Starting out as an owner-operator, especially for the first time, can feel like navigating a winding road filled with unexpected detours. Traditional financing has more barriers to entry than ever before, making it difficult for many trucking entrepreneurs to get their dreams off the ground.
In the latest episode of the Success In Trucking Podcast, we sat down with Danny Vernon and Tom Parker from the Expediter Services (ES) team to discuss the challenges that aspiring owner-operators face and the value that relationship lending brings to the table.
Why Relationship Lending is a Game-Changer for Owner-Operators
Whether you are just starting to explore your options, or have been down this road a time or two, you likely know the same old song and dance when it comes to traditional truck financing.
Traditional lenders often slam the brakes on dreams with rigid requirements such as high credit scores, hefty down payments, and monthly truck payments that can soar between $4,000 and $6,000. As Danny Vernon noted, “The fact is, fewer lenders will even look at a first-time buyer.”
Because of these barriers to entry, it can be difficult to get past the initial step even if the dream is very much alive. And it is for this reason that ES has chosen a different approach.
At ES, the belief is simple yet transformative: If you can professionally drive the truck, you can own the truck. As Vernon puts it, “Our unique approach to lending focuses on relationship lending rather than traditional credit checks. Eligibility is determined by attitude, aptitude, work history, and work ethic—not just a credit score.”
For qualified applicants, ES offers several financing options including those with $0 down, no balloon payments, and no repricing of equipment—just simple financing where, once the amortization schedule is complete, the truck is yours. “The most satisfying part of our job is when you’re working with someone who may not have had an opportunity through traditional lending,” Tom shared.
Driving Success After Financing: The Owner-Operator Support System from ES
While the conversation primarily focuses on the lending aspect, both Danny and Tom highlight that ES isn’t just focused on getting qualified buyers into a truck; it’s about keeping you on the road to success.
Unlike dealerships focused solely on sales, ES offers a suite of comprehensive support services tailored to the unique needs of owner-operators. Pieces like business formation services, health coverage, vetted motor carrier and service partners, and more that are “not something that you will find with a dealership,” according to Vernon.
Your Business, Your Future, Our Support
For those feeling the weight of industry barriers, ES offers not just a pathway to ownership but a partnership for the journey. After all, it's not just about owning a truck—it's about building a business, creating equity, and driving your future forward with the right trucking support services.
Ready to start your own success story? Tune into the latest Success In Trucking Podcast episode and discover how ES can help you turn the key to your future with comprehensive owner-operator support.