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Credit Score for Commercial Vehicle Loans

A credit score is a pivotal factor for a commercial vehicle loan. It is a three-digit numeric summary, ranging from 300 to 900, that summarises your credit history and credit behaviour. 

Checking a credit score for a commercial vehicle loan is essential. It helps to assess whether or not you can qualify for financing. It allows lenders to gauge the repayment capability of the potential borrower, and it impacts both the loan approval and the interest rate. However, certain lenders in India, notably non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) such as Shriram Finance, have relaxed their requirements for a strong credit score. These lenders are now willing to extend commercial vehicle loans to individuals with low or moderate credit scores.

This page will guide you through the intricate aspects, like how the credit score for commercial vehicle loans works, its implications, strategies to improve it, and more.

Minimum Credit Score for a Commercial Vehicle Loan

As mentioned, some lenders require good credit scores for commercial vehicle loans. These scores can be classified as follows:

Credit Score RangeInterpretation of Credit Scores for Commercial Vehicle Loan
750+Excellent
701-749Good
621-700Fair
551-620Poor
300-550Very Poor

 The financial landscape in India has seen a significant revolution in recent times. Unlike conventional rules, a good credit score is no longer the decisive factor for getting a commercial vehicle loan. Acknowledging that a credit score does not entirely reflect the ability to repay the loan, various financial institutions have re-evaluated their eligibility criteria.

These institutions now take a more comprehensive view of a potential borrower's financial profile. They may consider other factors like a stable income, the profitability of the business, business stability, and sometimes even personal references or guarantors. This all-inclusive calculation makes it easier for individuals with low or average credit scores to secure loans without many hassles. 

Note: The criteria can vary from lender to lender. Therefore, it is essential to check the official website or contact the lender directly to understand their specific requirements.

Why is Credit Score Important for a Commercial Vehicle Loan?

Maintaining a good credit score for a commercial vehicle loan is essential. Mentioned below are five reasons why a good credit score is important:

Easier Loan Approval

A high credit score shows financial responsibility, making lenders more likely to approve the loan application. It is seen as a sign that you are less of a risk and more likely to repay the loan on time.

Lower Interest Rates

Lenders often offer lower interest rates to borrowers with high credit scores. This means that the loan could cost less over time.

Negotiation Power

A good credit score gives the advantage to negotiate better terms for your loan. One can secure a lower interest rate or more favourable repayment terms because of their strong credit history.

Desired Loan Amounts

Lenders are typically more willing to offer loans to borrowers with good credit scores. In case you plan to finance a more expensive commercial vehicle, a strong credit score can be beneficial.

Faster Loan Processing

With a good credit score, lenders may process your loan application more quickly.

How your Credit Score Impacts your Eligibility for a Commercial Vehicle Loan?

Your credit score can significantly influence your eligibility for a commercial vehicle loan. Generally, potential borrowers should be at least 21 years old and have a regular income to obtain such loans.

Here is how a good credit score can impact your eligibility for a loan -

  • A good credit score can increase borrowing power and the desired loan amount.

  • If your credit score is high, you can obtain a loan at a lower interest rate.

  • A good credit score can give you the upper hand while negotiating the terms of a commercial vehicle loan. This could mean a lengthier repayment period or other terms that make the loan more manageable.

  • Lenders tend to expedite the loan application process for individuals with high credit scores. A good score indicates a lower risk of default, thus requiring fewer checks and speeding up the approval process.

  • Having a good credit score can open up more financial opportunities. It could increase the chances of approval for other types of credit, like business loans or credit cards, and even future vehicle loans.

How to Improve Your Credit Score for a Commercial Vehicle Loan?

Your credit score reflects your credit history and behaviour. The credit score is influenced by your repayment history, credit usage, length of credit history, and account type. There are methods to improve bad credit scores to avail of commercial vehicle loans from Shriram Finance or any other lender. 

Here is how:

Make Timely Payments

Payment history plays a prominent role in your credit score. Paying bills and any existing loans on time shows that you are reliable, and can increase your credit score.

Reduce Credit Utilisation

Credit utilisation is the amount of credit you use compared to the total credit limit. It is recommended to keep this ratio below 30% to maintain a good credit score.

Maintain Old Accounts

The length of credit history also contributes to the score. If you have old credit accounts, keep them open even if you are not using them regularly. This can help lengthen your credit history.

Diversify Your Credit

Having a mix of different types of credit (like credit cards, car loans, or a mortgage) can show that one can manage different types of credit responsibly, improving the score.

Limit New Credit Applications

Every time you apply for a new line of credit, it results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can subsequently lower the score. So, apply for new credit only when necessary.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying for a Commercial Vehicle Loan

Keep the following aspects in mind while applying for a commercial vehicle loan:

Approval Process

The time taken for loan approval can vary greatly between lenders. Typically, it can take a few days to a week once all necessary documents are submitted. Understanding the timeline can help to plan your vehicle purchase accordingly.

Processing Charges

Lenders often levy a one-time, non-refundable processing fee for sanctioning and processing the loan. Take into account this cost while assessing the expenses of the loan.

