making it easier for businesses with lower credit scores to qualify. This is a popular choice for newer or smaller businesses needing essential vehicles without high credit demands.

LEASING OPTIONS

Box truck leasing is a flexible route for companies in need of regular vehicle upgrades. Operating leases are great for using newer trucks without ownership, while finance leases offer the option to buy the truck at the lease’s end.

ALTERNATIVE FINANCING SOLUTIONS

For businesses with credit challenges, options like bad credit box truck financing or low down payment plans are available. Specialized truck lenders often simplify approval, catering to businesses facing unique industry demands.

CREDIT UNIONS AND ONLINE LENDERS

Credit unions provide competitive rates and personalized service for members, while online lenders offer a fast, straightforward application process—ideal for small businesses needing quick funding. These box truck loan options make financing accessible for diverse business needs.

KEY REQUIREMENTS FOR SECURING BOX TRUCK FINANCING

CREDIT SCORE

Your credit score is crucial when seeking financing for a box truck, whether it’s new or used. A higher credit score can get you better interest rates and terms. Applying to multiple companies at once can hurt your credit score because each application results in a hard inquiry.

DOWN PAYMENT

Most lenders will ask for a down payment, usually between 10-20% of the truck’s price. Putting more money down can lower your monthly payments and reduce the total interest you’ll pay over the life of the loan, so it’s a good strategy if you can manage it.

COLLATERAL

Typically, the box truck itself acts as collateral for the loan. This means that if you can’t make your payments, the lender has the right to take the truck back. In situations of low down payment truck financing, providing additional collateral requirements, like cash reserves or existing assets, can enhance your application.

DOCUMENTATION

Lenders will ask for some paperwork to understand your business’s financial health. You’ll need to provide recent financial statements, proof of income, and a business plan to show that you can manage the loan payments and that your business is stable.

STEPS TO SECURE THE BEST BOX TRUCK FINANCING

EVALUATE YOUR FINANCIAL POSITION

First and foremost, evaluate your financial position. Take the time to review your credit score, cash flow, and overall loan affordability.

GATHER THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTATION

Before you apply for commercial truck financing, ensure you have all relevant documents readily available. This includes your business information, financial statements, personal details if required, and specific information about the truck you wish to purchase.

RESEARCH LENDERS

After you must have compiled the necessary documents, next is to research lenders extensively. Investigate various financing options available to you, such as banks, specialized truck lenders, and credit unions. Each lender may offer different terms and rates, making it essential to compare your choices thoroughly. A financing company like Inspired Funding simplifies the application process for you such that you get the right funding without stress.

REVIEW AND COMPARE OFFERS

Upon receiving approval, take your time to review and compare the offers carefully. Pay close attention to critical details such as the interest rate, flexible loan terms, and any associated fees. Ensuring that the offer aligns with your budget is vital before signing any agreements.

NEGOTIATE TERMS

Finally, don’t hesitate to negotiate the terms of your financing. Many lenders are open to discussions regarding down payments, interest rates, and monthly payment schedules. Engaging in negotiations can often lead to more favorable financing conditions, ultimately benefiting your financial situation.

CHALLENGES FREQUENTLY ENCOUNTERED WITH BOX TRUCK FINANCING

LOW CREDIT SCORE

Having a low credit score may restrict your borrowing options since lenders usually look for good credit scores to offer favorable terms, on loans or credit cards. Those with low credit might face interest rates or struggle with loan applications being denied. While there’s the option of bad credit box truck financing, paying off debts and gradually building up your credit can boost your chances of getting approved for opportunities in the future.

DOWN PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS

A lot of lenders ask for an initial payment or collateral requirements which, as a small business owner, can be quite a challenge to overcome. To cut down on expenses, businesses can look for financing plans that require less money upfront or check out loan choices where the truck is used as security. Leasing might also mean having to pay less at the beginning compared to buying.

STRICT LOAN TERMS FOR NEW BUSINESSES

New businesses that have operated for less than two years may encounter stringent loan conditions from lenders since they perceive newer ventures as riskier propositions. Despite the hurdles faced by startups, in securing loans with terms they could enhance their chances of approval by demonstrating cash flow, developing a well-structured business blueprint, or providing extra collateral.

EXPLORING LOAN TYPES

Deciding whether to lease or buy a box truck is a critical choice, as each option significantly affects your financial situation and related expenses. Box truck leasing can provide lower monthly payments, which may ease immediate cash flow concerns. Conversely, buying allows you to establish ownership of the asset, building equity over time.

WHY CHOOSE INSPIRED FUNDING FOR BOX TRUCK FINANCING?

If you’re just starting your business or looking for fleet expansion, finding the right financing partner is crucial. Inspired Funding specializes in box truck financing tailored to your needs. Our team is committed to making your buying experience as straightforward as possible, offering flexible terms and competitive rates.

Inspired Funding creates custom programs that fit your business requirements and processes applications quickly with flexible loan terms and payment options. We work with various credit histories, supporting both new startups and established businesses. Our financing experts will help you navigate the paperwork seamlessly, ensuring you get the equipment you need without any stress or delays so you can concentrate on running your business successfully.

Explore Inspired Funding’s box truck financing options today and drive your business forward with the right financial support!

From construction sites to food industries, vocational trucks are the backbone of countless industries. The stats back this claim up: Trucking supports 8.4 million jobs. With no decline in sight for the truck industry, the right vocational truck can be the difference between a good investment and a great one.

In this article, we will explore the most popular vocational trucks and their uses so that you can make the right choice.

WHAT ARE VOCATIONAL TRUCKS?

