Merlo is a niche Italian manufacturer with a smaller UK dealer network than JCB or Manitou. This means the captive finance product has limited scope and promotional activity is less frequent. For the majority of Merlo telehandler buyers - including those buying new - comparing the captive product against the open market through a broker will almost always reveal better or comparable terms, often with more product flexibility.
Merlo Finance vs Independent Broker - Comparison Table
| Factor | Merlo Finance (via Merlo UK) | Independent Broker |
|---|---|---|
| Rate range | 5%–11% | 4.5%–12% (varies by lender and profile) |
| New Merlo from dealer | Yes | Yes - multiple lenders |
| Used Merlo Roto | Not typically available | Yes - Shawbrook, Close Brothers |
| Non-Merlo brands | Not available | All brands financed |
| Rotating telehandlers | Available (Merlo Roto range) | Available - specialist lenders |
| Adverse credit | Standard criteria | Specialist lenders - Aldermore, Haydock |
| Promotional rates | Occasional, limited | Open market rates - often lower |
| Independent comparison | No | Yes - full panel |
| Sole traders | Restricted | Multiple lenders accept |
When Each Route Wins
Merlo Finance wins when:
- Merlo UK is running a specific promotional rate below open market levels
- You want seamless dealer point-of-sale finance on a new machine
- Your credit profile is strong and approval is not a concern
Independent broker wins when:
- No promotional rate is running - the open market is likely competitive or better
- You are buying a used Merlo Roto rotating telehandler
- You have CCJs, adverse credit or a shorter trading history
- You are a sole trader or smaller business
- You want to compare Merlo against JCB or Manitou before committing to the brand
- You need operating lease or a fleet facility covering multiple assets
The Merlo Roto Range - Finance Context
Merlo's rotating telehandler (Roto) range is the brand's distinctive product line, competing with JCB's TM320 and Manitou MRT series. Rotating telehandlers are specialist assets with a narrower resale market, which some lenders reflect in LTV ratios or rates.
| Model | Type | Typical New Price | Finance Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merlo Roto 40.18 | Rotating | £80,000–£100,000 | Good lender appetite - Close Brothers, Shawbrook |
| Merlo Roto 45.21 | Rotating | £95,000–£120,000 | Broker recommended for best comparison |
| Merlo Roto 55.26 MCSS | Rotating, high-reach | £120,000–£155,000 | Specialist terms - broker essential |
| Merlo Roto 60.37 | Rotating, premium | £150,000–£185,000 | Bespoke underwriting - broker required |
| Merlo P 55.10 EVS | Fixed boom | £60,000–£80,000 | Standard appetite across all lenders |