Aldermore Bank is a specialist challenger bank with a long track record in commercial vehicle and asset finance. For the refrigerated vehicle sector their key differentiator is flexibility - they will consider older reefer units and businesses with imperfect credit histories that mainstream lenders would decline. As a broker, Doulton Bridging Finance regularly places refrigerated vehicle cases with Aldermore where the profile doesn't fit the standard lender template.
Aldermore Refrigerated Vehicle Finance - Rate Guide
| Asset Type | Typical APR Range | Term | Min Finance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated van (up to 3.5t) | 5.5–11% | 2–5 years | £5,000 |
| Refrigerated LCV / 7.5t rigid | 6–12% | 2–5 years | £8,000 |
| Older reefer vehicle (5–10 years) | 8–14% | 2–5 years | £10,000 |
| Adverse credit consideration | 9–14% | 2–4 years | £10,000 |
Indicative rates only. October 2026.
Why Aldermore for Refrigerated Vehicle Finance?
Where Close Brothers and Lombard focus on prime credit and newer assets, Aldermore occupies a valuable middle ground - strong enough to offer sensible rates to established cold chain operators, yet flexible enough to consider situations that fall outside the standard credit matrix.
Strengths
- Flexible on asset age - up to 10–12 years old at end of term
- Will consider adverse credit and CCJs on a case-by-case basis
- Strong appetite across cold chain sectors
- Accepts older Thermo King and Carrier units
- Competitive for established businesses with a blip on credit
Limitations
- Rates higher than prime lenders for clean credits
- Very recent adverse credit (within 12 months) may be declined
- May require additional security on older assets