Invoice Finance for Rail
Maintenance Contractors

Get paid faster and improve your cash flow with invoice finance solutions created for rail maintenance contractors.

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Turn Unpaid Invoices Into Cash Quickly To Maintain Operations

Rail maintenance contractors are the backbone of the UK’s transport network, delivering essential services such as track renewals, signalling upgrades, and rolling stock maintenance. These projects are vital to the smooth operation of railways but often bring financial challenges — particularly when payments are delayed by main contractors or rail operators.
While firms can complete work on time and to a high standard, cashflow gaps often appear because invoices may take 60–90 days to be settled. Meanwhile, payroll, supplier invoices, and compliance costs must be met without delay.

Rail contractors invoice finance provides a practical solution by unlocking the cash tied up in unpaid invoices. Instead of waiting months to be paid, contractors can release up to 90% of the invoice value within 24–48 hours, ensuring stable cashflow and uninterrupted operations.

Why Invoice Finance is Important in the Rail Sector

Rail contractors face a unique set of cashflow pressures that make invoice finance a powerful tool:
  • Extended Payment Terms – Long settlement cycles with main contractors and operators.
  • High Fixed Costs – Payroll, equipment servicing, and insurance continue regardless of income timing.
  • Project-Based Work – Revenue often arrives in lump sums, leaving gaps in between.
  • Compliance Costs – Ongoing investment in safety training and certifications is unavoidable.
  • Growth Demands – Expansion requires working capital, even before invoices are settled.
Invoice finance ensures these obligations can be met without relying on overdrafts or exhausting cash reserves.

How Rail Invoice Finance Works

The process is simple and contractor-friendly:

Invoice Issued

Contractor completes work and raises an invoice to a client.

Funds Advanced

Up to 90% of invoice value is released within 24–48 hours.

Client Pays Invoice

The client pays in full to the finance provider.

Balance Released

Remaining funds (minus fees) are transferred to the contractor.
This allows rail firms to align cash inflow with operational demands.

Benefits of Invoice Finance for Construction Contractors

Faster Access to Funds

Up to 90% of invoice value advanced quickly.

Improved Cashflow

Cover wages, suppliers, and overheads without delay.

Growth Enablement

Take on larger projects without waiting for payments.

Reduced Stress

Eliminate the pressure of long client payment terms.

Supplier Confidence

Pay suppliers on time and build stronger relationships.

Flexibility

Choose factoring, discounting, or spot solutions depending on your needs.

Why Invoice Finance Suits Rail Contractors

In rail maintenance, reliable cashflow is just as important as reliable equipment. Contractors must be able to pay skilled staff, maintain safety standards, and respond quickly to urgent work. Invoice finance enables firms to:
  • Avoid disruption caused by late client payments.
  • Take on more projects without worrying about cash gaps.
  • Maintain compliance and safety standards without financial strain.
  • Strengthen relationships with staff and suppliers through reliable payments.

This makes invoice finance a key facility for maintaining both operational and financial stability.

Case Example – Invoice Finance for a Regional Contractor

A contractor working on signalling upgrades in the Midlands faced a 75-day payment cycle from a rail operator. During this time, they needed to pay subcontractors, purchase safety equipment, and meet payroll.
By arranging invoice finance, the firm released 85% of the invoice value within two days. This gave them the liquidity to complete the project smoothly, retain staff, and position themselves for future contracts.

Why Choose MacManus Asset Finance?

Contractors trust us because:
  • Sector Expertise – Experience supporting rail contractors nationwide.
  • Broad Lender Access – Competitive rates and flexible facilities.
  • Tailored Solutions – Facilities structured to suit contractor cashflow cycles.
  • Fast Approvals – Funding available quickly to prevent project delays.
  • Trusted Partner – Long-term support as firms expand operations.

Key Takeaways

Rail contractors cannot afford to let cashflow problems derail their operations. With delayed client payments a regular feature of the sector, maintaining liquidity can be a challenge.

Rail contractors invoice finance provides the ideal solution by advancing up to 90% of the value of unpaid invoices, allowing firms to meet obligations and focus on delivering high-quality work.

By partnering with MacManus Asset Finance, contractors gain access to tailored facilities, competitive terms, and ongoing support to help their businesses grow in this demanding industry.

Rail Contractors Invoice Finance FAQs

Typically up to 90%, with the balance released once the client pays.
Usually within 24–48 hours of submitting the invoice.
Options include both disclosed and confidential invoice finance.
Yes, selective invoice finance allows flexibility.
Not always — flexible facilities are available.
Yes, facilities are available for businesses of all sizes.

Get Your FREE Invoice Finance Review

Fill out the form below or call us at 0330 027 0433 for more details

and we’ll get in touch to discuss your options.

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MacManus Asset Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN: 821663. MacManus Asset Finance Ltd is an authorised credit broker and not a lender. We work with a Panel of Lenders whose particulars will be supplied upon request to find a potentially suitable arrangement for your consideration. ICO registration Z9484665 and you can check via www.ico.org.uk.

 

MacManus Asset Finance Ltd, registered at Ground Floor, Unit 5 De Clare Court, Pontygwindy Road, Caerphilly, CF83 3HU. Company Register number is 05785432.
We will receive commission from lenders. Different lenders pay different amounts depending on different commission models. For transparency we work with the following commission models: percentage of the amount you borrow and rate for risk (this is based on the risk profile of the business). Further details of the commission model, calculation and amount will be disclosed to you throughout your customer journey.

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