Other Fees

In addition to processing fees, lenders may levy other charges, including vehicle valuation fees, stamp duty, and penalties for prepayment. Being aware of these supplementary expenses can aid in determining a more precise overall loan cost.

Repayment Tenure

The loan duration can be quite flexible and largely depends on your financial situation and negotiation with the lender. The longer the tenure, the lower the equated monthly instalments (EMIs), but the higher the total interest paid.

Interest Rates

Interest rates can significantly impact the loan repayment amount. These rates can depend on a variety of factors, including your credit score, the lender's policies, and market conditions.

Credit Score

A good credit score can facilitate faster loan approval, better interest rates, and more favourable loan terms. Checking and improving your credit score before applying for a loan can significantly benefit you.

Impact of Low Credit Score on Commercial Vehicle Loan

While assessing the application for a commercial vehicle loan, various lenders, like banks and NBFCs, usually consider your credit score.

A poor credit score could negatively affect the loan application. This score is a reflection of your past behaviour in using and repaying credit. A low score implies to lenders that the borrower has a higher risk of not paying back the loan. As a result, lenders may be reluctant to approve the commercial vehicle loan. Additionally, even if you get approval for the loan, a poor credit score could influence the terms and conditions of the loan, such as the interest rate and the repayment period.

As a general rule, individuals with poor credit scores may often have to pay higher interest rates. Over the loan term, you might pay substantially more than if you had a higher credit score. Hence, it is crucial to understand the potential effects of a poor credit score and make efforts to enhance it before applying for a commercial vehicle loan.

How to Get a Commercial Vehicle Loan for a Low Credit Score?

Getting a commercial vehicle loan with a low credit score may seem challenging, yet it is not impossible. As mentioned earlier, certain lenders like Shriram Finance are more flexible in their approach and are willing to consider other factors beyond credit scores.

Let us take a look at how you can obtain a commercial vehicle loan with a low credit score:

Choose the right lender

Not all financial institutions weigh credit scores equally. Some lenders, especially non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), place more emphasis on other aspects of your financial health.

Highlight your income

Income stability can be a persuasive factor for lenders. Regular and stable income reflects your ability to meet loan repayment obligations, even with a low credit score.

Your employer matters

If you work for a well-established company, lenders might consider this as a positive factor. A reputable employer can indicate job stability, which can translate into regular income, enhancing your ability to repay the loan.

Consider a co-applicant or guarantor

If you have a low credit score, having a co-applicant or guarantor with a good credit score can increase the chances of loan approval. Their good credit can reassure lenders that the loan will be repaid.

Impact of Credit History on a Commercial Vehicle Loan

Your credit history plays a significant role when applying for a commercial vehicle loan. It acts as a report card for lenders, showing how well you've managed and repaid your past debts.

A good credit history can increase the chances of loan approval, get you lower interest rates, allow for a higher loan amount, and even possibly offer better loan terms.

Conclusion

Applying for a commercial vehicle loan involves several considerations, chief among them being credit score. This key financial indicator can significantly impact loan approval, interest rates, and other terms.

However, it's crucial to remember that a low credit score isn't a roadblock. With careful planning and strategies to improve your financial profile, securing a commercial vehicle loan is very much possible. Also, remember that various lenders offer loans to borrowers with lower credit scores, focusing on income stability and other factors, so choose your lender wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it easy to get commercial vehicle loans?

The ease of getting a commercial vehicle loan depends on various factors such as your credit score, income stability, the profitability of the business, and the lender's specific criteria.

What is the minimum credit score required for a commercial vehicle loan?

The minimum credit score required for a commercial vehicle loan varies among lenders. However, a score of 650 or higher is generally considered favourable.

Can I get a commercial vehicle loan with a 620 credit score?

Yes, you can get a commercial vehicle loan with a 620 credit score, especially from lenders like Shriram Finance which consider other financial factors beyond just credit score.

How to check credit scores for commercial vehicle loans?

You can check the credit score for a commercial vehicle loan online using Shriram Finance website or through certain banks and financial institutions that offer this service.

How much credit score is required to get a commercial vehicle loan?

A credit score of 650 or higher is typically considered good for obtaining a commercial vehicle loan. However, specific requirements can vary among lenders.

Why do NBFCs check credit scores before approving commercial vehicle loans?

NBFCs check credit scores before approving a commercial vehicle loan to assess the risk associated with lending. A good credit score indicates that the borrower is likely to repay the loan on time.

How to get a commercial vehicle loan with a low credit score?

To get a commercial vehicle loan with a low credit score, consider selecting a lender that doesn't weigh credit scores heavily, demonstrate your income stability, or consider having a co-applicant or guarantor with a good credit score.

Does credit score affect commercial vehicle loan eligibility?

Yes, a credit score affects commercial vehicle loan eligibility. A higher score can make it easier to secure a loan, get better interest rates, and negotiate favourable loan terms.

How to get a commercial vehicle loan without a credit score?

To get a commercial vehicle loan without a credit score, you may be required to show other aspects of financial stability, such as consistent income or business profitability. As an alternative, you can also consider using a co-signer or guarantor with a good credit score.