A vocational truck is a vehicle designed for specific tasks or work. They are built on a truck chassis and come in either self-propelled or trailer-mounted configurations.

Unlike the general semi-trucks that are built to transport cargo over long distances, vocational trucks are built to serve particular functions in specific industries. The fields and industries where vocational trucks are highly utilized include but are not limited to:

• Construction
• Waste management
• Food and beverages
• Service and utility
• Emergency services, eg fire and rescue
• Towing

Additionally, vocational trucks are typically used within a limited area, such as a city or job site, and are equipped with features that enhance their ability to perform specific jobs.

COMMON VOCATIONAL TRUCKS

All vocational trucks are built differently and it is important you know that. The type of vocational truck you buy is largely based on what you want to use it for. Let’s explore some common vocational trucks:

1. DUMP TRUCKS

If you have ever been to a construction site, chances are high that you have seen a dump truck lying around somewhere. Dump trucks are used to haul loose materials like gravel, sand, and dirt. They are also popular during winter periods to clear snow. They come in different sizes depending on the kind of project you are handling.

2. CARGO VANS

Popular in the logistics industry for transporting goods, equipment, catering, and maintenance, cargo vans come with ample storage space. They also have secure storage compartments and shelves which make them an ideal choice for local deliveries.

3. GARBAGE TRUCKS

Just like the name suggests, garbage trucks are built for one purpose–collecting waste. They transport waste for disposal or recycling and are built to handle heavy loads.

Garbage trucks have a hydraulic system that helps to lift, compress, and store waste. Municipalities and private waste management companies rely on these trucks to keep cities clean and efficiently manage waste.

4. BUCKET TRUCKS

Equipped with an extendable boom arm, bucket trucks lift workers to heights so that they can perform elevated tasks safely. With a bucket truck, maintenance workers can perform tasks like repairing streetlights or powerlines, or trim tall trees.

5. FIRE TRUCKS

Fire trucks are emergency response vehicles used to assist firefighters during fire emergencies or rescue operations. They are built with tools like ladders, hoses, and tanks to aid in extinguishing fires.

6. TOW TRUCKS

These are vehicles commonly used by towing companies and roadside assistance to safely transport vehicles in different situations such as vehicle breakdowns or accidents. Tow trucks are versatile and can handle a range of vehicles, from small cars to larger trucks, depending on the type.

7. CONCRETE TRUCKS

Also known as cement mixers, concrete trucks are used in construction for mixing cement. These trucks come in different sizes, but have a rotating drum that mixes concrete while in motion, ensuring that it arrives at the site in the right consistency and ready to pour.

8. FLATBED TRUCKS 

Flatbed trucks have an open, flat platform used for transporting large or oversized equipment or construction materials that would not fit in regular enclosed trucks. They have no sides or roof, allowing for easy loading and offloading of machinery.

9. REFRIGERATED TRUCKS

Refrigerated trucks are also called reefer trucks and are used to transport perishable goods. They have an inbuilt refrigeration system which helps them maintain specific temperatures during the period of use. Industries that use reefers include food, pharmaceutical, chemical, and floral.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT VOCATIONAL TRUCK WITH INSPIRED FUNDING

One of the most common questions for newcomers to the trucking industry is: Which truck should I buy? Choosing the right vocational truck depends on the industry you want to serve. For example, if logistics and transportation are your goals, a cargo van might be the perfect fit. However, if waste management is your target, then a garbage truck would be ideal.  It is all about understanding the basic uses of these trucks and how they fit into your business and goals.

Beyond choosing the right truck is the need to pick the right financing partner. Trucks are a great investment. Paying outright for a vocational truck can eat deep into your pocket, and we don’t even recommend that. At Inspired Funding, our goal is to help you secure the best financing plan for you, whether you are buying a commercial truck, semi-truck, or dump truck. Our terms are flexible and the application process is seamless, ensuring that you get your truck business in motion with ease and confidence.

If you own a trucking business and are looking for a steady income stream, Amazon Relay could be just what you need.

Just like Doordash and Uber Eats connect independent drivers to restaurants that need delivery services, Amazon Relay is paving the way for truck drivers by providing access to available loads. As a leading e-commerce business, Amazon handles more deliveries daily than they can manage. The Relay app allows truck and freight companies take on these deliveries while earning a profit.

So, if you’re looking to boost your income with short-term contracts, Amazon Relay could be a great option. One big advantage is that with Amazon Relay, you’ll always have job opportunities available. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Amazon Relay to help set you up for success.

WHAT IS AMAZON RELAY?

Amazon Relay is a program offered by Amazon that extends its delivery capabilities by partnering with freight companies and truck owners. According to research, Amazon ships over 1.6 million packages daily and its logistics division is worth $310 billion. Handling such volumes of deliveries everyday with just 40,000 trucks led to the creation of the Relay extension. 

Through Amazon Relay, truck owners can access a steady stream of delivery jobs, which can be an great source of income for truckers seeking new opportunities. In a nutshell, Amazon outsources delivery via an app called Amazon Relay. By registering and meeting the basic requirements, truck owners have access to delivery jobs that they can take daily and make more cash. 

Additionally, if you own a fleet of trucks and have multiple drivers, the app enables you to accept loads and assign them to designated drivers, all within the app. This allows you to track your movements, assess your performance, and control your operations. 

HOW DOES AMAZON RELAY WORK?

This common question truckers often ask is “How does Amazon Relay work?” Simply put, Amazon Relay is an app and it works well on your mobile phone. Best of all, it’s free to use.

