A curtain-sider truck can generally be financed over one to seven years. Newer trucks with bodies in good condition often reach the longer terms, while older units are commonly held shorter because lenders weigh the remaining working life of both truck and body. Overdrive Truck Finance, through Simon Kendrick, compares more than 80 lenders to match the term to your cash flow and freight work, subject to lender criteria.
Key highlights
- Curtain-sider terms typically run one to seven years.
- Newer trucks and bodies access longer terms; older units, shorter.
- Longer terms lower repayments but increase total interest.
- Overdrive compares 80+ lenders to find a suitable term.
Overdrive is a specialist truck finance broker comparing 80+ banks and non-bank lenders on one application. Compare truck finance options or get a free quote in minutes.
The usual term range for a curtain-sider
Curtain-sider finance typically sits between one and seven years. Lenders anchor the maximum term to the working life of the truck and its body, so a near-new unit can often stretch to the longer terms, while an older one may be capped shorter. The curtains, tracks and chassis all need to hold enough value to secure the loan throughout. Your trading history, any deposit and the lender's policy also matter. With more than 80 lenders compared through Overdrive, there is room to find one whose term limits suit both the truck and the repayment you can manage.
What determines the term you can access
The age of the truck at the end of the loan is a leading factor, since lenders want the asset to retain value across the term. The condition of the curtain-sider body, the kilometres on the truck and whether it is new or used all feed in, alongside your credit profile and how long you have traded. Strong, asset-backed applications tend to unlock the fullest terms, while older bodies or newer businesses may see them trimmed. Indicative rates run from around 6.55% p.a. for strong, asset-backed deals; lower-doc, older or cheaper assets and weaker credit are priced higher. A broker can quickly gauge the realistic term for the truck you have in mind.
Choosing a term to suit freight cash flow
A longer term lowers each repayment and eases monthly cash flow, but you pay more interest over the life of the loan. A shorter term costs less overall while demanding higher repayments. For freight operators, the best term usually matches how long you plan to keep the truck earning and the revenue it generates on your lanes. A balloon or residual can trim monthly outgoings, leaving a lump sum at the end. Weighing these trade-offs against your freight income, and how long the truck will stay on your lanes, helps you settle on a genuinely sustainable term.
Not sure what term your curtain-sider will qualify for? Simon Kendrick can compare more than 80 lenders and give you a clear answer. Contact Overdrive Truck Finance for a free, obligation-free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I finance a curtain-sider over seven years?
Seven-year terms are possible, usually on newer trucks with bodies in good condition where the asset holds value across the loan. Older units or worn curtain-sider bodies are more often capped shorter. Your credit profile and the lender's policy also count. Comparing lenders is the best way to find the longest available term.
Does the age of the body affect the term?
Yes. The curtain-sider body is part of the asset securing the loan, so its age and condition influence how long a lender will finance the truck. A well-maintained body supports a longer term, while a worn one may shorten it. Comparing lenders helps you find one that values your specific configuration.
Can I refinance a curtain-sider partway through?
Yes, refinancing is often possible if your circumstances or the market change, and it may lower repayments or free up equity, subject to lender assessment and any exit costs. Overdrive compares more than 80 lenders to see whether refinancing improves your position, depending on the truck's value and your profile.
Is a shorter term cheaper overall?
Generally yes. A shorter term means higher repayments but less total interest, because you are borrowing for less time. A longer term eases monthly cash flow but costs more overall. The right choice depends on your freight income and how long you plan to keep the truck, so weigh cash flow against total cost.
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