In sectors like construction, manufacturing, and engineering, the right equipment is critical. Whether it’s upgrading outdated machinery or expanding your operational capacity, having access to the right tools can mean the difference between winning a contract and watching it go elsewhere.
But there's a common hurdle: acquiring high-value equipment often places a heavy strain on cash flow.
That’s where plant and machinery finance comes in. These tailored financial solutions are designed to help businesses invest in essential equipment while preserving working capital - so you can grow without compromise.
Every business has its own unique set of equipment demands—and your finance solution should be just as tailored. Whether you’re a sole trader needing a single digger for a local job, or a large-scale contractor investing in heavy-duty machinery for national infrastructure projects, the right finance solution(s) can make all the difference.
Small to medium enterprises often seek funding for:
Standalone construction or landscaping equipment
Niche manufacturing machinery for specific production stages
Light commercial vehicles and vans
Office systems, IT infrastructure, and furnishings
Larger businesses or established firms may need:
Fleet expansion or vehicle upgrades
End-to-end production line enhancements
Specialist machinery for high-volume or custom operations
Heavy construction equipment for major developments
Charles & Dean have supported over 6,000 individuals and businesses, providing finance solutions across all industries - from small start-ups to large multinational companies.
Hire Purchase lets you spread the cost of equipment over time, with ownership transferring to you once the final payment is made.
Typically Used By: Businesses that ultimately require ownership of the equipment for long-term use.
Key Advantages:
Full ownership at the end of the agreement
Predictable, fixed monthly repayments support budgeting
Finance typically covers up to 90% of the equipment cost
Terms usually range from 12 to 84 months
Potential eligibility for capital allowances (tax relief)
Important Consideration: You're responsible for insurance and maintenance from day one.
With a finance lease, you never actually own the equipment, but you gain full use of it throughout the lease period.
Typically Used By: Businesses that require the latest equipment but do not necessarily need ownership.
Key Advantages:
Often requires no large deposit
Can fund up to 100% of the purchase price
VAT is charged only on each monthly payment
Flexible options at the end of the term to extend, return, or arrange sale
Important Consideration: Verify responsibility for maintenance costs within your specific agreement.
Many businesses are surprised by how extensive the range of equipment eligible for machinery finance can be. At Charles & Dean, we support a wide variety of sectors with tailored finance solutions across the following categories:
Construction Equipment – Excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and more
Manufacturing Machinery – Production lines, processing systems, and plant equipment
Agricultural Machinery – Tractors, harvesters, irrigation systems
Transport & Logistics – Commercial vehicles, HGVs, and specialist transport solutions
Office & IT Equipment – Computer systems, communications technology, office furniture
Specialist Industry Equipment – Including medical devices, laboratory technology, and sector-specific machinery
Charles & Dean specialise across various sectors including construction, transport & logistics, agriculture, and more, ensuring a thorough understanding of each industry's unique requirements.
Construction businesses operate under unique pressures: project-based cash flow, seasonal fluctuations, and the need for high-cost machinery to win and complete contracts. Finance providers offer bespoke solutions to support the sector’s needs.
Commonly Financed Equipment Includes:
Heavy machinery (e.g. excavators, bulldozers)
Lifting equipment (e.g. cranes, telehandlers)
Specialised vehicles (e.g. concrete mixers, dump trucks)
Power and hand tools
Staying competitive in manufacturing means keeping pace with advancing technology, without draining working capital. Equipment finance enables businesses to invest in cutting-edge machinery while preserving cash flow.
Frequently financed items include:
Production machinery
Packaging systems
Quality control technology
Automation and robotics
Farming is seasonal by nature, and finance solutions need to reflect that. Many providers offer flexible payment plans that align with income cycles, making it easier for agricultural businesses to invest in essential equipment.