The first step is to download the app and register. Once you meet the basic requirements and are good to go, you can get on the Amazon Load Board where work (load) is posted. 

This dashboard gives you access to all the loading offers available at the moment, allowing you to book the offers suited to your business. It can help you ensure a consistent flow of income by allowing you to book weeks’ worth of deliveries and mark them off as you complete them.

Also, if you have more deliveries than you can handle, you can post them on your portal and connect with other truck owners to outsource the extra loads. 

BENEFITS OF AMAZON RELAY

As a truck owner, few things are more satisfying than having a regular work schedule with reliable earning potential. This is where Amazon Relay comes in, but that is not all. More benefits can make Amazon Relay a perfect choice for your trucking business. 

Let’s consider them here.

1. Advanced app features: The Amazon Relay app has an easy-to-navigate app that enables you to do multiple things. Features include real-time alerts, work scheduling, route planning, and navigation among others which makes work seamless.
2. Quick payment: Amazon Relay has a specific payout day every week, which helps you avoid issues such as delayed payments. Payout day is Friday for every work schedule within Sunday to Saturday. Also, you get to know the prices for each job you take so you know the amount you are getting at the end of the week.
3. Regular job demand: As one of the leading e-commerce businesses in the world, you can be guaranteed that you will never run out of loads. While you may not always find the kind you want and at the best price, there are enough opportunities for you to earn. 
4. No minimum load requirements: While other platforms may require you to handle a specific load amount, Amazon operates differently. The amount of load you take weekly is totally up to you. 
5. Growth potential: With no limit on available loads and how many jobs you can take on, Amazon Relay can be a great option for you if you are looking to expand your operations and boost your income. 
6. Rewards and discounts: Truckers can enjoy discounts and rewards on fuel, maintenance, insurance, and others when they use the app. 
7. Operational support: Carriers have access to 24/7 operational support in case of emergencies and inquiries. 

AMAZON RELAY REQUIREMENTS

To get on the Amazon Relay program, there are basic truck and insurance requirements that you must meet. We will consider both requirements in this section:

For truck:

1. An active DOT number and a valid MC number
2. A carrier entity type authorized for property and hire
3. A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rating of Satisfactory, None or Not rated
4. Behavior analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASIC) scores:

• Unsafe driving below 60%
• HOS compliance below 60%
• Vehicle maintenance below 75%
• Controlled substances/Alcohol below 75%

For insurance:

1. Commercial General Liability Insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate
2. Cargo Insurance Coverage of  $100,000
3. Auto Liability Insurance from $1,000,000 per occurrence and a trailer replacement coverage of $50,000
4. Employer Liability Insurance of $100,000 per occurrence
5. Workers’ compensation insurance in all jurisdictions where you operate liability 

HOW TO APPLY FOR AMAZON RELAY

Getting started on Amazon Relay is a combination of following the basic process and submitting the right documents. 

Download the Amazon Relay App: You can download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store.

Create an account: After installing the app, go ahead to create your account by filling in the necessary details. 

Upload your information: Once your account is set up and ready to go, you have to upload the necessary information and documentation

Note: According to the Amazon Relay official website, approval or rejection of an application takes 1-3 weeks with most delays caused by insurance validation. We urge you to get all data ready before application for faster approval times. Once your application is complete and approved, you can start scheduling jobs and earn. 

USING AMAZON RELAY WITH INSPIRED FUNDING

Amazon Relay is a fantastic way to keep your business active and boost your credibility. It helps you stay busy with jobs and brings in a profitable check every week. But using the platform is even better when you don’t have to worry about high truck payments or penalties for missed loads.

That’s where Inspired Funding comes in. We are your trusted financial partner to help you expand your fleet or start your journey in the trucking business. With Inspired Funding, you’ll get the best deals on down payments and interest rates, all through a smooth and easy application process. It’s the peace of mind you need to keep building your business without the financial stress.

Long before cell phones and social media, CB (Citizen Band) radio was the communication tool of choice among truckers. Rather than communicating in full sentences, truckers mainly relied on CB 10 codes which allowed them to pass vital messages quickly and save airtime. With CB radio talk, you could effectively say more in little time.

You could ask a fellow trucker to call for an ambulance, warn of danger, or just pass relevant updates via CB radio codes. And even though we now have modern technology, the CB radio still exists. Learning these codes can help you in a lot of ways. It will help you communicate better with your colleagues, bond with them, and help you avoid confusion whenever you hear others using them.

So, let’s travel back to the 1900s, when these codes first emerged, and get familiar with some of the most popular ones.

CBD RADIO CODES FROM 10-1 TO 10-200

10-1: Receiving Poorly or I can’t hear you

10-2: Receiving well or I can hear you

10-3: Stop transmitting (pipe down)

10-4: Message received

10-5: Relay message (Let others know)

10-6: Busy, stand by

10-7: Out of service (out of range)

10-8: In service (active)

10-9: Repeat Message (Go over that again)

10-10: Transmission completed

10-11: Talking too rapidly (Slow down)

10-12: Visitors present (Outside parties present)

10-13: Advise weather/road conditions

10-16: Make pick up at (Location)

10-17: Urgent Business (High-priority matter/ Time-sensitive issue)

10-18: Anything for us? (Any news?)

