Client Profile:
- Business: Independent manufacturer and installer of carports and canopies
- Location: Midlands, UK
- Established: 2017
- Sector: Light construction & home improvements
- Challenge: Needed to acquire a new L5 Ford Transit Flat Bed van to meet growing delivery and installation demands
- Solution: Asset finance arranged by Sorbus Finance
Background
Our client, a family-run carport and canopy business based in the Midlands, has seen steady growth in recent years. With a reputation for quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service, the company has expanded its operations to cover a broader geographical area, serving both residential and commercial clients.
As demand increased, so did the logistical pressures on their team. Their existing fleet—two aging vans—was no longer adequate. The company needed a more robust transport solution to meet growing delivery schedules, especially for larger commercial installations that required long-span aluminium canopies and structural steel components.
Lots of finance companies find it easy to support with regular vehicles and funding, however at Sorbus Finance, we believe that specialist van finance solutions are a perfect match for customer builds, chassis and conversions to deliver great outcomes.
The Requirement
The business had identified a new Ford Transit L5 Flat Bed van as the ideal solution. The extended wheelbase, payload capacity, and drop-side flatbed configuration would allow their installation team to securely transport longer, bulkier materials in fewer trips. It would also improve efficiency, reduce mileage costs, and support their goal of expanding into new regions.
However, like many small to mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), the company was cautious about depleting cash reserves. With several upcoming projects already booked and ongoing investments in new equipment, they were looking for a flexible and competitive asset finance solution to acquire the vehicle without impacting working capital.
The Challenge
The client approached several high-street banks and vehicle finance providers but faced a common set of obstacles:
- Rigid lending criteria: Mainstream lenders were offering standardised terms that didn’t suit the client’s unique business cash flow.
- Slow turnaround times: Some providers quoted up to 6 weeks for approval and vehicle release—too long given their operational urgency.
- Lack of industry understanding: Generalist lenders didn’t fully appreciate the specific logistics and timing pressures in the construction trade, especially for mobile installation teams.
Faced with time pressure and limited options, the client turned to Sorbus Finance, recommended by a local trade supplier.
The Sorbus Specialist Van Finance Solution
Sorbus Finance quickly engaged with the client, assigning a dedicated finance consultant with direct experience in the construction and logistics sectors. Within 24 hours, the consultant arranged a discovery call to understand the full scope of the business, including:
- Seasonal cash flow fluctuations
- Upcoming project timelines
- Planned growth areas
- Equipment utilisation strategy
Armed with this insight, Sorbus tapped into its extensive panel of specialist lenders and quickly identified three potential funding routes. The selected solution was a 36-month Hire Purchase agreement with the following terms:
- Low fixed monthly repayments to maintain cash flow stability
- Deferred first payment to align with a major client invoice
- Early settlement flexibility allowing the client to own the vehicle outright sooner if desired
- Pre-agreed balloon option for re-financing at term end
Total approval time: 48 hours
Van delivery: within 5 working days
Results
The client was able to take delivery of the L5 Transit Flat Bed van within a week of application—without straining working capital or missing any project deadlines.
Key outcomes:
- 30% increase in delivery efficiency: With a longer bed and higher payload, materials are transported in fewer trips.
- Expanded geographic service area: The team now covers an additional 60-mile radius, increasing lead generation potential.
- Improved staff productivity: Installation crews spend less time loading/unloading and more time on site.
- Greater financial agility: The flexible finance terms preserve liquidity for future investments.
The client is now in discussions with Sorbus Finance about additional equipment funding for a small mobile workshop unit to further streamline on-site fabrication.
Client Testimonial
“Sorbus Finance understood our business better than anyone else. They didn’t just quote figures—they asked the right questions and delivered a tailored solution that actually fits our needs. The van’s already making a huge difference to how we work.”
– Managing Director, Midlands Carport & Canopy Installations
Why Sorbus Finance?
This case highlights Sorbus Finance’s ability to support growing businesses with fast, flexible, and industry-specific asset finance solutions. By focusing on the bigger picture—not just the numbers—Sorbus helps business owners make strategic investments without compromising day-to-day operations.
Whether it’s vans, plant machinery, or specialist tools, Sorbus works across multiple sectors to ensure UK SMEs get access to the vehicles and equipment they need—on terms that work for them.
Looking for a finance partner that gets your business?
Talk to Sorbus Finance today.