Learn how to build business credit step by step with the 4 tiers of business credit. Discover the best starter tradelines, vendor accounts, retail cards, and major financing options to grow your company’s credit profile.
Why Building Business Credit Matters
Strong business credit unlocks higher funding limits, lower interest rates, and better vendor terms. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your company, understanding the tiers of business credit will help you build your profile the right way—fast, effectively, and with less risk.
This guide walks you through the 4 tiers of business credit and highlights the best tradeline and financing options for each stage.
Tier 1: Starter Tradelines (Foundation Stage)
Every business begins here. Starter tradelines are essential for creating a credit file with Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, and Equifax Business. Aim to establish at least 3–5 accounts that report.
Best Tier 1 Business Credit Options:
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Credit Strong Business – A business installment loan that reports to major credit bureaus, helping you build business credit history from day one.
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Nav Business Boost – Includes monitoring and reports a tradeline directly to your business profile.
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Uline – Net 30 vendor account for office and shipping supplies. Easy approval for new businesses.
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Grainger – Net 30 vendor account for industrial, safety, and maintenance supplies.
Pro Tip: Start with Credit Strong to build your financial foundation, then add 2–3 vendor accounts like Uline or Grainger to diversify reporting.
Tier 2: Vendor Credit (Growth Stage)
Once you have tradelines reporting, you can qualify for revolving vendor accounts. These accounts provide larger limits and more flexibility than Net 30 starter vendors.
Best Tier 2 Business Credit Options:
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Quill – Office supplies with Net 30 terms. Regular reporting helps strengthen your file.
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Summa Office Supplies – Vendor offering easy approval and bureau reporting.
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Strategic Network Solutions – Digital and IT-related products, reports monthly.
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Crown Office Supplies – Reports to D&B, Equifax, and Experian Business.
Keyword Insight: Businesses often search for “best Net 30 accounts to build business credit.” Make sure to highlight Quill and Crown, as they are popular answers to that query.
Tier 3: Retail Credit Cards (Expansion Stage)
With multiple tradelines established, your business can apply for store credit cards and fleet cards. These accounts boost purchasing power while adding depth to your business credit profile.
Best Tier 3 Business Credit Options:
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Amazon Business Card – Great for businesses that rely on Amazon purchases.
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Home Depot Pro Xtra – Ideal for contractors, property managers, and real estate businesses.
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Lowe’s Business Credit – Large credit potential for construction and improvement needs.
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Shell Fleet Cards – Gas and fleet cards that report to business bureaus.
Keyword Insight: Target “business gas cards that report to credit bureaus” for SEO traffic.
Tier 4: Major Business Credit & Financing (Scaling Stage)
This final tier opens the door to bank financing, high-limit business credit cards, and revolving lines of credit. With strong business credit, you can access six-figure limits and real leverage.
Best Tier 4 Business Credit Options:
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Amex Blue Business Plus – Revolving business card with strong rewards and high approval rates.
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Chase Ink Business Preferred – One of the best business cards for rewards and large credit limits.
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Bank of America Business Advantage – Business credit lines and cards backed by a major bank.
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Divvy – Expense management and reporting system that strengthens business credit.
Pro Tip: By the time you reach Tier 4, your business may qualify for loans, lines of credit, and premium bank cards—all without relying on personal credit.
Final Thoughts: Your First Step Toward Business Credit
Business credit is built in stages:
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Tier 1: Starter tradelines (foundation)
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Tier 2: Vendor accounts (growth)
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Tier 3: Retail and gas cards (expansion)
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Tier 4: Bank-issued credit & financing (scaling)
The key is starting with accounts that report and gradually working up to higher-level financing.
👉 Begin today with the most reliable foundation: Credit Strong Business.
Frequently Asked Questions About Building Business Credit
What is the fastest way to build business credit?
The fastest way to build business credit is to open starter tradelines that report to business credit bureaus. Options like Credit Strong Business and vendors such as Uline or Grainger report your payment history, helping establish your profile within 30–60 days.
How long does it take to build business credit?
Most businesses can establish a basic credit profile in 3 to 6 months by opening multiple tradelines and paying on time. Reaching higher tiers (retail cards and bank financing) typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on how aggressively you build.
Do I need good personal credit to build business credit?
Not always. Many Tier 1 vendors and programs approve businesses without checking personal credit. Over time, strong business credit allows you to qualify for financing without a personal guarantee.
What are the best Net 30 accounts for beginners?
Some of the most popular Net 30 accounts that report include Uline, Grainger, Quill, and Crown Office Supplies. These vendors are easy to get approved for and help establish your early business credit profile.
Can I get business credit without an LLC?
While sole proprietors can get limited credit, forming an LLC or corporation is recommended. It separates your personal and business credit, makes you look more credible to lenders, and protects your personal assets.
Which business credit cards report to credit bureaus?
Most major business cards (Amex Blue Business Plus, Chase Ink, Bank of America, Divvy) report to at least one business credit bureau. Always confirm reporting before applying to maximize your credit-building strategy.
👉 Ready to get started? Begin with Credit Strong Business and lay the foundation for your business credit profile today.
