Heavy Equipment Financing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Does the thought of getting a loan for a big piece of machinery feel intimidating? You might be picturing endless paperwork and long waits for approval. But the world of heavy equipment financing has changed for the better. Modern lenders have streamlined the process to be fast, transparent, and surprisingly simple. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about financing heavy equipment, from basic qualifications to choosing between a loan and a lease. We’ll clear up common myths and show you how to get approved quickly, so you can get the equipment you need and get back to running your business.
Key Takeaways
- Choose Between Ownership and Flexibility: Financing is your path to owning a long-term asset and building equity, while leasing provides lower monthly payments and the freedom to upgrade to newer equipment.
- Understand the Full Financial Picture: Look past the sticker price by calculating the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and exploring tax advantages like the Section 179 deduction to grasp the true long-term investment.
- Partner with the Right Lender: Seek out specialized lenders who offer faster, more flexible approvals and prioritize your business's overall health and consistent revenue over just a credit score.
What Is Heavy Equipment Financing?
Getting the right machinery is a game-changer, but the price tag on a new bulldozer or excavator can feel like a roadblock. That’s where heavy equipment financing comes in. It’s a straightforward way to get the tools you need to grow your business without draining your cash reserves. Think of it as a dedicated loan that helps you acquire essential assets, turning a massive upfront cost into manageable monthly payments. This approach not only preserves your working capital for day-to-day operations but also gets the equipment on-site and generating revenue for you much faster.
How Does Heavy Equipment Financing Work?
At its core, equipment financing is a loan designed specifically for purchasing machinery. Instead of paying the full price out of pocket, you borrow the funds and pay them back over time. This is perfect for acquiring big-ticket items like cranes, commercial trucks, or specialized manufacturing tools. The best part? The equipment you’re buying typically serves as the collateral for the loan. This built-in security often makes it easier to get approved compared to other types of business loans, because the lender has a physical asset backing their investment. It’s a practical solution that helps you get to work without waiting to save up the full purchase amount.
What Types of Equipment Qualify?
When you hear “heavy equipment,” your mind probably jumps to bulldozers and cranes, but the term covers a much wider territory. Lenders understand that all kinds of businesses need specific tools to get the job done. According to Crest Capital, financing isn't limited to brand-new machinery; it can also cover used items, vehicles, and even essential software. This flexibility is common, with lenders like Bank of America funding everything from heavy industrial machines to standard office equipment. The simple rule of thumb is this: if an asset is crucial for your business operations and helps you bring in revenue, it almost certainly qualifies for equipment financing.
Your Step-by-Step Financing Guide
Getting started with equipment financing is more straightforward than you might think. First, pinpoint exactly what you need and how it fits into your budget. Once you have a clear picture, you’ll gather some basic financial documents, like bank statements and tax returns. With your paperwork in order, you can start exploring lenders to find the best fit for your business. When you’re ready, you’ll submit an application and provide your documents. From there, the lender will review your information and present you with an offer. Make sure to read the terms carefully before signing on the dotted line.
How Your Equipment Secures the Loan
When you hear that the equipment acts as collateral, it simply means the machine you’re financing secures the loan. If for some reason you can’t make the payments, the lender has the right to repossess the equipment to cover their loss. While that sounds a bit intimidating, it’s actually a good thing for you as a borrower. This arrangement lowers the risk for the lender, which can lead to better approval odds and more favorable terms for your business. It shows you’re invested in an asset that directly contributes to your company’s growth, making you a more attractive candidate for financing solutions like a business term loan or other funding options.
Using Business Assets vs. Personal Collateral
One of the biggest advantages of equipment financing is that the machine itself secures the loan. This is a huge relief compared to other loans that might require you to put up personal assets, like your home or savings, as collateral. By using the equipment as the sole security, you create a clear separation between your business and personal finances, protecting what you’ve worked hard to build outside of your company. Lenders are comfortable with this arrangement because heavy machinery holds its value and has a long operational life. It’s a tangible asset that reduces their risk, which often translates into a smoother approval process for you. This asset-based approach is why many modern equipment financing solutions are designed to support your growth without putting your personal life on the line.
Explore Your Heavy Equipment Financing Options
When you need to acquire heavy machinery, you have several paths you can take. The right financing option depends on your business's financial health, how long you plan to use the equipment, and your goals for ownership. Understanding the key differences between loans, leases, and other funding types will help you make a smart decision that supports your company's growth without straining your cash flow. Let's walk through the most common ways to fund your next big purchase.
