Food distribution fleet finance covers the full spectrum of temperature-controlled and ambient delivery vehicles - from single-van ambient delivery operations to multi-temperature articulated trailer fleets for wholesale food logistics. Lenders with appetite for this sector understand cold chain compliance, ATP certification and the income patterns of food distribution businesses.
Vehicle Types Covered
- Refrigerated artic trailers - Thermo King or Carrier-equipped, single and multi-temperature
- Refrigerated rigid lorries - 7.5t-26t for regional chilled distribution
- Ambient panel vans - for dry goods and ambient food delivery
- Multi-temperature vehicles - chilled/frozen/ambient in one unit
- Tractor units - for food distribution trailer pulls
Cold Chain and Multi-Temperature Context
ATP certification (Accord on Transport of Perishables) is required for international temperature-controlled food transport. UK domestic chilled distribution is not legally required to hold ATP, but good practice standards are widely observed. Multi-temperature trailers - carrying frozen, chilled and ambient goods simultaneously - command higher values and attract similar finance terms to standard refrigerated trailers.
Rate Guide - October 2026
| Vehicle Type | Rate Range (APR) | Term | LTV |
|---|---|---|---|
| New refrigerated artic trailer | 5.5-8% | 3-5 years | 85% |
| New refrigerated rigid (7.5t-18t) | 5.5-8.5% | 3-5 years | 85% |
| Used refrigerated trailer (under 5yr) | 7-11% | 2-4 years | 80% |
| Ambient van fleet | 5-7.5% | 3-5 years | 90% |
| Adverse credit / start-up | 11-16% | 2-3 years | 65% |
Worked Example - 5-Vehicle Chilled Distribution Fleet
| Detail | Figure |
|---|---|
| Assets | 5x 2023 18t Mercedes Atego refrigerated rigids |
| Total value | £450,000 |
| Deposit (15%) | £67,500 |
| Amount financed | £382,500 |
| Term | 48 months |
| Rate | 7% APR |
| Monthly payment | approx. £9,170 |