This monthly rates guide compares the leading lenders for refrigerated vehicle finance in the UK, covering everything from small refrigerated panel vans to 13.6-metre reefer semi-trailers. Rates are indicative and based on current market conditions as at October 2026. Your actual rate will depend on your credit profile, time in business, asset age, and deposit level.
Refrigerated Vehicle Finance Rates Comparison - October 2026
| Lender | From (APR) | Typical Range | Best For | Min Facility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Close Brothers | 4.5% | 4.5–12% | Prime credits, combined cab+body | £5,000 |
| Lombard (NatWest) | 4% | 4–11% | Large fleets, quality operators | £25,000 |
| Shawbrook | 5% | 5–13% | Non-standard configs, body-on-chassis | £10,000 |
| Aldermore | 5.5% | 5.5–14% | Older assets, adverse credit | £5,000 |
| Haydock Finance | 6% | 6–16% | Owner-operators, small fleets | £3,000 |
| MBFS (Sprinter only) | 4% | 4–9% | New MB van, base vehicle only | N/A |
What Drives Refrigerated Vehicle Finance Rates?
Several factors influence the rate you'll be offered on a refrigerated vehicle. Understanding them helps you present your application in the strongest possible light.
Asset age and specification
Newer refrigerated vehicles command lower rates because lenders face less residual value risk. A 2024-plate Sprinter refrigerated van will attract a significantly better rate than an equivalent 2016-plate vehicle, even if the business credit profile is identical. The refrigeration unit manufacturer (Thermo King vs Carrier vs Hubbard) and its service history also factor into lender appetite.
Time in business and accounts
Two years of trading accounts with profitable figures is the standard benchmark. Businesses under two years old face a more limited lender market, typically Haydock and specialist challenger lenders rather than the prime options.
Deposit level
A 10–20% deposit significantly improves both the rate offered and the chance of approval, particularly for borderline credit profiles. Some lenders will waive the deposit requirement for strong business credits.
Close Brothers
4.5% From (APR) - refrigerated vehicles
Lombard
4.0% From (APR) - fleet, min £25k
Shawbrook
5.0% From (APR) - non-standard configs
Aldermore
5.5% From (APR) - flexible criteria