10-19: Nothing for you, return to base (No updates for you, head back to base)

10-20: Your current location

10-21: Call by telephone

10-22: Report in person to…

10-23: Stand by

10-24: Completed last assignment

10-25: Can you contact [person’s name]

10-26: Disregard Last Information/Cancel Last Message

10-27: I’m moving to channel … [channel number] (When a trucker sets to leave their current location)

10-28: Identify your station

10-29: Time is up for contact

10-30: Does not conform to FCC Rules

10-32: I will give you a radio check

10-33: Emergency traffic at this station (gives prominence to emergency messages)

10-34: Trouble at this station, help needed (alerts others to a problem)

10-35: Confidential information

10-36: Need correct time

10-37: Wrecker needed at [location]

10-38: Ambulance needed at [location]

10-39: Your message delivered

10-41: Please tune to channel [channel #]

10-42: Traffic accident at [location]

10-43: Traffic jam

10-44: I have a message for you

10-45: All units within range please report

10-50: Break channel

10-60: What is the next message number?

10-62: Unable to copy, please use phone

10-65: Awaiting your next message or assignment

10-67: All units comply

10-70: Fire at [location]

10-71: Proceed with transmission in sequence

10-73: Speed trap

10-75: You are causing interference

10-77: Negative contact

10-84: My telephone number is

10-85: My address is

10-91: Talk closer to the mike

10-92: Your transmitter is out of adjustment

10-93: Check my frequency on this channel

10-94: Please give me a long count (used when a trucker is interested in the details of a story)

10-95: Transmit dead carrier for 5 seconds

10-99: Mission completed; all units secure

10-100: Bathroom break

10-200: Police needed at [location]

CONCLUSION

Using CB radio 10 codes is a way truckers keep their heritage alive. As a new trucker, learning all the codes at once might feel overwhelming, but with daily practice, you’ll soon master them and communicate effortlessly.

You should also check our guide on other trucker lingo and slang to widen your trucking knowledge.

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

Hitting the road every day and bringing home the cash requires that you have a partner who handles your financing problem. From securing a reliable truck to finding the best deals on down payments, interest rates, and loan terms, Inspired Funding has you covered.

Having worked with a large number of clients, we confidently understand the ins and outs of commercial truck financing and we can help you make the best choice. Our funding application process is quick and flexible, with a high success rate. Let our team handle your financing so you can focus on growing your business.

There are a lot of interesting things about being a truck driver, and one of them is the trucker lingo and slang. Truck drivers communicate via CB radio, and without knowing these terms, it can be hard to keep up with what they’re saying. 

If you’re new to the trucking business, or just an enthusiast looking to learn new things, we have compiled all the trucker lingo you need to know!

A-Z TRUCKER LINGO

Alabama chrome – duct tape. 

All locked up – Means the weigh station has been closed.

Alligator – This is a piece of a blown tire on the road that can cause accidents. It resembles an alligator lying on the pavement. A small piece of tire is referred to as a “baby alligator,” while multiple pieces are called “alligator bait.” It can also simply be referred to as a “gator.”

Anteater – The Kenworth T600, named because of its sloped hood. It is also known as an aardvark and It is one of the first trucks that came with an aerodynamic design. 

Back door – Something behind you.

Back it down – Slow down.

Backed out of it – Unable to maintain speed, leading to a downshift. Often used when a driver loses momentum and has to let up off the accelerator. 

Back row: The last rows of parking in a truck stop.

Bambi – A deer.

Base station or unit – A powerful CB radio set in a stationary location.

Bear – A law enforcement officer at any level, but usually a State Trooper, Highway Patrol.

Baby bear – a rookie law enforcement officer

Bear bait – A speeding vehicle, usually a four-wheeler, which can be used to protect the other speeding vehicles behind it.

Bear bite – A speeding ticket.

Bear den or bear cave – Law enforcement headquarters, station.

Bear in the air – A law enforcement aircraft that can monitor the traffic and speeds below.

Bear in the bushes – Law enforcement (at any level) is hiding somewhere, probably with a radar gun aimed at traffic. 

Billy Big Rigger – Another term for “supertrucker” who brags about himself, or his big, fast, shiny truck.

Bingo cards – These are cards used to hold stamps from each state a motor carrier would operate in. They are no longer used and have been replaced by the Single State Registration System (SSRS).

Bedbugger – A household moving company or the household mover himself.

Belly Dumper – A trailer with a bottom dump

Big R – A Roadway truck.

Big road – The Interstate, or any big highway.

Big truck – An 18-wheeler or tractor-trailer. “Come on over, big truck”.

Bird dog – A radar detector.

Big word – Closed, when referring to weigh stations. Small word, on the other hand, means open.

Black eye – A headlight out. 

Blew my doors off – Passed at a high speed

Bobtail – Driving the tractor only, without the trailer attached.

Boogie – The top gear (the highest gear) of the transmission.

Boulevard – The Interstate.

Brake check – The traffic tie-up ahead, requiring immediate slowing down or stopping.

Break – Saying “break-number” is the proper way to gain access to the channel and begin talking when a radio is breaking up.

Breaking up – Signal is weak or fading. 

Brush your teeth and comb your hair – Be on you best driving behavious because a law enforcement officer is shooting vehicles with a radar gun and looking for who to give tickets. . 

Bubba – What you call another driver, often in a kidding way.

Bulldog – A Mack truck.

Bullfrog – An ABF truck.

Bull hauler – A livestock hauler.

Bumper sticker – A vehicle that’s tailgating. Also called a “hitchhiker“.

Bundled out – Heavily loaded, or to maximum capacity. 

Bushels – Weight of load in 1000’s (i.e. 43 bushels = 43,000 pounds)

Buster Brown – A UPS truck or driver. 

Cabbage – A steep mountain grade in Oregon. 

Cabover – Abbreviated term for Cab-Over-the Engine (COE) type of tractor. It is no longer commonly used in the US.