Traditional Heavy Equipment Loans
An equipment loan is a straightforward way to finance your machinery. You borrow a set amount of money to purchase the equipment and pay it back over time with interest. What’s great about this option is that the equipment itself typically serves as collateral for the loan, which can make the approval process simpler. You can often secure equipment financing for amounts ranging from $5,000 to over $500,000. For smaller loans, many lenders don't even require extensive financial statements or tax returns, which speeds things up considerably. Once you pay off the loan, you own the equipment outright, making it a valuable asset for your business.
Typical Loan Amounts and Terms
When you start looking for an equipment loan, you’ll find a wide range of options available. Most lenders offer financing from as little as $5,000 for smaller pieces of machinery up to $500,000 or more for substantial assets. For very large purchases, some lenders can even finance equipment up to $3 million. The repayment period, or term, is often tied to the useful life of the equipment you're buying. A common term length is around five years, but this can vary. Your business’s financial health and the type of equipment will play a big role in shaping the final offer, but the goal is always to create a payment plan that works for your cash flow.
Understanding Costs and Fees
Beyond the sticker price of the equipment, it’s important to understand the full cost of financing. Your interest rate will depend on factors like your credit history and business revenue, but many lenders look at your overall business health, not just a single score. Some lenders also offer 100% financing, which means you may not need a down payment and can even roll in extra costs like delivery or installation. A huge benefit to consider is the tax advantage. Thanks to the Section 179 deduction, you may be able to write off the full purchase price of qualifying equipment in the first year. This can significantly lower your true cost and is a great topic to discuss with your accountant when considering an equipment financing agreement.
Understanding Equipment Leases
If owning equipment isn't your top priority, an equipment lease might be the perfect fit. Think of it as renting the machinery for a specific period. Your monthly payments are typically lower than loan payments, and you get the major benefit of easily upgrading to newer models when your lease term ends. This keeps your business equipped with the latest technology without the long-term commitment of ownership. At the end of the lease, you usually have a few choices: you can return the equipment, renew the lease, or purchase the machine at its current market value.
What Is Revenue-Based Financing?
For businesses looking for a more flexible repayment structure, revenue-based financing is an excellent alternative. Instead of a fixed monthly payment, your payments are based on a percentage of your company's monthly revenue. This means you pay less during slower months and more when business is booming, which can be a lifesaver for seasonal industries. This approach helps you acquire the equipment you need without locking you into a rigid payment schedule, preserving your cash for other operational costs and unexpected emergencies. It’s a modern funding solution designed to work with your business's natural rhythm.
Using SBA Loans for Heavy Equipment
Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loans are another strong contender for financing heavy equipment. These loans often come with favorable terms and lower interest rates, making them more accessible for some small businesses. While the application process can be more involved, the stability they offer is a significant advantage, especially in a fluctuating market. An SBA loan can provide the capital you need to invest in critical equipment, helping to secure your company's long-term stability and growth. They are specifically designed to support small and medium-sized businesses, making them a valuable resource to explore.
Business Lines of Credit for Equipment
A business line of credit offers a different kind of flexibility when it comes to funding your equipment needs. Instead of a lump-sum loan for a single purchase, it gives you access to a revolving credit line you can draw from whenever you need it. This is perfect for covering not just the initial purchase but also unexpected repairs or future upgrades. You only pay interest on the funds you actually use, which helps you preserve cash flow for other parts of your business. This makes a line of credit a strategic financial tool, giving you the freedom to manage equipment expenses on your own terms without having to reapply for a new loan each time a need arises.
Do You Qualify for Heavy Equipment Financing?
Securing financing for heavy equipment might seem like a huge hurdle, but it’s more straightforward than you think. Lenders generally look at a few key areas of your business to determine if you’re a good fit. Understanding what they’re looking for is the first step toward a successful application. It’s all about showing that your business is stable and has the means to handle the new payments. Let’s walk through the main qualifications so you can feel confident when you’re ready to apply for equipment financing.
Your Credit Score: What Lenders Look For
Your credit score is one of the first things a lender will check, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. While many traditional lenders prefer a personal credit score of at least 650, don’t let that number discourage you. Many modern financing partners, including us at Advancery, look at your business’s overall health, not just a single score. If you have a co-signer or personal guarantor on the loan, their credit history will also be considered, which can sometimes strengthen your application. The key is to find a lender who sees your business’s potential beyond the numbers.
