trailers · Equipment & asset finance
Low loader finance
A low loader is bought either to sell float services or to stop paying for them. We look at which one it is and structure the finance accordingly.
What is low loader finance?
Low loader finance is funding for a heavy float trailer built to carry large machinery at low deck height, secured against the trailer. Low loaders are specialised, expensive and long-lived, and are usually bought by Australian machinery transport businesses or by civil contractors moving their own plant.
Low loaders exist because most machinery is too tall or heavy to travel on a standard deck. Dropping the deck height gains the clearance needed to carry an excavator or dozer legally, and additional axles spread the weight so the combination stays within mass limits. Configurations range from a simple 2x8 float through to multi-axle steerable units for very large plant.
For a civil contractor with several machines, owning a float removes a constant cost and gives you control over when machines move. For a transport business, the trailer is the product. Either way the asset lasts decades, so a longer finance term is usually appropriate. Because these trailers hold value so well, they are also a strong candidate for a sale and leaseback if capital is needed elsewhere.
Low loader finance at a glance
| Typical price range | $60,000 – $400,000 |
|---|---|
| Finance term | Up to 84 months |
| Useful life | About 25 years |
| New or used | Used low loaders hold value strongly and are commonly traded; new builds suit operators needing specific axle configurations, widening decks or extendable beams. |
| Indicative rates (Chattel mortgage) | 6.9% – 14.5% p.a. · rate history |
| Finance structures | Chattel mortgage (recommended), Trailer finance, Equipment loan, Sale and leaseback |
How lenders assess low loader finance
Low loaders are specialised but well understood by trailer lenders, and their very long life supports long terms. Valuation turns on axle count, deck configuration, ramp type and chassis condition. Multi-axle and extendable units narrow the buyer pool but command higher values. Operators need to consider permits and pilot requirements, which lenders may ask about for oversize configurations. Established transport businesses are funded on standard terms; contractors buying to move their own plant are assessed on the wider business.
Before you buy
- Match the axle configuration to your typical load and the permits you can realistically obtain in your state.
- Check the gooseneck, ramps and deck for cracking and heavy repair welds — these carry concentrated loading.
- Consider whether a widening or extendable deck genuinely wins you work, since it adds significant cost and weight.
Commonly financed
Drake 2x8 swingwing low loader · Freighter Maxitrans drop deck float · Tuff Trailers quad-axle low loader · Genesis extendable float · Roadwest deck widener
Estimate low loader repayments
- Number of repayments
- 60
- Balloon at end of term
- $46,000
- Total interest (est.)
- $65,107
- Total repaid (est.)
- $295,107
This calculator provides an estimate only and does not account for fees, charges or the specific terms a lender may offer. It is not financial advice or an offer of finance.
Key terms
What is low loader finance?
Low loader finance is a secured loan or lease used to buy a heavy machinery float trailer, with the trailer as security. Terms commonly run 60 to 84 months, reflecting a working life that often exceeds 20 years.
Why are low loaders built with a dropped deck?
A dropped deck lowers the loaded height of tall machinery so the combination fits under bridges and power lines within legal height limits. It also lowers the centre of gravity, which improves stability when carrying heavy plant.