Cash register – A tollbooth. 

CB Rambo – Referring to a wannabe tough guy on the CB Radio

Checking ground pressure – The weigh station is open, and they’re running trucks across the scales. 

Cheese Wagon – A yellow schoolbus

Chicken coop – A weigh station, often called just a “coop”. 

Chicken lights – Extra lights or marker on a truck and trailer. 

Chicken hauler or truck – A big, fancy truck; a large, conventional tractor with a lot of lights and chrome. Also used to refer to a truck that hauls live chickens. 

Choke-n-Puke – A greasy spoon restaurant

City kitty – A local law enforcement officer

Coal bucket – A dump trailer

Come-a-part engine – Cummins engine.

Come back – An invitation for the other driver to talk, often used when you couldn’t hear the last transmission.

Come on – Telling another driver that you hear him calling you, and to go ahead and talk. 

Comedian – The median strip in between opposite lanes of traffic. 

Comic book – The logbook. 

Commercial company – A prostitute. 

Container – An overseas container; intermodal transportation. 

Convoy – A group of trucks traveling together. 

Copy – Transmission acknowledged, agreed with, or understood, as in “copy that, driver”. 

Cornflake – Consolidated Freightways truck. 

County Mountie – County police, usually a sheriff’s deputy. 

Covered wagon – Flatbed type of trailer, with sidewalls, and a tarpulin. 

Crackerhead – A derogatory term; insult. 

Crotch rocket – A motorcycle built for speed; not a Harley-Davidson. 

Curtain Sider – Trailer similar to a box trailer except that the sides are movable curtains.

Deadhead – Pulling an empty trailer. 

Destruction – Road construction. 

Diesel car – A semi-tractor. 

Diesel cop – A DOT, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officer. 

Dispatcher Brains – Light or empty load

Donkey – Behind you. “A bear is on your donkey”. 

Do what? – I didn’t hear or understand you. 

Double nickel – 55 mph, considered the optimal balance between speed and fuel efficiency. 

Doubles – A set of double trailers. 

Drawing lines – Completing your logbook 

Driver – What drivers call other drivers on the CB, especially if their CB handle is not known. 

Driving award – A speeding ticket. 

Downstroke – Driving downwards, downhill, on a decline. 

Dragon wagon – A tow truck. 

Dragonfly – A truck with no power, especially going uphill. 

Dry box – An unrefrigerated freight trailer. Also called a dry van.

Evil Knievel – A law enforcement officer on a motorcycle. 

Eyeball – To see something. 

Feeding the bears – Paying a ticket or citation. 

Fingerprint – To unload a trailer by yourself. 

Flip-flop – A U-turn, or a return trip. 

Flying Hook – Pilot Flying J Truck Stop

FM – An AM-FM radio. 

Four-letter word – Open; referring to weigh stations being open or closed. 

Fox in the hen house – Unmarked police vehicle

Free Truck Wash – Rain

Freight shaker – A Freightliner truck. 

Front door – In front of you. 

Full-grown bear – State Trooper, or Highway Patrol. 

Garbage hauler – Produce haulers or produce load.

Gear Jammer – A driver who speeds up and slows down with great frequency. 

General mess of crap – A GMC truck 

Georgia overdrive – Putting the transmission into neutral on a downgrade, to go extremely fast. Not recommended.

Go-go juice – Diesel fuel. 

Good buddy – Used to be the thing to say: “10-4, good buddy”. Not anymore, as this is now calling someone a homosexual. 

Good neighbor – To show appreciation to another driver. For example, “thank you, good neighbor”. 

Got my nightgown on – I’m in the sleeper, and ready to go to sleep. 

Go to company – Telling another driver from your company to go to the designated company CB channel. Drivers do this so that they can talk about company business or personal matters without monopolizing channel 19. 

Go to the Harley – Turn your CB to channel 1. 

Got your ears on? – Are you listening? 

Gouge on it – Go fast, put the throttle to the floor, step on it, etc. 

Granny lane – The right, slower lane on a multi-lane highway, or the Interstate. 

Greasy – Icy, or slippery. 

Greasy side up – A vehicle that’s flipped over. 

Greasy spoon – A cheap restaurant.

Green Stamps – Money. 

Grossed out – Your gross vehicle weight is at maximum capacity; commonly 80,000 pounds. 

Ground Clouds – Fog

Ground pressure – The weight of your truck, as in “you are testing your ground pressure”. 

Gumball machine – The lights on top of a patrol car. 

Hammer down – Go fast, step on it. 

Hammer lane – The left, passing lane of traffic. 

Hand/Han – Referring to another driver. Gotten from the term farmhand, meaning helper, or fellow worker. 

Handle (CB handle) – Nicknames that are used to identify the speaker, in place of an actual name, encouraged by the FCC.. 

Happy happy – Happy New Year; “Have a happy happy, driver”. 

Happy hooker – A tow truck hauling a truck.

Harvey Wallbanger – A driver who is driving recklessly or appears to be drunk

Having “shutter trouble” – Having trouble keeping awake. 

Ho Chi Minh Trail – Refers to California Highway 152, known for its abundance of accidents. 

Hole in the wall – Mountain tunnel entrance

Holler – Call me on the radio, as in “Give me a holler”. 

Home 20 – A driver’s home location. 

Hood – A conventional tractor, as opposed to a cab-over. 

How ’bout – When you’re trying to contact other drivers, you can say “how ’bout you, eastbound?”

Hundred dollar lane/High dollar lane – Prohibited lane for trucks in the far left lane of heavily populated areas. Violations come with a heavy fine. 

