
Finance That Drives Your Business Forward – With Support You Can Rely On.
Buses and coaches are at the heart of many successful UK businesses, from private hire and school contracts to public transport and tourism. But buying one outright isn’t always practical—and that’s where finance steps in. Whether you’re looking to grow your fleet or simply replace a vehicle that’s no longer fit for purpose, understanding your options can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll show you how bus and coach finance works, why getting the right loan matters, and how First Oak Capital can help make the process simple, stress-free and successful.
Looking for bus and coach finance to grow your business? Whether you’re expanding your passenger transport fleet, replacing older vehicles, or starting a new service route, securing the right finance is crucial. We also support new businesses getting started in the industry, helping them access the funding they need to hit the road with confidence. At First Oak Capital, we make the process straightforward. We communicate clearly, handle all the paperwork, and work to get you approved with the best possible terms.
We can provide hire purchase or lease agreements and help you decide which one is best for you.
Even though interest rates have risen recently, we can still access market-beating rates from 3.8%.
Whether you’ve found a great deal on a new bus or have your eye on one a few years old, we can still help.
Our bespoke bus and coach finance software allows us to identify the best deal available for your business, fast!
Let us take the hassle out of arranging your vehicle finance. We’ll do the heavy lifting—from checking over your chosen supplier to arranging an HPI check on the bus or coach you’re planning to buy, all at no extra cost. We know which lenders are likely to say yes, which ones offer the best rates for your situation, and how to strengthen your application. Many clients come to us after trying (and failing) to get funding on their own. We’re here to give your application the edge.
Complete our short online form or give us a call so that we can collect some basic information to us to enable us to help you.
Based on your requirements and credit history, our technology will highlight the most suitable lenders in order to offer you the best rates available.
After approval is gained from one of our lenders, documents are often signed online for an efficient and fast process.
We will speak to the supplier and send payment so that you can arrange collection of your new bus or coach.
Benefit from our 30 years of experience and expertise in commercial finance brokering
Increase business growth and save money with highly competitive industry rates
Access to more than 100 lenders in the UK finance market
Once approved, funding can be provided in as little as 48 hours
Financing a bus or coach involves borrowing a sum to purchase the vehicle, then repaying it over an agreed term. Lenders will consider your business’s trading history, financials, and the vehicle you’re buying. You can either own the vehicle outright at the end or lease it, depending on the finance type you choose.
You’ll usually need:
Don’t worry if you haven’t gathered all the paperwork yet—our team can guide you step by step.
Let us take the hassle out of arranging your vehicle finance. We’ll do the heavy lifting—from checking over your chosen supplier to arranging an HPI check on the bus or coach you’re planning to buy, all at no extra cost.
We don’t just send your application off and hope for the best. We:
We know which lenders are likely to say yes, which ones offer the best rates for your situation, and how to strengthen your application. Many clients come to us after trying (and failing) to get funding on their own. We’re here to give your application the edge.
A good finance deal isn’t just about getting the money—it’s about keeping your business stable. We make sure you:
Poorly structured loans can lead to stress, missed payments, or being stuck in a deal that doesn’t fit your operations. That’s why we take the time to get it right from the start.
There are several options when it comes to funding your vehicle purchase. Each has its benefits depending on your circumstances:
1. Hire Purchase (HP)
You pay a deposit and then monthly payments. Ownership passes to you at the end of the term. This option is straightforward and popular for asset purchases like buses and coaches.
2. Finance Lease
You use the vehicle and pay monthly rentals, but you don’t own it. You can often continue using it at a reduced cost or sell it on and keep a portion of the proceeds.
3. Operating Lease
Ideal if you want to upgrade regularly. This is more like a long-term rental and doesn’t tie up your capital.
4. Asset Refinance
Already own vehicles outright? You can unlock cash tied up in those assets to use as working capital or a deposit on a new vehicle.
5. Term Loans
Need a lump sum for a purchase or to top up part of the cost? A term loan can be a flexible option to fill funding gaps.
