Truck Finance by Weight

18-Tonne Truck Finance - HP & Lease for 18t Rigid Trucks

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Written by David Doulton · Last updated November 2026

The 18-tonne rigid sits in the mid-range of the rigid truck market, used widely for general haulage, supermarket distribution, construction deliveries and furniture logistics. At 18t GVW, operators benefit from more payload than a 7.5t or 12t truck while avoiding the complexity and cost of a 26t or artic. New 18t rigids cost approximately £70,000–£100,000. Common models include the DAF LF 18t, Mercedes Atego 18t, MAN TGL 18t and Volvo FL 18t.

18-Tonne Truck Finance Rates - November 2026

GVW / CategoryNew Rate (HP)Used Rate (HP)Typical Term
18t rigid - newFrom 5.2% APR-2–5 years
18t rigid - used (up to 5 years)-From 5.7% APR2–5 years
18t rigid with tail-lift - newFrom 5.4% APR-2–5 years
18t refrigerated - newFrom 5.5% APR-3–5 years

Rates indicative only. Subject to credit assessment, trading history, asset type, operator licence status and lender criteria. Doulton Money Limited FCA No. 814533. Commercial vehicle finance is not regulated by the FCA. Rates correct November 2026.

Common 18t Truck Models

  • DAF LF 18t - popular for regional distribution; competitive pricing
  • Mercedes-Benz Atego 18t - well-established; large used market
  • MAN TGL 18t - competitive cost; reliable for general haulage
  • Volvo FL 18t - premium build; popular with chilled and frozen distributors
  • Iveco Eurocargo 18t - popular in construction and waste sectors
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What payload does an 18t truck carry?

Gross Vehicle Weight of 18t minus kerb weight of approximately 7–8t leaves a payload of approximately 10–11 tonnes. Body type (curtainsider vs flatbed vs box) has a small effect on body weight and therefore payload.

What licence do I need to drive an 18t rigid?

Category C (full articulated/rigid). C1 (the light rigid entitlement on pre-1997 licences) covers vehicles up to 7.5t only. Most professional HGV drivers hold full Cat C.

Is used 18t truck finance readily available?

Yes. 18t rigids are a liquid used market - there is good stock and multiple lenders are active. Used rates are typically 0.4–0.5% higher than new. Age and mileage matter; vehicles over 10 years old will find fewer lenders.

Can I get a refrigerated 18t on finance?

Yes. Refrigerated bodies add cost and complexity but are well understood by HGV lenders. The refrigeration unit is typically financed as part of the asset. Rates from 5.5% APR for new refrigerated 18t (strong credit).

Doulton Money Limited t/a Doulton Bridging Finance. FCA No. 814533. Company No. 14303203. 20 Wenlock Road, London N1 7GU. Commercial vehicle finance is not regulated by the FCA. Rates indicative only. Subject to credit assessment, trading history, asset type, operator licence status and lender criteria. Rates correct November 2026.

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