In my back pocket – Behind you or a place you’ve passed. 

In the big hole – The top gear of the transmission. 

Jackpot – The same as a gumball machine, or a patrol car’s lights. 

Jet Pilot – A speeding vehicle

Juice Box – A tanker hauling perishable liquids preferably juice

Key down – When you talk over somebody who’s trying to transmit. A bigger, more powerful radio can easily drown out a lesser one. 

Key up – Pushing the transmit button on the CB Mike. 

Kiddy Car – A school bus

K-whopper – A Kenworth tractor, or just KW. 

Kojak with a Kodak – Law enforcement using a radar gun. 

Landline – A stationary telephone; not a cellular phone.

Large car – A conventional tractor, often with a big sleeper, lots of chrome and lights.

Left Coast – The West Coast. 

Local information – A driver asks for local information when he needs directions in an area he’s unfamiliar with. 

Local-yokel – A county, city, or small-town officer. 

Lollipop – The small reflector or marker poles on the sides of the highway. 

Lot lizard – A prostitute that solicits truck-to-truck in a truck stop or rest area. 

Lumper – Casual labor that loads or unloads your trailer and requires payment in cash. 

Mama-bear – Refers to a female law enforcement officer. 

Male buffalo – A male prostitute. 

Mash your motor – Go fast, step on it. Same as gouge on it and hammer down. 

Meat wagon – An ambulance. 

Merry merry – Merry Christmas. 

Motion lotion – Diesel fuel. 

Moving on – Heading down the road. 

Mud duck – A weak radio signal. 

Negatory – Negative or no. 

On the side – On standby

Ovalhead – Peterbilt owner; Fan side –

Parking lot – An auto transporter, often used when the trailer is empty. 

Pay the water bill – Taking a bathroom break. 

Pickle park – A rest area frequented by lot lizards (prostitutes). 

Pete – Peterbilt Truck

Pigtail – The electrical connection from the tractor to the trailer. 

Plain wrapper – An unmarked law enforcement vehicle. 

Plenty of protection – Means there are plenty of police in the area. It is also used to tell drivers to go ahead and step on it because there are speeding four-wheelers ahead blocking or covering for them. 

Pogo stick – A metal, flexible support located on the tractor catwalk, holding up the connections to the trailer. 

Pole Cat – Skunk

Power up – Go faster or speed up. 

Preeshaydit – Appreciate it; thank you.

Pumpkin – A Schneider truck, because of its orange color. 

Radio – A CB radio. 

Radio check – How’s my radio doing? Is it transmitting and getting out there?

Rambo – Someone who talks big on the radio, especially when they’re in a place where no one else can find them. 

Ratchet jaw – Someone who monopolizes the radio, talking constantly and not giving anyone else a chance to speak.

Reading the mail – Just tuning in to the radio and listening.

Reefer – Typically a refrigerated van trailer, but sometimes it just means the reefer unit itself.

Rest-a-ree-a – Rest area. 

Road pizza – Roadkill on the side of the road. 

Rockin’ chair – A truck that’s sandwiched between two other trucks.

Roger – Yes; affirmative. 

Roger beep – An audible beep that signals when someone has released the mic and finished their transmission. This feature is found on only a small percentage of radios. 

Roller skate – Any small car. 

Rooster cruiser – A big, flashy truck; a large conventional tractor decked out with plenty chrome and lights.

Runnin’ you across – The weigh station is open, and they’re likely weighing trucks quickly. 

Salt shaker – The snowplows that spread salt or sand on the highways during winter. 

Sandbagging – Listening to the radio without speaking, also known as “reading the mail.”

Sandbox – A runaway ramp, often filled with sand to help stop vehicles. 

Schneider eggs – The orange cones in construction areas. 

Seat cover – A term sometimes used to refer to drivers or passengers of cars (four-wheelers).

Sesame Street – Channel 19 on the CB radio, often called that because it’s where everyone “hangs out.”. 

Shaky – California in general, sometimes Los Angeles, and, occasionally, San Francisco. 

Shiny side up – Your vehicle hasn’t rolled over after an accident. “Keep the shiny side up” is a way to wish someone a safe trip. 

Shooting you in the back – You’re being shot with a radar gun as your vehicle passes a law enforcement vehicle. 

Short short – A short amount of time. 

Shutdown – Put out of service by the DOT because of some violation. 

Sleeper Creeper – A prostitute; same as a lot lizard. 

Skateboard – A flatbed, or flatbed trailer. 

Skins – Tires. 

Smokin’ scooter – A law enforcement officer on a motorcycle. 

Smokin’ the brakes – The trailer brakes are overheating and smoking from excessive use on a steep downhill grade.

Smokey or Smokey Bear – A law enforcement officer, usually highway patrol. 

Split – A junction, where the road goes in separate directions. 

Spy in the sky – A law enforcement aircraft, same as a “bear in the air”. 

Stagecoach – A tour bus. 

Stand on it – Step on it, go faster. 

Swinging – Carrying a load of swinging meat. 

Taking pictures – Law enforcement using a radar gun. 

Thermos bottle – A tanker trailer. 

Through the woods – Leaving the Interstate to travel secondary roads. 

Throwin’ iron – To put on snow tire chains. 

Too many eggs in the basket – Overweight load or gross weight. 

Toothpicks – A load of lumber. 

Travel agent – The dispatcher, or sometimes a broker. 

Triple digits – Over 100 mph. 

VW – A Volvo-White tractor. 

Wagon – Some drivers refer to their trailer as a wagon. 

Walked on you – Drowned out your transmission by keying up at the same time. 

