How are last-mile fleets paid?
Usually through a settlement from the carrier, platform or contract customer after the delivery period closes, which can be weekly or on longer terms depending on the agreement. Check your contract for the exact schedule and any holdbacks or chargebacks.
Meanwhile, fuel, driver pay, maintenance and insurance are due on their own schedule. A fleet can be profitable on paper and still short on cash the week before settlement arrives.
Where does the cash gap come from?
From the days between a route being run and the settlement landing, plus any adjustments after the fact. Seasonal peaks make it larger, because more routes mean more costs paid before more settlements arrive.
| Option | Best for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Line of credit | Gaps that repeat each cycle | Balances that creep up between cycles |
| Working capital | A one-time peak or a larger gap | Repayment pace in slower weeks |
| Revenue-based financing | Income that swings with volume | Total payback; read it in dollars |
How do I size the bridge?
Add one full cycle of fuel, driver pay, insurance and maintenance, then compare it to the settlement you expect to receive. The difference, plus a small buffer, is the amount to bridge.
Do not size the request to your busiest peak every time. Size it to a normal cycle and use a line of credit to absorb peaks, and keep payments something you can cover in a slow week. Fleets that depend heavily on one customer should also read when one shipper is most of your revenue. For a related look at pay cycles, see shipper-direct pay cycles compared, and the last-mile delivery fleets page.
Updated October 24, 2026 · I-95 Funding Team
Frequently asked questions
How long do last-mile settlements take?
It depends on your contract. Check the payment terms and any holdbacks.
Is a line of credit or working capital better for settlement gaps?
A line of credit fits gaps that repeat each cycle; working capital fits a larger one-time need.
Can I apply with a few vehicles?
Check the funding requirements on the site, which list the published thresholds for fleets.
Does applying commit me to an offer?
No. You can review and decline.