Typically financed agricultural assets include:
Tractors and combine harvesters
Specialised crop machinery
Livestock housing and handling systems
Irrigation and water management equipment
Seasonal Payment Adjustments – Repayment plans that mirror your income patterns, ensuring affordability year-round
Payment Holidays – Options to pause payments during quieter trading periods
Variable Payment Schedules – Customised schedules that match your operational and revenue cycles
Balloon Payments – A one-off lump sum at the end of the term to reduce monthly payments, leveraging the asset’s residual value
During Off-Peak (e.g. Winter):
Schedule essential equipment maintenance
Invest in staff training and development
Focus on marketing and business development initiatives
Ahead of Peak Season:
Ensure equipment availability and reliability
Maximise capacity and operational efficiency
Secure funding to capitalise on growth opportunities
Making informed decisions about equipment finance can offer valuable tax advantages.
Leasing – VAT is spread across monthly payments, helping with cash flow
Outright Purchase – VAT is paid in full upfront
Lease Payments – Can be claimed against corporation tax
Capital Allowances – Available for purchased equipment under certain conditions
Important Note: Always consult a qualified accountant or tax professional regarding your specific circumstances.
What are your long-term goals?
Do you need to own the equipment, or is access sufficient?
How long will it be in use?
Are regular upgrades needed?
Is your business on a growth trajectory?
Is your credit history strong?
Is cash flow stable?
Do you have existing financial commitments?
Can you provide security if required?
How critical is the equipment to operations?
Who maintains it?
Will it need frequent upgrades?
Extensive Market Access – Brokers have access to a wide lender panel
Industry Insight – They understand sector-specific needs
Time-Saving Expertise – Handle paperwork and process management
Stronger Negotiating Power – Secure better rates and terms
At Charles & Dean, we’re fully independent and negotiate with multiple lenders to get the best deal for you.
Initial Consultation – We learn your goals and finance needs
Tailored Options Review – We present and compare suitable options
Application Submission – We guide you through and submit the paperwork
Lender Review – Most applications are reviewed within 24–48 hours
Outcome & Offer – We clearly communicate the decision
Finalise the Agreement – Paperwork is handled and terms confirmed
Equipment Coordination – We liaise with your supplier for delivery and setup
To qualify for machinery finance in the UK, most lenders look for:
A minimum trading history of 24 months
A positive credit profile
Annual turnover of at least £100,000
UK business registration
Equipment used for commercial purposes
Even if you're newly established or have imperfect credit, specialist lenders may be available.
Access to advanced machinery
Reduced downtime
Increased project capacity
Preserve working capital
Fixed monthly repayments
Potential tax relief
Gain a competitive edge
Scalable growth without heavy upfront investment
Improved cash flow flexibility
Q: What types of plant machinery can be financed?
A: Almost all business equipment, from hand tools to industrial machinery.
Q: How quickly can funding be arranged?
A: Usually within 24-48 hours for standard applications.
Q: What’s the difference between asset finance and a business loan?
A: Asset finance is secured against the equipment; business loans may not be.
Q: Can both new and used equipment be financed?
A: Yes, though terms may vary based on condition and type.
Q: What happens at the end of a finance lease?
A: You may return, extend, or arrange a sale - possibly purchasing the item.
Assess Requirements -Define your equipment needs and budget
Prepare Documents - Financial statements, credit info, and supplier quotes
Seek Guidance - Speak with a C&D Finance Specialist and your accountant
Compare Options - Assess terms, rates, and long-term impact
Tailored Support – Every solution is business-specific
Market Access – Broad panel of specialist lenders
Speed – Fast decisions within 24–48 hours
Full Guidance – Support from enquiry to final payment
Free Consultations – No-obligation, expert advice
Take the first step:
Book a consultation – Schedule online
Speak to us – Call 01780 763836 (Stamford) or 020 3869 4600 (London)
Visit us – Meet the team at our Stamford or London offices
Don’t let equipment costs hold your business back.
Speak with Charles & Dean today and power your business with the right finance solution.