Equipment finance lets a business buy or use a vehicle, truck, machine or other asset without paying the full price upfront. This guide covers the main structures, how finance works for different assets and buyers, what to compare, and what lenders ask for. Each section links to a detailed guide.
loan-o is a Brisbane finance broker based in Milton. We arrange equipment finance for businesses across South East Queensland and beyond, comparing options from a panel of 50+ bank and non-bank lenders. This guide is general information, so check the tax and legal side with your accountant.
1. Choose the structure
The structure decides who owns the asset, how repayments work and what happens at the end. Start with these.
- How does a chattel mortgage work? The step-by-step explainer, including ownership, deposit and balloon.
- Chattel mortgage vs lease When each one tends to suit a business.
- Novated lease vs chattel mortgage For employees weighing a novated lease against a business loan.
- What is a balloon or residual payment? How a lump sum at the end changes your repayments.
2. Finance by asset type
Lenders look at the asset as well as the borrower. These guides cover how finance works for common Queensland assets.
- Truck finance and cash flow in Queensland
- Tipper truck finance in Queensland
- Excavator and earthmoving equipment finance
- Plant and machinery finance in Brisbane
- Farm equipment finance in Queensland
- Financing an electric vehicle for your business
- Financing a used vehicle or equipment
3. Finance for your situation
- Equipment finance for sole traders
- Getting finance ready as a new business
- Business finance with a poor credit history
- Should you refinance a vehicle or equipment loan?
- A settled example: two facilities became one repayment
4. Compare cost and check the tax side
The repayment is only part of the cost. Compare fees, the term and any balloon across offers, and ask your accountant how the purchase is treated for tax.
- How to compare the total cost of business finance
- What is a comparison rate?
- Instant asset write-off and equipment finance
- GST, depreciation and the car limit
- Finance calculator
5. Get ready to apply
- What documents do you need to finance a truck or work ute?
- What is an equipment finance broker?
- How much can my business borrow?
- Three questions to ask your broker
6. Guides by industry
- Construction and earthmoving finance in Queensland
- Transport and trucking finance in Queensland
- Agricultural and farm finance in Queensland
Ready to talk through your own situation? See our equipment finance page or start a free finance check with no credit check to enquire.
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Finance is subject to lender approval, lending criteria, terms, conditions, fees and charges. The information in this article is general and does not take into account your personal or business needs. It should not be treated as personal financial, tax, legal or credit advice.
Last reviewed: 22 October 2026. This content provides general information only. It should not be treated as personal financial, tax, legal or credit advice.
Frequently asked questions.
Got a question about your own situation? Ask a specialist →
Equipment finance is a loan or lease used to buy or use vehicles, trucks, machinery and other equipment for a business. The asset usually acts as security for the lender. The structure you choose affects ownership, repayments and how the cost is treated for tax.
A chattel mortgage is a common choice for businesses that want to own the asset from day one. Leases and hire purchase suit different situations. The right structure depends on the asset, how long you will keep it, your cash flow and your tax position, so check the tax side with your accountant.
Often yes, but lenders look at your trading history, credit file, the asset and any deposit. A newer ABN or a weaker credit file can mean fewer options or different terms. A broker can compare lenders that suit your situation.
Yes, many lenders will finance used assets. Expect checks on age, condition and ownership, and for private sales, an inspection and a PPSR search. Our guide to financing a used vehicle or equipment covers what to expect.
It varies by lender and asset. Typically you will be asked about your business and ABN, trading history, the asset and supplier, and your financial position. Having your documents ready speeds things up.
Financing equipment? Ask a loan-o specialist first.
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