Truck Financing: Peterbilt vs Kenworth vs International

Compare financing options for Peterbilt, Kenworth, and International trucks. Learn how to choose the right loan or lease with Mehmi Financial Group.
Truck Financing: Peterbilt vs Kenworth vs International
Written by
Alec Whitten
Published on
April 19, 2025

When you're in the market for a new commercial truck, choosing between Peterbilt, Kenworth, and International is just the beginning. The bigger question for many owner-operators and fleet owners across Canada is: How will you finance it?

In this guide, we break down the financing options, loan structures, and lease alternatives available for each truck brand—so you can make a confident, informed investment that aligns with your cash flow, route demands, and business growth goals.

Understanding Commercial Truck Financing in Canada

Truck financing allows you to purchase or lease a commercial vehicle for business use by securing funding through a lender. Unlike personal auto loans, commercial truck financing considers:

  • Your credit score
  • Business income or route volume
  • The truck’s age, mileage, and revenue potential
  • Down payment ability and financial documentation

Whether you're purchasing a long-haul rig or leasing a new vocational truck, lenders will weigh these factors before offering financing terms.

Financing Options for Peterbilt Trucks

Peterbilt is known for its exceptional engineering and high resale value, making it a strong asset for trucking businesses.

Loan Options

  • Traditional Bank Loans: Ideal for borrowers with excellent credit and solid financial records.
  • Online Lenders: Faster approvals, flexible terms, and more lenient credit requirements.
  • Manufacturer Financing (PACCAR Financial): Custom solutions tailored to the Peterbilt line, including seasonal payment structures and upgrades.

Lease Options

  • Operating Lease: Lower monthly payments, ideal for short-term use or tech upgrades.
  • Capital Lease: Higher payments, but includes an option to buy the truck at lease end.

Financing Options for Kenworth Trucks

Kenworth trucks are prized for fuel efficiency and innovative design. They're also backed by PACCAR Financial, giving buyers a strong edge in customized financing.

Loan Options

  • Bank Loans: Suitable for established businesses with steady cash flow.
  • Alternative Financing: Includes equipment finance agreements and flexible working capital loans.
  • PACCAR Financing: Offers loyalty programs, step-payment options, and fast-track credit for repeat buyers.

Lease Options

  • Closed-End Lease: Fixed payments, no obligation to purchase.
  • Open-End Lease: Based on estimated mileage and resale value; you may benefit from asset appreciation.

Financing Options for International Trucks

International trucks, offered by Navistar, are durable and versatile, making them popular with Canadian fleets and independent haulers.

Loan Options

  • Credit Union Loans: Personalized service and competitive rates for qualified members.
  • Lease-to-Own (LPO): Combine lower monthly payments with eventual ownership.
  • Navistar Capital: Provides brand-specific financing and incentives tailored to International truck buyers.

Lease Options

  • Full-Service Lease: Includes maintenance and repairs—ideal for small fleets.
  • Walkaway Lease: Return the truck at the end of term with no purchase obligation.

Comparing Financing Across Brands

Choosing between Peterbilt, Kenworth, and International? Look beyond horsepower and mileage. Here's how the financing options compare:

Feature Peterbilt (PACCAR) Kenworth (PACCAR) International (Navistar Capital)
Manufacturer Financing Available via PACCAR Financial Available via PACCAR Financial Available via Navistar Capital
Lease Flexibility Capital + Operating leases Open- & Closed-end leases Full-service & Walkaway leases
Online Lender Options Widely accepted Widely accepted Widely accepted
Best For Long-term ownership & resale Fuel efficiency & tech access Versatility & fleet operations

Tips for Securing the Best Truck Financing in Canada

1. Improve Your Credit Score

Before applying, check your credit report. Pay off outstanding debts and resolve disputes to raise your score—and lower your interest rate.

2. Organize Your Financial Records

Most lenders will ask for:

  • Business tax returns
  • Cash flow statements
  • Proof of income or freight contracts
  • Commercial driving license

Having this ready accelerates approvals.

3. Compare Multiple Offers

Don’t go with the first financing package you see. At Mehmi Financial Group, we work with 30+ lenders to help you compare rates and terms—all in one place.

4. Consider Total Cost of Ownership

Beyond financing, factor in insurance, fuel efficiency, maintenance, and resale value. A slightly higher monthly payment could save you more over the truck's lifecycle.

Calculate Your Truck Loan Payments →

Why Choose Mehmi Financial Group?

As one of Canada’s top commercial truck financing brokers, Mehmi Financial Group provides access to fast approvals, low-down-payment options, and leasing solutions for new and used Peterbilt, Kenworth, and International trucks.

We help truckers across Ontario—from Windsor to Brampton—finance:

  • Single-owner rigs
  • Fleet upgrades
  • First-time purchases with limited credit
  • Sale-leasebacks or refinancing options

Explore Truck Financing Options →
Apply Now or Speak to an Advisor →

Conclusion: Make the Right Move for Your Business

Financing a truck from Peterbilt, Kenworth, or International is a strategic business move that should align with your revenue goals and operational needs. Whether you lease or buy, choosing the right financial structure can improve your margins, reduce stress, and position your business for growth.

Let the experts at Mehmi Financial Group help you weigh your options and secure the deal that’s right for you—so you can focus on what matters most: staying on the road and driving your business forward.

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