Personal Guarantor Requirements
A personal guarantee is a common requirement in equipment financing, and it’s important to understand what it means for you. Essentially, it’s your personal promise to repay the loan if your business is unable to. This means your personal assets—like your home, car, or savings—could be used to cover the debt. Lenders often ask for a personal guarantee from anyone who owns a significant portion of the business, typically 20% or more. It’s their way of securing the loan and ensuring that the business owners are fully invested in its success. While it sounds serious, it’s a standard part of the process that gives lenders the confidence to fund your equipment, especially if your business is newer or still building its credit history.
Meeting Revenue and Business History Requirements
Lenders want to see a track record of stability, which is why they often look for businesses that have been in operation for at least two years. This history shows them you’ve managed the ups and downs of running a company and have built something lasting. Alongside your business history, consistent revenue is critical. It demonstrates that you have the cash flow to comfortably make your payments. This isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing that your business is on solid ground and ready to grow with the new equipment you’re looking to finance.
Minimum Annual Revenue
When it comes to revenue, lenders often have a benchmark in mind to assess your business's ability to handle new payments. Many look for a minimum of $250,000 in annual revenue as a sign of stability and consistent cash flow. This figure isn't just an arbitrary number; it serves as a quick indicator of your company's financial health and its capacity to manage loan repayments effectively. While some traditional institutions might see this as a strict cutoff, it’s important to remember that every lender is different. A strong history of consistent, reliable income can often be just as compelling as hitting a specific revenue target, showing that your business is built to last.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
Getting your documents in order ahead of time will make the application process much smoother and faster. Think of it as preparing your business’s financial story. You’ll typically need your business tax ID number, recent bank statements, and your latest tax returns. Having these items ready to go shows lenders you’re organized and serious. At Advancery, we’ve simplified this with a streamlined online application that gets you answers quickly, so you can spend less time on paperwork and more time running your business.
What to Know About Down Payments
Down payments can vary quite a bit between lenders. Some may require a sizable amount upfront—sometimes 10% to 20% of the equipment’s cost—while others offer more flexible options. A down payment reduces the lender’s risk and lowers your monthly payments, but it can also be a significant cash outlay. Some lenders might also ask for a personal guarantee, which is a promise to repay the loan yourself if the business can’t. It’s important to explore all your options, as some financing solutions are designed to preserve your working capital without requiring hefty down payments or collateral.
Finance or Lease: Which Is Right for You?
Deciding whether to finance or lease your next piece of heavy equipment is a major crossroads for any business owner. There’s no single right answer—the best path depends entirely on your company’s financial situation, long-term goals, and how you plan to use the machinery. Think of it this way: financing is like buying a house, building equity toward full ownership. Leasing is more like renting an apartment, offering lower payments and the flexibility to move into a newer model down the road. Let's break down the key advantages of each approach so you can make a confident choice for your business.
The Pros of Financing Your Equipment
Financing your equipment is a great move if you plan on using it for the long haul. The biggest win here is ownership. Once you make that final payment, the machine is yours, becoming a valuable asset on your company’s books. This path also makes expensive machinery accessible without draining your cash reserves for a massive upfront payment. Instead, you get predictable monthly payments that are easier to budget for. Because the equipment itself acts as collateral, securing an equipment financing loan is often straightforward. Plus, you can typically deduct the interest payments on your taxes, which is a nice financial perk that helps lower your overall cost. It’s a solid strategy for building equity in your business.
When Does Leasing Make Sense?
If flexibility and staying current are your top priorities, leasing might be the perfect fit. The most significant advantage is the ability to upgrade to newer, more efficient models at the end of your lease term. In industries where technology is constantly advancing, this keeps you competitive without the hassle of selling old equipment. Monthly lease payments are also typically lower than loan payments, which can be a huge help for managing your day-to-day cash flow. This frees up capital for other critical business needs, similar to how a line of credit provides financial agility. Depending on the lease structure, your payments may be fully tax-deductible as an operating expense. It’s an ideal choice for businesses that need the best tools without the long-term commitment of ownership.
How Do Taxes Work for Leases vs. Loans?
Both financing and leasing come with significant tax advantages that can make a real difference to your bottom line. The most talked-about is the Section 179 deduction. This IRS rule allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying new or used equipment during the tax year it was placed in service, which can substantially lower your taxable income. This benefit applies whether you finance or lease the equipment, though the specifics can vary with certain types of leases. Beyond that, when you finance, the interest you pay on the loan is also deductible. It’s always a smart move to chat with your accountant to see how these benefits apply to your specific situation and maximize your savings.
Maximizing the Section 179 Deduction
Let’s talk about one of the biggest tax perks available when you acquire heavy equipment: the Section 179 deduction. This IRS rule is a game-changer because it allows you to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying new or used equipment in the same tax year you start using it. The IRS sets a generous limit each year, which can dramatically lower your taxable income. Instead of depreciating the asset over several years, you get the full benefit upfront. This strategic move can free up significant cash flow, allowing you to reinvest in other critical areas of your business.
The best part is that you can take advantage of this deduction whether you pay cash, lease, or get equipment financing. This flexibility means you don’t have to drain your capital to reap the tax rewards. By financing the purchase, you get the machinery you need with manageable payments while still claiming the full deduction in the first year. On top of that, the interest you pay on your equipment loan is also typically deductible, adding another layer of savings. To make sure you get the maximum benefit for your specific situation, it’s always a good idea to chat with your tax advisor.
How to Choose the Best Financing Option
Once you know your options, how do you pick the right one? The best choice isn’t always the one with the lowest interest rate. It’s about finding a solution that aligns with your business goals, cash flow, and long-term strategy. Making a smart decision requires looking at the complete picture, from the true cost of the equipment to the type of lender you partner with.
Think of it like this: you wouldn’t buy a piece of equipment without checking its specs, and you shouldn’t sign a financing agreement without doing the same. By breaking down the decision into a few key steps, you can feel confident that you’re choosing a path that supports your company’s growth. We’ll walk through how to assess your needs, understand your financial capacity, compare lenders, and calculate the total cost so you can secure the right funding for your new asset.
What Equipment Do You Really Need?
Before you even start looking at financing, get crystal clear on what you need. The cost of heavy equipment goes far beyond the initial price tag. You need to account for the full scope of expenses that come with it, including maintenance, insurance, fuel, and any operational costs. Create a detailed budget that includes these additional expenses to get a realistic idea of the total financial commitment. This will help you determine how much funding you actually need and ensure you choose one of the equipment financing options that fits your overall budget without any surprises down the road.
How to Evaluate Your Business Cash Flow
Financing is a powerful tool because it lets you get the equipment you need now while preserving your working capital for other expenses like payroll and inventory. Take a close look at your business’s financial health. How consistent is your revenue? What does your projected cash flow look like for the next year? Understanding this will help you determine a monthly payment you can comfortably afford. This isn't just about getting approved; it's about ensuring the loan payment doesn't strain your day-to-day operations. Properly managing your cash flow is key to making any financing a success.
Compare Lenders: What to Look For
Not all lenders are created equal. While a traditional bank might be your first thought, it’s worth exploring alternatives like specialty equipment lenders and flexible financial partners. Look for a lender with experience in your industry—they’ll understand the value of the asset and your business needs better. Compare their approval speed, collateral requirements, and customer service. You want more than just a loan; you want a genuine partner who is invested in your success. Read reviews, ask for references, and trust your gut. A transparent and supportive lender can make all the difference.
Interest Rates and Loyalty Programs
Interest rates for heavy equipment financing can feel like a moving target, but they generally fall within a range of 5% to 20%. The rate you’re offered will depend on several factors, including your credit score, how long you’ve been in business, and the size of the loan. While a lower rate is always attractive, it’s not the only thing that matters. The lender’s flexibility, approval speed, and overall terms are just as important. Building a relationship with a financial partner who understands your business can lead to better opportunities down the road. Think of it as a long-term strategy—a good lender will want to see you succeed and may offer more favorable terms as your business grows and you need future equipment financing.
Helpful Financial Tools
To make the smartest decision, you need to look beyond the sticker price and the monthly payment. Start by using an equipment loan calculator to get a clear estimate of your payments based on different loan amounts and terms. This is a great first step for budgeting. Next, calculate the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which includes not just the purchase price but also ongoing expenses like maintenance, insurance, and fuel. Finally, explore the significant tax advantages available, like the Section 179 deduction. This allows you to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment in the first year, which can dramatically lower your overall cost. Using these tools helps you understand the full financial picture and choose an option that truly benefits your business.
What's the True Cost of Your Equipment?
The sticker price is just the beginning. To make a truly informed decision, you need to calculate the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). This includes the purchase price plus all associated costs over the equipment's lifespan, like maintenance, repairs, insurance, and fuel, minus any resale value at the end. Understanding the TCO helps you see the bigger financial picture and compare different financing options more accurately. A lease might have a lower monthly payment, for example, but purchasing could offer a lower TCO over five years. Doing this math upfront prevents future financial strain and ensures your investment pays off.
Common Myths About Heavy Equipment Financing
When you're thinking about getting a new bulldozer or commercial oven, the idea of financing can come with a lot of baggage. There are plenty of rumors and old-school ideas floating around that can make the whole process seem intimidating or out of reach. Let's clear the air and tackle some of the most common myths about heavy equipment financing. Understanding the truth can help you make the best decision for your business's growth.
Myth #1: It's Only for Big Companies
A common belief is that equipment financing is a game reserved for large corporations with massive fleets and deep pockets. That couldn't be further from the truth. In reality, financing is a powerful tool that levels the playing field for small and medium-sized businesses. It gives you access to the essential equipment you need to compete and grow without draining your cash reserves on a huge upfront payment. Lenders who specialize in equipment financing understand the unique challenges SMBs face and design their solutions to help you succeed, not hold you back.
Myth #2: You Can Only Finance New Equipment
Do you have your eye on a great piece of used equipment? Many business owners mistakenly believe they can only finance brand-new machinery straight from the factory. The good news is that most modern lenders are flexible and offer financing for both new and used equipment. This opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to find the perfect asset that fits your budget and your needs. Opting for used equipment can significantly lower your monthly payments and get you the tools you need to start generating revenue faster, making it a smart and practical choice for any growing business.
Myth #3: The Costs Are Too High
It’s easy to assume that paying cash is always the cheapest option, but that’s not always the case when you consider the big picture. While you might avoid interest payments, sinking a large sum of cash into a single asset can seriously restrict your company's cash flow. This leaves you vulnerable if unexpected expenses pop up. Financing allows you to keep your capital free for other critical needs, like marketing, payroll, or inventory. Maintaining a healthy line of credit and working capital is essential for day-to-day operations and seizing new opportunities as they arise.
Myth #4: The Approval Process Takes Forever
The thought of a long, drawn-out application process is enough to deter anyone from seeking financing. Many business owners picture mountains of paperwork and weeks of waiting for a decision. Thankfully, that's an outdated view. Modern lenders have streamlined the process to be incredibly efficient. At Advancery, we know you can't afford to wait around. Our process is designed for speed, with simple applications and the potential for same-day approval. You can get the funding you need in hours, not weeks, allowing you to acquire your equipment and get back to running your business. Ready to see how fast it can be? You can apply now online.
How to Get Approved for Financing
Securing the financing you need for heavy equipment doesn't have to be a complicated ordeal. With the right preparation and the right partner, you can move from application to approval smoothly and quickly. The key is to understand what lenders are looking for and to present your business in the best possible light. It’s about more than just filling out forms; it’s about telling a clear story of your company’s stability and potential for growth. Many business owners feel intimidated by the application process, but it’s really just a matter of getting organized and finding a lender who understands your goals. Let’s walk through the essential steps to get your financing application approved, from getting your documents in order to choosing a lender that truly gets your business.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Before you even start an application, take some time to get your financial house in order. Lenders want to see that you have a clear understanding of your business's financial health. Start by gathering key documents like recent bank statements, business tax returns, and a detailed quote for the equipment you plan to purchase. It’s also smart to review your personal and business finances to set a realistic expectation of what you can qualify for. Having everything organized and ready to go not only speeds up the process but also shows lenders that you’re a serious, well-prepared business owner. When you're ready, a streamlined application form can make all the difference.
Simplified Application Processes
The idea of spending weeks buried in paperwork just to get a decision is thankfully a thing of the past. Modern lenders have streamlined the entire application process, making it faster and more straightforward than ever. Many financial partners now offer simple online applications you can finish in minutes, right from your computer or phone. At Advancery, we designed our process for speed because we know opportunities don’t wait. Our goal is to give you an answer quickly—often with same-day approval—so you can get your equipment and put it to work. You can apply now and see just how simple it is to get the funding you need in hours, not weeks.
Specialized Lenders vs. Traditional Banks
When you’re looking for funding, you’ll find that not all lenders are created equal. Traditional banks often have rigid requirements and a lengthy, one-size-fits-all approval process. On the other hand, specialized lenders, like us at Advancery, focus specifically on business funding and understand the unique challenges you face. We can offer more flexible solutions tailored to your industry and revenue cycle. It’s always a good idea to explore options from different types of lenders, but you’ll often find that a partner with experience in your field can provide a much smoother and more supportive experience than a big bank that may not understand the urgency of your equipment needs.
How Long Does It Take to Get Funded?
One of the biggest differences between lenders is how long it takes to get your money. Traditional banks can take weeks, or even months, to approve an equipment loan, leaving you waiting while a critical piece of machinery sits on the lot. This is where alternative lenders really shine. Because we use streamlined processes and focus on your business's actual performance, we can often provide a decision in hours, not weeks. At Advancery, we’re proud to offer same-day approval and can deliver equipment financing within hours, so you can get the tools you need and get back to work without missing a beat.
Typical Funding Timelines
The waiting game is one of the biggest frustrations for business owners seeking financing. While traditional banks can take weeks to process an application and may not deliver funds for up to 10 business days, the landscape has changed dramatically. Modern, specialized lenders have streamlined their processes to match the speed of your business. It’s now common to receive a decision on the same day you apply. This speed is a game-changer, as it means you can secure the equipment you need and put it to work generating revenue almost immediately, avoiding costly project delays and missed opportunities.
How to Get Financed with Imperfect Credit
If your credit score isn't perfect, don't count yourself out. Many business owners face credit hurdles, but there are proven strategies to secure financing. Lenders like Advancery look at the bigger picture of your business's health, not just a three-digit number. Strong monthly revenue is often more important than your credit history. To strengthen your application, be prepared to show consistent cash flow through recent bank statements. You can also consider options like Revenue Based Financing, which is based on your future sales instead of your credit score. The right financial partner will work with you to find a solution that fits your situation.
Understanding Credit Inquiries
One of the biggest worries when applying for financing is the dreaded "credit inquiry hit." It’s true that a formal application can result in a hard inquiry, which might temporarily dip your score. However, many modern lenders understand this concern and have built their processes to minimize the impact. They often use a "soft pull" for initial qualification, which doesn’t affect your credit at all. This allows them to assess your eligibility without dinging your score. The hard inquiry typically only happens once you decide to move forward with a specific offer. Don't let the fear of an inquiry stop you from exploring your options, especially if you're trying to get financed with imperfect credit. A transparent partner will be upfront about when and how they check your credit, focusing on your business's overall health rather than just one number.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I actually get the money for my equipment? This really depends on the lender you choose. A traditional bank might take several weeks to process your application, which can feel like an eternity when you have a job lined up. Modern financial partners, however, have built their process for speed. At Advancery, we can often give you an approval the same day you apply and get the funds to you within hours. Our goal is to get that equipment on-site and working for you as fast as possible.
What if my business is new and doesn't have a two-year history? While many lenders see two years of operation as a benchmark for stability, it’s not always a deal-breaker. A good financing partner will look at your business’s complete financial picture. If you have strong and consistent monthly revenue, that can often be more important than how long you’ve been in business. We understand that every company has to start somewhere, so we focus on your current performance and potential for growth.
Does financing cover the entire cost, like taxes and delivery fees? This is a great question because those "soft costs" can add up. In many cases, yes, you can roll expenses like taxes, shipping, and installation fees into your total financing amount. This helps you avoid paying for those extra costs out of pocket and keeps the entire purchase consolidated into one simple monthly payment. It’s always best to confirm this with your lender when you get a quote for the equipment.
Can I finance used equipment, or does it have to be brand new? You can absolutely finance used equipment. In fact, it’s a very smart way to get the machinery you need at a lower cost. Most lenders are happy to finance used assets as long as they are in good working condition and hold their value. This flexibility allows you to find the perfect piece of equipment that fits your specific needs and budget without being limited to only new models.
Is it better to get financing through the equipment dealer or a direct lender? Going through the dealer can seem convenient, but it’s worth exploring your options with a direct lender. A dealer may have a limited number of financing partners they work with, which might not result in the best terms for you. A direct lender who specializes in business funding is focused on building a relationship with you and understanding your company's unique needs. This often leads to more transparent terms and a financing solution that truly supports your long-term success.

Lewis Gersh
Lewis Gersh is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Advancery Business Funding, bringing 25+ years of entrepreneurial experience in fintech and payments technology. He previously founded PebblePost, raising $25M+ and inventing Programmatic Direct Mail, and Metamorphic Ventures, one of the first seed-stage funds focused on payments/marketing technology. Gersh holds a J.D./LL.M. in Intellectual Property Law and is a recognized thought leader in alternative lending and financial innovation.