Wally world – Wal-Mart (the store or the distribution center), or a Wal-Mart truck. 

West Coast turnarounds – Uppers refer to speed or Benzedrine pills, which some drivers might use to travel from the East Coast to the West Coast and back without needing to sleep. This practice is obviously illegal.

Wiggle wagons – A set of double or triple trailers. 

Yard – A company terminal, drop a lot, etc.

Yardstick – A mile marker on the highway. 

0-4 – OK, message received. Some drivers just say “10.”

4-wheeler – Any passenger vehicle; cars or pickups.

18-wheeler – Any tractor-trailer.

42 – Yes, or OK.

85th Street – Interstate 85.

95th Street – Interstate 95.

NAMES OF CITIES

Aside from the slang terms listed above, truckers also have a unique way of referring to different cities. Here’s a rundown, so you’re never left wondering when you hear them on the road.

Air Capital – Wichita, Kansas

Alamo City – San Antonio, Texas

A-Town – Atlanta, Georgia

Armadillo – Amarillo, Texas

Astrodome – Houston, Texas

Bean-Town – Boston, Massachusetts

Beer City – Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Beer Town – Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Big A – Atlanta, Georgia

Big Apple – New York

Big D – Dallas, Texas

Big O – Omaha, Nebraska

Bikini – Miami, Florida

Bright Lights – Kansas City, Kansas

Bull City – Durham, North Carolina

B Town – Birmingham, Alabama

Capital City – Raleigh, North Carolina

CB Town – Council Bluffs, Iowa

Charm City – Baltimore, Maryland

Choo-Choo – Chattanooga, Tennessee

Cigar City – Tampa, Florida

Circle City – Indianapolis, Indiana

Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota

Cow Town – Calgary, Alberta

Derby City – Louisville, Kentucky

Dirty – Cleveland, Ohio

Dome – Houston, Texas

Flag or Flagpole – Flagstaff, Arizona

Gateway – St. Louis, Missouri

Gold City – Goldsboro, North Carolina

Guitar – Nashville, Tennessee

Hog Town – Toronto, Ontario

Hotlanta – Atlanta, Georgia

Indy 500 – Indianapolis, Indiana

Irish – South Bend, Indiana

K-Town – Knoxville, Tennessee

Lost Wages – Las Vegas, Nevada

Mardi Gras – New Orleans, Louisiana

Mile High – Denver, Colorado

Motor City – Detroit, Michigan

Music City – Nashville, Tennessee

Nickel – Buffalo, New York

Okie City – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Peg – Winnipeg, Manitoba

Philly – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Queen City – Charlotte, North Carolina

Rock City – Little Rock, Arkansas

Rubber – Akron, Ohio

Sack of Tomatoes – Sacramento, California

Shaky City – Los Angeles, California

Shaky-Town – Los Angeles, California

Steel City or Town – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Swamp – Montreal, Quebec

Watermelon 500 – Atlanta, Georgia

Windy City – Chicago, Illinois

CLOSING THE TAILGATE

This compilation contains decades-old slang that truckers have used to share their stories and adventures as they travel. Now that you know the lingo, don’t forget to give a fellow trucker a friendly “10-4” or a “keep the shiny side up.”

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

If you’re looking for the best financing for your truck business, Inspired Funding is here for you. With tailored financing plans and a range of flexible options, we make it easy for you to get the truck you need and make paying for it a breeze.

Inspired Funding has been helping businesses finance various commercial vehicles, including semi-trucks, cargo vans, dump trucks, and other essential heavy equipment to keep your business moving. We offer competitive interest rates and affordable down payments to fit your budget.

Worried about credit? No problem! We can help you navigate credit score challenges by providing financing solutions designed to get you on the road faster.

Ready to finance a bulldog or a dragon wagon? Give us a call today to get started!

Your need for a cargo van feels urgent, but the price tag might be holding you back. Many business owners face rejection when applying for cargo van financing, leaving them stuck between limited delivery capacity and business growth.

Here’s the good news: getting approved for cargo van financing doesn’t have to stop your progress. A solid preparation strategy can boost your chances of securing the funding you need. These seven proven tips will help put you in the driver’s seat of your next cargo van.

1. CLEAN UP YOUR CREDIT SCORE BEFORE APPLYING

A strong credit score leads to better financing terms. Start by pulling your credit report from all three major bureaus – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Request a free copy and check every entry carefully. You should also look for any errors or outdated information that might hurt your score.

Paying down existing debt can quickly improve your score. Focus on reducing credit card balances below 30% of their limits. This credit utilization ratio greatly affects your score. Should you have multiple cards, start with the highest-interest debt first. Making extra payments twice a month can help lower your reported balance faster.

Setting up automatic payments for all your bills prevents accidental late payments. Each on-time payment strengthens your credit report. A credit monitoring service helps track changes and sends alerts about potential issues, letting you address problems quickly.

Give yourself three months of steady payment history before applying for van financing. During this period, avoid opening new credit accounts or making large purchases on credit. These activities can temporarily lower your score and raise red flags with lenders.

Getting removed from old credit cards where you were an authorized user but no longer use the account helps protect your score. This stops any negative actions on those accounts from affecting your standing.

2. GATHER STRONG PROOF OF INCOME

Lenders need solid evidence of your ability to make payments. Start collecting financial documents early since gathering everything requires time. You’ll need bank statements, profit and loss statements, tax returns from the past two years, and current contracts or service agreements that prove steady income.

Your bank statements should reveal healthy cash flow patterns. Should your business have seasonal changes, explain any low-income periods. Be sure to include statements from both business and personal accounts if you’re a sole proprietor.