We support a wide range of UK businesses. To apply for finance through First Oak Capital, you must be:
You don’t need perfect credit, but you do need a clear plan for how the vehicle will support your business growth. If you’re not sure what you qualify for, just give us a call—we’ll point you in the right direction.
Securing finance for buses or coaches as a new business can feel like an uphill battle—but that’s exactly where we come in.
At First Oak Capital, we specialise in helping start-ups and newly established operators get the vehicles they need to get moving. Traditional lenders often hesitate with businesses that lack trading history—but we know which lenders will take a more flexible view.
Whether you’re launching your first transport company, starting a new contract, or looking to expand your existing fleet under a new venture, we’ll help package your application in a way that gives lenders confidence. From presenting your plans to identifying the right lenders who understand the sector, we’ll support you every step of the way.
✔️ Access specialist funders who work with new operators
✔️ Flexible options including Hire Purchase and Lease
✔️ Quick turnaround to get you on the road faster
✔️ One-to-one support from a real person who gets it
You’re not just another number—and this isn’t just another loan. Let’s get your business moving.
For advice on running a passenger transport business, the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) offers practical guidance on safety and compliance. Visit DVSA guidance.
If you’re looking for industry insights and updates relevant to commercial transport, Route One Magazine is a useful and regularly updated trade publication.
Before applying, it’s helpful to think about:
At First Oak Capital, we look at all these details and advise you accordingly. We don’t just send an application off and hope—it’s prepared, presented and supported at every step.
First, we’ll chat about what you need—whether you’re buying one vehicle or a full fleet. We’ll explain your options, outline the process, and then get started gathering the info lenders want to see. We handle the forms, the follow-up, and the negotiation so you can stay focused on your business.
If you’re ready to get started, we’d love to speak with you. Give us a call or fill out the form on our website, and we’ll show you just how easy we can make the finance process.
We pride ourselves on staying in touch. You’ll always know where things stand, what we’re doing, and what comes next. If a lender comes back with questions or needs more detail, we’re already on it.
You won’t be left chasing us for updates. We know the finance process can be stressful, especially when your business depends on it. That’s why we’re here—responding quickly, clearly, and helpfully every time.
Among UK finance brokers, First Oak Capital stands out for providing the best and most competitive business car finance. What makes us the right choice for you?
Here at First Oak Capital, we’re more than just finance brokers. We’re a trusted business partner who helps your business thrive. So if you are thinking about business car financing, contact us today. With our help, you’ll find the perfect deal for your business, so it can continue to suceed and grow.
Q: How long does it take to get approved?
A: We can often get an initial decision within 24–48 hours. Final approval and payout usually take a few days longer, depending on how quickly documents are returned.
Q: Can I get finance with a poor credit history?
A: Yes, depending on your circumstances. We work with lenders who take a flexible approach and look at the full picture.
Q: Can I finance more than one bus or coach?
A: Absolutely. We can help fund multiple vehicles, whether through a single agreement or structured deals.
Q: Do I need a deposit?
A: Some asset finance options require a deposit, while others don’t. We’ll talk through your best route based on your cash position.
Q: Is there a minimum loan size?
A: Yes, our minimum loan size for bus and coach finance is £25,000.
Q: Can startups apply?
A: Yes, we help many startups. As long as you have a plan and a business use for the vehicle, we can explore the options with you.
*This interest rate is for illustrative purposes only, your interest rate may differ and will be confirmed during your application.
Excellent : This category is for companies with an outstanding credit rating. Your business will be profitable, well established, and have a consistent or growing turnover. With no missed payments.
Fair : This category is for companies with a decent credit rating. They have a history of making payments on time, with possibly a few missed or late payments in the past.
Poor : This category is for companies with a poor credit rating or who may have had financial difficulties in the past. This could include a County Court Judgments (CCJs) on their record.
For further information regarding financing buses, coaches, or other types of commercial finance we offer, please give our friendly team a call. We’re open Monday – Friday, 9.00-5pm. Or if you’re ready to get started, click the button below.
Complete our short business finance eligibility form in seconds, with no obligation. Simply click ‘submit’, and we’ll contact you within minutes to discuss