If Manitou is running a promotional rate on a specific new model from an authorised dealer, and your credit is clean, check it carefully - it may be the best available rate. In all other situations, an independent broker with access to Close Brothers, Shawbrook, Novuna, Aldermore and others will secure more competitive terms, broader product choice and independent advice.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Manitou Financial Services | Independent Broker |
|---|---|---|
| Promotional rate (new, selected models) | Yes - 2.9%–4.5% periodically | N/A - market rate |
| Standard rate (new Manitou) | 4.5%–10% | 4.5%–8% (multiple lenders) |
| Used Manitou telehandlers | Limited / not available | Full market - Shawbrook, Close Brothers |
| Non-Manitou brands (JCB, Merlo, etc.) | Not available | All brands covered |
| MT fixed boom range | Available | Available, multiple lenders |
| MRT rotating range | Available | Available - Close Brothers, Shawbrook |
| Adverse credit | Standard credit criteria - limited | Specialist lenders available |
| Independent advice | None | Full market comparison |
| Multiple product options | HP and finance lease only | HP, finance lease, operating lease |
When Each Route Wins
Manitou Finance wins when:
- You are buying a new Manitou MT or MRT from an authorised dealer during a promotional campaign
- The promotional rate is genuinely below what the open market offers
- Your business has clean credit and meets standard credit criteria
- Speed and simplicity at the point of dealer sale matters more than exhaustive comparison
Independent broker wins when:
- You want to finance a used Manitou MT or MRT telehandler
- No promotional rate is available on your chosen model
- You want to compare a Manitou against other brands before committing
- You have CCJs, adverse credit or are a sole trader or newer business
- You need operating lease, fleet finance or a structured facility
- You want to check whether Manitou's standard rate is genuinely competitive
The Manitou Telehandler Range in Finance Context
Manitou produces both fixed boom telehandlers (MT range) and rotating telehandlers (MRT range). Rotating models represent higher-value, more specialist assets with different underwriting considerations:
| Model | Type | Typical Price | Finance Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manitou MT 1335 | Fixed boom | £45,000–£60,000 | Standard appetite - all lenders |
| Manitou MT 1840 | Fixed boom, high reach | £55,000–£75,000 | Strong lender appetite, competitive rates |
| Manitou MRT 2150 | Rotating | £80,000–£110,000 | Good lender appetite with strong profile |
| Manitou MRT 2660 | Rotating, heavy duty | £90,000–£130,000 | Close Brothers, Shawbrook active |
| Manitou MRT 3255 | Rotating, premium | £130,000–£175,000 | Bespoke terms - broker recommended |