Surveying equipment finance offers tailored funding solutions to help businesses and professionals in the surveying industry acquire the specialised tools and technology they need. This type of financing supports accurate land measurement, construction planning, and mapping by enabling access to advanced equipment without the burden of large upfront costs. It allows organisations to stay current with evolving technology while preserving cash flow and maintaining operational efficiency.
Common Financing Options for Surveying Equipment
Rental / Operating Lease
Rental payments are made to lessor with flexible options at the end of term such as continue to rent, return, upgrade or purchase.
Finance Lease
Long-term, often with an option to purchase at the end.
Chattel Mortgage
Allows ownership of the equipment after making regular payments over an agreed period.
Managed Service
This facility generally includes the equipment and servicing in one regular payment.
Business Line of Credit
A revolving credit limit that can be used as needed for equipment purchases.
Vendor Financing
Some equipment manufacturers or suppliers offer financing directly via companies like Finance@work, which can include favorable terms.
Benefits of Surveying Equipment Finance
- Preservation of Capital: Financing allows businesses to acquire high-cost equipment without significant upfront investments, preserving cash flow for other business operations.
- Tax Benefits: Depending on the financing structure, payments may be tax-deductible, and some equipment may qualify for accelerated depreciation.
- Access to Latest Technology: Surveying equipment often requires the latest technology for accuracy and efficiency. Leasing options allow businesses to upgrade regularly without large capital outlays.
- Cash Flow Management: Spreading the cost of equipment over time with predictable payments helps manage cash flow more effectively.
Considerations
- Interest Rates and Fees: It’s important to evaluate the total cost of financing, including interest rates, fees, and any other associated costs.
- Term Length: The financing term should match the expected useful life of the equipment and the business’s cash flow cycle.
- Maintenance and Calibration: Surveying equipment often requires regular maintenance and calibration. Some financing agreements may include these services, which can be a valuable addition.
- Residual Value: If considering a lease, understand the residual value of the equipment at the end of the term and any purchase options.
Types of Surveying equipment
- Total stations
- GPS systems
- GNSS systems
- Field controllers
- Survey-grade drones (UAVs)
- Laser scanners
- 3D scanning equipment
- Laser levels
- Robotic total stations
- Digital theodolites
- Auto levels
- Data collectors
- GIS mapping equipment
- Reflectors and prisms
- Survey software and processing tools