Collateral options for ABL: What’s eligible, what’s not?

January 30, 2024

If your business has high inventory levels or is poised for rapid growth, but lacks cash flow, an asset-based loan (ABL) might be the perfect fit. Find out if an asset-based loan could work for your organization.

Does your organization have accounts receivable and inventory that can be leveraged to improve liquidity? The nature and quality of your working capital can make all the difference.

Companies that maintain high levels of quality working capital assets and produce modest cash flow are ideal candidates for an asset-based loan (ABL).

 

Find out if an ABL is right for you

Current asset collateral is key for leveraging an asset-based loan. Manufacturers, distributors and retailers are good candidates for ABLs as they invest significantly in working capital and, in some cases, produce relatively low free cash flow (FCF).

“An ABL can be perfect for a company of this profile, particularly if they are poised for rapid growth, acquisitions or considering a shareholder buyout,” says Dave Slavik, senior vice president for U.S. Bank Asset Based Finance.

The traditional way to measure senior debt capacity is a function of cash flow, typically calculated as a three to four time multiple of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization). ABL uses a borrowing base predicated on working capital liquidation values, which typically range from 50-75% for inventory and 85-90% for accounts.

Many companies can generate higher debt capacity via a borrowing base, rather than traditional commercial loans. 

 

Eligible collateral has a hierarchy

“Lenders specializing in asset-based loans look for collateral that’s liquid,” Slavik adds. The stack-rank asset preference is typically as follows:

  1. Receivables 
  2. Inventory 
  3. Equipment 
  4. Real estate
     

“The higher an asset is in the ranking, the more liquid it is,” Slavik explains. “Ideal collateral are accounts receivable or inventory that’s easily valued and monetized. These include commodities such as metal, lumber, food, fuel or oil. Generally, the faster the asset's turnover, the more attractive it is as collateral.”

Conversely, ineligible assets are usually those with lower value or those that may be subject to material shifts in consumer trends. For example, a wholesaler of shingles is considered stable because the size, look, construction and volume of inventory isn’t likely to experience material year-to-year changes. This stability isn’t the same for a wholesaler of apparel or technology-based products. Both examples are subject to potential obsolescence due to changes in demand trends and product mix. 

Some collateral types are more challenging than others

For purposes of securing an ABL, lenders find the following collateral less desirable:

  • Receivables that are past due or subject to high dilution levels 
  • Foreign receivables without insurance 
  • Inventory that is primarily slow-moving, specialized or consigned 
  • Single purpose real estate or equipment that can be difficult to monetize

Large facilities, such as a steel mill or foundry, are challenging as collateral, but multipurpose buildings like warehouses near dense city centers are not.

“Inventory subject to trademarks can also be challenging,” Slavik adds, “mainly due to the potential for the trademark owner to restrict liquidation channels in an effort to protect its brand. Also, inventory considered to be work in process is typically not eligible for borrowing or will have a reduced advance rate.”

 

It’s prudent to prepare for a meeting with prospective lenders

Lenders often start the process of evaluating a borrower by dispatching field examiners to review their working capital assets. If applicable, third party appraisers are also engaged to evaluate inventory, machinery and equipment, and real estate. After funding, the lender tracks adjustments in value through periodic field exams and inventory appraisals. As a borrower, you will be asked to submit reports at least monthly, that reflect changes in the quantity and/or value of your pledged assets.

Organizations that are looking to work with an ABL facility should consider these questions when looking for potential partners:

  • Do they want a relationship — or do they see it as just a transaction? It’s always best to work with a lender that wants a relationship with your company and seeks to build trust.
  • Do they listen? It’s prudent to choose a lender that’s willing to understand your business, think creatively and tailor a solution to meet your specific needs.
  • Do they have experience in your industry? A major determinant of a lender’s ability to add value to an asset-based structure is its understanding of your business. 
  • How long have they been in the business? Ensuring that your lender has an extensive track record showing an ability to provide this type of financing throughout multiple stages of the economic cycle will serve your business in the long-term.

 

ABL pricing is competitive with traditional loans

Costs can vary by lender, but most borrowers can expect to pay loan costs – such as a closing fee, a direct interest charge, unused fees and modest monitoring fees. Despite more aggressive leverage tolerance and higher advance rates, ABL pricing is competitive with traditional cash-flow structures due to the ABL product having historically low losses industry wide.

 

At U.S. Bank, we’re here to help you decide if an ABL is right for your organization. Contact your relationship manager or visit usbank.com to learn more.

Related content

Evaluating interest rate risk creating risk management strategy

Do I need a financial advisor?

At your service: outsourcing loan agency work

Overcoming high interest rates: Getting your homeownership goals back on track

Everything you need to know about consolidating debts

Gifting money to adult children: Give now or later?

What you should know about buying a car

Is it the right time to refinance your mortgage?

6 questions to ask before buying a new home

What is a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and what can it be used for?

Your financial aid guide: What are your options?

Maximizing your infrastructure finance project with a full suite trustee and agent

6 tips for trust fund distribution to beneficiaries

8 steps to take before you buy a home

What to know when buying a home with your significant other

Common unexpected expenses and three ways to pay for them

7 steps to keep your personal and business finances separate

What you need to know before buying a new or used car

How liquid asset secured financing helps with cash flow

The ongoing evolution of custody: Tips for renewing your custody contract

Key considerations for launching an ILP

Alternative assets: Advice for advisors

An investor’s guide to marketplace lending

What is a CLO?

Beyond Mars, AeroVironment’s earthly expansion fueled by U.S. Bank

ABL mythbusters: The truth about asset-based lending

Collateral options for ABL: What’s eligible, what’s not?

Can ABL options fuel your business — and keep it running?

6 timely reasons to integrate your receivables

Evaluating interest rate risk creating risk management strategy

Protecting cash balances with sweep vehicles

Tech lifecycle refresh: A tale of two philosophies

Changes in credit reporting and what it means for homebuyers

4 benefits of independent loan agents

Middle-market direct lending: Obstacles and opportunities

How to fund your business without using 401(k) savings

Costs to consider when starting a business

How jumbo loans can help home buyers and your builder business

When to consider switching banks for your business

5 tips to help you land a small business loan

Financial steps to take after the death of a spouse

Resources for managing financial matters after an unexpected death

Student checklist: Preparing for college

The A to Z’s of college loan terms

Co-signing 101: Applying for a loan with co-borrower

Practical money skills and financial tips for college students

How I did it: Paid off student loans

Is online banking safe?

Personal loans first-timer's guide: 7 questions to ask

Is a home equity loan for college the right choice for your student

Parent checklist: Preparing for college

How to apply for federal student aid through the FAFSA

What to consider before taking out a student loan

Are you ready to restart your federal student loan payments?

How to use debt to build wealth

What’s a subordination agreement, and why does it matter?

Understanding the true cost of borrowing: What is amortization, and why does it matter?

Your quick guide to loans and obtaining credit

Dear Money Mentor: What is cash-out refinancing and is it right for you?

What are conforming loan limits and why are they increasing

Money Moments: How to finance a home addition

These small home improvement projects offer big returns on investment

Should you get a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit?

Is a home equity line of credit (HELOC) right for you?

How to use your home equity to finance home improvements

How do I prequalify for a mortgage?

Can you take advantage of the dead equity in your home?

4 questions to ask before you buy an investment property

10 uses for a home equity loan

Test your loan savvy

Take the stress out of buying your teen a car

Questions to ask before buying a car

How to choose the best car loan for you

Disclosures

Start of disclosure content

Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rate and program terms are subject to change without notice. Mortgage, Home Equity and Credit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC.