Why equipment finance matters now

Upgrading or replacing business equipment is one of the fastest ways to increase efficiency, reduce downtime and protect margins — yet many firms delay investment because of cashflow pressure. Equipment finance spreads the cost, helping you keep working capital free for day-to-day running while benefiting from the assets you need.

Whether it’s new production machinery, a fleet of vans, specialist medical devices or IT hardware, the right finance lets you act quickly when opportunities or supply windows arise. If you want to see how much you might be eligible for, take our short enquiry — it’s a Free Eligibility Check and takes less than two minutes. Get Quote Now

What is equipment finance?

Equipment finance covers several ways to fund the purchase, lease or refinance of business assets. Unlike general working capital loans, equipment finance is structured around the asset being purchased and can be tailored so you either own the asset at the end of the term or return it.

Common arrangements include:

• Hire Purchase — pay monthly; ownership transfers after final payment.
• Finance Lease — long-term lease where the lessor retains ownership; often used for higher-cost assets.
• Operating Lease — similar to renting; suitable where you don’t want to own the asset.
• Asset Refinance — release cash from equipment you already own.

Fast Business Loans does not provide finance itself. Instead we match your enquiry to brokers and lenders experienced in equipment and asset finance who can advise on the best structure for your purchase.

Equipment finance options we can connect you with

Hire Purchase

Best for businesses that want to own equipment at the end. Typical terms: 1–5 years. May require a deposit and will appear on your balance sheet.

Finance Lease

Good for higher-value assets where the lender retains ownership during the term. Terms can vary and VAT handling differs from hire purchase.

Operating Lease

Shorter-term leasing where you return the asset at the end — ideal for technology or rapidly depreciating equipment.

Asset Refinance

Use the value of existing equipment to raise working capital — useful for improving cashflow without taking on new assets.

Short-term bridging for equipment

Occasional short-term facilities are available to bridge supply gaps or secure urgent supplier discounts.

Comparison at a glance

Tell us what you’re buying and we’ll shortlist the right lenders or brokers. Free Eligibility Check

Who we help: industries & scenarios

Our panel includes brokers and lenders who understand specialist sectors. Examples of clients we match include:

• Manufacturing & engineering: CNC machines, presses, production lines.
• Healthcare & dental: Imaging equipment, dental chairs, clinical kit.
• Hospitality & catering: Ovens, refrigeration, fit-out kit.
• Agriculture: Tractors, harvesters, grain handling equipment.
• Construction & trades: Plant, diggers, scaffolding.
• Technology & IT: Servers, workstations, large-scale IT rollouts.

Running a business in one of these sectors? Get matched quickly with lenders who know your market. Get Quote Now

Eligibility snapshot & what lenders look for

Eligibility varies by lender, but common factors include:

• Trading history and company structure (limited companies preferred).
• Annual turnover and cashflow — sufficient to service repayments.
• Financial accounts or management accounts for recent periods.
• Supplier quotes or invoices for the equipment to be financed.
• Director credit profiles — some lenders may request guarantees.

Many lenders on our panel consider deals from around £10,000 upwards. Exact requirement and affordability checks are set by the lender you deal with — our role is to introduce you to specialists who can complete a full assessment.

How Fast Business Loans’ matching service works

1. Complete a short enquiry (under 2 minutes)

Tell us a few details about your company, the asset, the cost and how quickly you need funding. Start Your Free Equipment Finance Match — Free Eligibility Check

2. We screen & match

We use your sector, asset type and finance need to select brokers or lenders who specialise in that area — this reduces wasted calls and increases the chance of a relevant quote.

3. You hear from matched partners

Selected brokers/lenders contact you to confirm details, run affordability checks and present options. This typically happens within hours to a few working days depending on complexity.

4. Compare offers & decide

Review proposals, ask questions about total cost, terms and ownership, then instruct the lender or broker you prefer. There’s no obligation to accept any offer.

Ready to begin? Get Quote Now

Costs, terms & responsible borrowing considerations

Rates and fees vary by lender and depend on credit status, asset type and term. Indicative factors affecting cost:

• Term length and residual value.
• Deposit or initial rental amount.
• Whether the asset is new or used (age can affect pricing).
• Additional fees: arrangement, documentation, valuations, early settlement charges.

Questions to ask a broker or lender:

• What is the total amount payable over the term?
• Is VAT payable up-front or on each rental/instalment?
• Are there penalties for early repayment?
• Who is responsible for maintenance and insurance?

We encourage businesses to consider affordability and independent advice where appropriate. If you’re ready to get matched, complete a Free Eligibility Check — Get Quote Now

Case snapshots (anonymous)

Manufacturing SME — £150,000 CNC machinery

Challenge: outdated kit causing production delays. Solution: matched with a broker who arranged a 4-year hire purchase with a modest deposit. Outcome: new capacity within 6 weeks and improved margins.

Café chain — £35,000 catering equipment

Challenge: seasonal cashflow limits. Solution: operating lease spread cost and allowed upgrades without capital outlay. Outcome: refreshed equipment and consistent service through peak season.

Want a similar result? Get Quote Now

Frequently asked questions: equipment finance

Can I finance second-hand equipment?

Yes. Many lenders will finance used kit subject to age and condition. Your matched broker will advise what’s acceptable for your particular asset.

What’s the difference between hire purchase and leasing?

Hire purchase normally leads to ownership after the final payment. Leasing often means you return the asset at term end or pay a residual to purchase — the accounting and VAT treatment differs.

How quickly can funding be released?

Timelines vary by lender, asset and paperwork. Simple deals can complete in days; complex or high-value transactions may take several weeks.

Will a director guarantee be required?

Some lenders ask for personal guarantees or additional security, particularly for newer businesses or larger facilities. Your matched broker will clarify this early in discussions.

Does enquiring affect my credit score?

No. Submitting an enquiry through Fast Business Loans does not impact your credit file. Lenders may carry out credit checks later if you progress with an application.

Can I refinance equipment I already own?

Yes — asset refinance can release cash tied up in existing equipment. Terms depend on asset age and market value.

Ready to explore your options?

Fast Business Loans connects your business to brokers and lenders who specialise in equipment finance so you can compare offers and move quickly. Our service is free and there’s no obligation to proceed once matched.

Start Your Free Equipment Finance Match — Get Quote Now

Submitting an enquiry allows us to share your details with selected partners so they can contact you about your finance request. Fast Business Loans is an introducer, not a lender or financial adviser. Exact eligibility, pricing and terms are set by the lender or broker you choose to deal with.

Important information & disclosure

Fast Business Loans acts as an introducer only and does not lend money or provide regulated financial advice. We connect businesses with lenders and brokers who can provide finance. Eligibility, rates and terms are determined by the finance provider. Loan and lease facilities are typically available from approximately £10,000 upwards. Content current at time of publication; please contact us or your matched broker for up-to-date information.