Funding Walk-In Coolers and Freezers for Food Businesses

Walk-in coolers and freezers are critical for food safety and inventory management—but they’re also among the most expensive investments for restaurants, food trucks, grocery stores, and catering companies. If you’re wondering how to pay for one without crushing your cash flow, here are the best funding options for walk-in coolers and freezers to consider.

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How do I fund a walk-in cooler or freezer for my food business?
You can fund walk-in refrigeration through equipment financing, leasing, SBA loans, or commercial loans with low monthly payments and flexible terms.

Why Walk-In Units Are So Expensive

The cost of a walk-in cooler or freezer depends on size, insulation, and whether it's indoor or outdoor:

• Small unit (6’ x 8’): $6,000 – $9,000

• Medium (8’ x 10’ or 10’ x 12’): $10,000 – $15,000

• Large with installation: $18,000 – $30,000+

Add electrical work, delivery, permits, and installation—and it’s easy to exceed $25,000.

Related: The Best Ways to Lease Restaurant Refrigeration Equipment

Top Funding Options for Walk-In Refrigeration Units

❄️ 1. Equipment Financing

• Finance 100% of the purchase price

• Fixed monthly payments for 2–7 years

• You own the equipment once paid off

• Ideal for long-term storage needs

✅ Pro Tip: You may be able to finance installation and delivery, too.

🔁 2. Leasing Programs

• Lower monthly cost vs. loans

• Option to return or buy at lease end

• Often includes maintenance and warranty

• Great for new restaurants or temporary locations

Related: Leasing vs. Buying: Commercial Dishwashers and Cleaning Equipment

🏦 3. SBA Loans

• SBA 7(a) or Microloan programs

• Long repayment terms (up to 10 years)

• Low interest rates and flexible use of funds

• Good for startups or major expansions

💳 4. Business Term Loans or Lines of Credit

• Use for refrigeration and other upgrades

• Ideal if bundling other kitchen investments

• Quick funding (often in 1–5 days)

• Best for businesses with 1+ year in operation

What Lenders Look For

To qualify for funding, be prepared to share:

• Business license or EIN

• Walk-in unit quote or invoice

• 3–6 months of bank statements or business financials

• Personal and/or business credit score

• Time in business (though startups can qualify)

Example Financing Scenario

Benefits of Financing Over Paying Cash

✅ Preserve working capital for food, staff, and marketing
✅ Break up a large cost into manageable chunks
✅ Get the equipment you need now—not months later
✅ Tax-deductible payments in many cases

Related: Tax Advantages of Equipment Leasing Explained

Summary: 4 Best Ways to Fund Walk-In Coolers and Freezers

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1. Equipment financing

2. Leasing programs

3. SBA loans

4. Business loans or lines of credit

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Food Safe and Your Cash Flow Stable

Reliable cold storage is non-negotiable in the food industry. Whether you run a food truck, café, grocery store, or catering company, funding your walk-in cooler or freezer is a strategic move that protects your product and your bottom line.

Take Action: Get Pre-Approved for Walk-In Equipment Financing

Don’t wait until your current fridge fails.
Explore financing options for walk-in coolers and freezers today—and keep your business cool under pressure.