Create detailed profit and loss statements breaking down revenue streams and expenses. Show growth trends and cost-saving steps you’ve taken. Also add notes explaining any unusual expenses or one-time costs that won’t happen again.

Put together a cash flow forecast showing how the new van will boost revenue. Use real numbers from your current operations to demonstrate expanded capacity and efficiency. Adding potential fuel savings from upgrading to a newer vehicle strengthens your case.

• Calculate monthly revenue increases from serving more customers
• Estimate time saved on deliveries with a more reliable vehicle
• Show reduced maintenance costs compared to older vehicles

3. SAVE FOR A LARGER DOWN PAYMENT

Many financing options advertise low down payments, yet offering more upfront money makes a notable difference. A larger down payment cuts the lender’s risk and often leads to better interest rates. Setting up a separate savings account specifically for your van down payment makes progress tracking simple.

Break down your goal into weekly savings targets by splitting your target amount across the weeks until purchase. Looking at business expenses often reveals opportunities to redirect money to savings. Small adjustments like supplier negotiations or better delivery routes can free up surprising amounts of cash.

Setting aside 20% of the van’s purchase price shows financial discipline and gives you instant equity in the vehicle. Your monthly payments stay lower too, which helps maintain steady cash flow. Selling unnecessary equipment or inventory can add extra funds to your down payment savings.

Regular expense reviews help find areas to cut back and add to your down payment fund. Check all subscriptions and service contracts for potential savings. Each extra dollar strengthens your application and reduces long-term costs.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Semi-Truck Financing

4. RESEARCH MULTIPLE LENDER OPTIONS

Traditional banks aren’t your only choice. Credit unions often provide competitive rates and flexible terms for business vehicle loans. Their focus on member service means they might work with you even if your application needs improvement. Start looking at local credit unions that know your market well.

Some online lenders accept applications that standard banks might pass on. These lenders often look at different approval factors, paying extra attention to business success rather than personal credit history. Reading other business owners’ reviews helps you understand what to expect before applying.

Dealership financing can benefit some businesses, but examine the details closely. Attractive monthly payments sometimes hide higher interest rates. Ask about every fee, including origination charges, early payment penalties, and administrative costs. Getting quotes from several lenders helps you find the best deal.

Lenders specializing in business vehicles understand your needs better and might offer suitable terms. These specialists often grasp seasonal business patterns and industry-specific challenges. Building connections with several lenders creates backup options if your first choice doesn’t work out.

Keep organized notes about each lender’s requirements and terms for easy comparison.

5. PREPARE A STRONG BUSINESS CASE

Show exactly how the cargo van will help your business grow. Write a detailed document outlining your current operations and expansion plans. Use specific examples showing how transportation limits affect your daily work and growth potential.

Analyze your target market thoroughly with clear segments. Include population data, coverage areas, and market size calculations. Show where competitors fall short and how you’ll fill service gaps with better transportation. This research proves you understand your opportunities well.

• Market share numbers and growth opportunities
• Analysis of competitor weaknesses
• Cost-benefit breakdown for the new van

Use data from your current work to back up your plans. If you’re adding delivery areas, calculate the extra money you’ll make serving new locations. Map the specific neighborhoods or business areas you plan to reach.

Show proof of existing clients or jobs you can’t handle without more transportation. Letters or emails from potential customers waiting for expanded service make your case stronger.

6. CONSIDER A CO-SIGNER

Adding someone with excellent credit as a co-signer can greatly improve your chances. This helps newer businesses that haven’t built much credit history yet. Learn everything about co-signing responsibilities before starting.

Pick your co-signer carefully since they share equal responsibility for the loan. Look for someone with a credit score above 700 and stable income. Business partners or family members with proven money management skills often work best. Make sure they understand the shared loan commitment.

Set up proper payment tracking once approved. Good documentation helps you build credit for future loans without needing co-signers. Automatic payments help ensure on-time payments every month.

Write an agreement with your co-signer listing all responsibilities. Include payment schedules, how you’ll communicate, and what happens if payments get missed. This written plan helps keep relationships healthy throughout the loan.

A backup plan shows lenders you’re thinking ahead. Look into payment protection insurance or build emergency savings to cover slow business periods.

7. TIME YOUR APPLICATION RIGHT

Submitting your application after months of strong performance works best. Review your financial records to find your highest-earning periods. Six months of steady or increasing revenue significantly helps your approval odds. This timing approach improves your chances considerably.

Start collecting required paperwork well before applying. Make a document checklist and allow plenty of time for gathering everything. This prevents holdups during the application process. Store digital copies in an organized way for quick access.

Skip applying during your industry’s slow seasons. Check your past years’ earnings to spot your peak times. Applications during high-earning periods look better to lenders. Use these prime times to showcase your financial strength.

Plan enough time for paperwork and answering lender questions. Quick, rushed applications often get denied. Allow several weeks from start to finish.

BUILDING YOUR SUCCESS STRATEGY

Combining these tips creates the best results. Consider applying them months before buying a cargo van while you keep records of your preparation steps. A timeline helps organize your approach and ensure you stay steady through the process. Quick decisions about financing often cost more later. Present your business as a solid investment opportunity. Building lender relationships before needing money helps too.

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

At Inspired Funding, we specialize in helping businesses, both old and new to acquire the necessary equipment including cargo vans. We offer a financial plan tailored to every business’s unique situation. Credit score and business history do not have to stand in the way of getting the cargo van you desire. We’ll help you with the best cargo van financing so that you can focus on other aspects of your business.

Start your journey today.