What is an Individual Chattel Mortgage?

If you’re self-employed or use your vehicle mostly for business purposes, an Individual Chattel Mortgage can be one of the most flexible and cost-effective ways to finance your car, ute, van or truck. It’s a popular choice for sole traders, contractors and small business owners because it gives you ownership from the start, while allowing you to spread the cost over time in manageable repayments.

At Crestwood Wheels Finance, we know your time is better spent running your business than untangling finance jargon — so we keep it simple, explain everything in plain English, and tailor the loan to your needs.

How a Chattel Mortgage works

A chattel mortgage is like a regular secured car loan, but designed specifically for business-use vehicles. You choose the vehicle you want, we arrange the finance, and you take ownership as soon as the purchase is complete. The lender places a mortgage over the vehicle until the loan is fully paid off.

Because the vehicle is used mainly for business (over 50% of the time), you may be able to claim GST on the purchase price, depreciation, and some of the running costs — though the exact benefits will depend on your circumstances and accountant’s advice.

Why it’s a good fit for business owners

Business owners often prefer a chattel mortgage because:

  • You own the vehicle outright from day one — no waiting until the end of the term.
  • Flexible terms — usually 2 to 5 years, with the option of a balloon payment at the end to reduce monthly repayments.
  • Cash flow friendly — spread the cost so you can keep working capital for other business expenses.
  • Tax advantages — potential GST and depreciation claims.

 

It’s particularly handy for businesses that put their vehicles to work immediately — whether that’s making deliveries, transporting equipment, or travelling to clients.

Who this suits

  • Sole traders who travel for work
  • Self-employed professionals like consultants, photographers, or sales reps
  • Contractors in trades or services
  • Small business owners building or upgrading their fleet

 

Even new business owners with a recently issued ABN may be eligible, depending on their financial position.

Vehicles you can finance

You’re not limited to just one type of car. A chattel mortgage can cover:

  • Utes and vans
  • Passenger cars for client visits and sales work
  • Trucks and heavy vehicles
  • Specialised vehicles like refrigerated vans, service trucks or trailers

Example in action

Mark, a landscaper, needed a heavy-duty ute with enough tray space for tools, soil and plants. By financing it through a chattel mortgage, he owned the vehicle straight away, locked in monthly repayments that matched his seasonal income, and his accountant worked the asset into his tax plan.

Why choose Crestwood Wheels Finance

We don’t just tick boxes — we tailor the finance to fit your business. That means understanding your budget, your vehicle needs, and your future plans. We source competitive rates from trusted lenders and handle all the paperwork so you can stay focused on running your business.

With a Crestwood Wheels Finance chattel mortgage, you can invest in the right vehicle today and pay for it over time, without draining your working capital.

We work with the best lenders in the game

What Type of Borrower Are You?

Before we get started, let us know how you’re looking to borrow. This helps us tailor your loan options and ensure the right documents and details are collected for your situation.

ABN

For business owners or sole traders purchasing a vehicle primarily for business use.

Novated Lease

A salary-packaged vehicle lease arranged through your employer.

Individual Chattel Mortgage

car loan for individuals who are self-employed or using the vehicle mainly for business purposes

Individual Consumer

A standard personal car loan for everyday, non-business use.

Not Sure Yet

No problem — select this if you’re unsure. We’ll help guide you to the right option.