Farm equipment financing

We rely on farms to provide half the food we eat. To keep our shopping baskets full, farmers must squeeze maximum production from every acre that they manage.

Automation is the best answer to this challenge, but agricultural machines, technology and plant are not cheap. How can Australian farms obtain the equipment they need to grow when margins are shrinking, and farm finances are under heavy pressure? Step forward Farm Equipment Financing – special plant and machinery loans to help farmers buy the equipment they need without increasing strain on cashflow.

Read on to discover more about Farm Equipment Financing and how it puts farmers in the driving seat.

Equipment finance: the catalyst for growth

Ever since the first steam traction engines arrived on farms, mechanical invention has expanded farm productivity, with more output per acre year on year. Modern farms are now unrecognisable from the farms of 100 years ago. They’re bigger, more productive, and grow a greater diversity of crops and animals. 

Unfortunately, the need for continual growth impacts farm finances. Despite record food demand, many farmers are receiving less for their production as margins continue to dwindle. Buying the necessary farm machinery, plant, and technology to stay competitive is essential, but further strain on cashflow must be avoided. This is where agricultural equipment finance makes sense. Borrow to buy the plant and machinery to keep your farm on the cutting edge. Pay for the equipment with the crops and animals you grow with the equipment.

What types of agricultural equipment finance are available?

  • Typical farm equipment finance includes:

    A form of hire purchase to pay for new plant and machinery. Use the purchased item while you pay for it. You own the equipment at the end of the term. The asset acts as security for the loan.

    Similar to above, except the loan is a long-term hire, with the equipment going back to the lender at the end of the term. Because you are not buying the equipment, leasing usually means you pay less per month. Once again, the asset acts as security for the loan.

    Technically, this is not an agricultural equipment loan, but a development loan may be used to pay for new construction or re-development of existing farm structures and the equipment they need to make them function. Ideal for silos, grain sheds, feed stores, cattle shelters, chicken sheds, barns and crop storage sheds. May require added security.

    For when you wish to pay for your equipment now, but do not want to increase strain on cashflow. Cover almost any day-to-day farm expense. Pay for seed, supplies and services, distribution costs, maintenance expenditures and more. May be obtained with or without security.

How can agricultural equipment finance help your farm?

Farm equipment financing is designed to work with the unique finances of the Australian farming industry. Loan schedules and payment plans may be arranged to suit the farm’s cashflow, easing the strain on funds going out when seasonal income is slow. Use the latest and most efficient equipment to grow production, counter labour shortages, diversify your output, increase your profits. 

How do I apply for farm equipment financing?

Finding the right agricultural equipment financing for your farm starts here. Contact Swoop to discuss your needs and to discover which loan works best for the unique circumstances of your farm.

What documents do I need?

To secure agricultural equipment financing you will usually be asked for:

  • Last 2 – 3 years accounts and income statements for the business.
  • Balance sheet showing current debt and assets.
  • Cashflow forecast.
  • Agreements with major customers – such as supermarkets.

Lenders will also carry out standard credit and security checks.

How fast can I get a loan for equipment?

The time it takes to get a loan for equipment depends on various factors, including the lender’s processes, your creditworthiness, and the complexity of the loan request.

Some lenders offer quick approval processes and funding within a few days, particularly for smaller loan amounts or borrowers with strong credit histories. However, for larger loan amounts or if additional documentation or collateral is required, the process may take longer.

It’s essential to gather all necessary documentation, such as financial statements and equipment specifications, and work closely with the lender to make process faster.

What are the benefits of farm equipment financing?

Farm equipment financing offers several benefits for agricultural businesses, which includes:

  • Buying necessary equipment without a large upfront payment, protecting working capital for other expenses.
  • Spreads equipment costs over time, reducing financial strain on the farm.
  • Flexible repayment terms and competitive interest rates are often available, accommodating different budgets and cash flows.
  • Staying competitive by accessing the latest equipment and technology.
  • Updated equipment and technology can improve productivity, efficiency, and overall farm operations.

Farm equipment financing provides farmers with the means to invest in essential machinery and equipment while maintaining financial stability and sustainability for their operations.

How do I find the best deals?

Agricultural equipment finance is a niche area, with different rules of application. Borrowers seeking this type of loan may find themselves forever searching and making applications to lender after lender. The delays this can create could harm your farm’s ability to meet your customers’ needs. Instead, working with a broker, who can access farm equipment loans from a wide range of lenders is a better way to go. No more cold calls and endless demands for information. Simply tell us what you need  and leave the rest to us.

Get started with Swoop

Automate your way to success. Farm now, pay later. Get the best rate, the best terms and the right agricultural equipment financing for your needs. Contact Swoop today.

Written by

Chris Godfrey

Chris is a freelance copywriter and content creator. He has been active in the marketing, advertising, and publishing industries for more than twenty-five years. Writing for Barclays Bank, Metro Bank, Wells Fargo, ABN Amro, Quidco, Legal and General, Inshur Zego, AIG, Met Life, State Farm, Direct Line, insurers and pension funds, his words have appeared online and in print to inform, entertain and explain the complex world of consumer and business finance and insurance.

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