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How to Lease Canning Lines for Your Craft Brewery
As the craft beer market grows, more breweries are shifting to canning lines to meet demand, improve shelf life, and expand distribution. However, purchasing a canning line outright can cost anywhere from $50,000 to over $200,000, making leasing an attractive alternative.
This guide explains how to lease canning lines, the benefits of leasing, and what to consider before signing an agreement.
Why Leasing a Canning Line Makes Sense
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Lower Upfront Cost – Avoid tying up large amounts of capital.
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Preserve Cash Flow – Keep funds available for raw materials, staff, and marketing.
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Stay Flexible – Upgrade to newer, faster lines as technology improves.
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Tax Advantages – Lease payments may be deductible as a business expense.
Types of Brewery Canning Lines
| Type | Capacity | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Canning Systems | 5–10 CPM (cans per minute) | Small breweries or pilot batches |
| Semi-Automatic Systems | 15–35 CPM | Growing microbreweries |
| Fully Automated Lines | 40+ CPM | Large-scale operations |
Steps to Leasing a Canning Line
1. Assess Your Production Needs
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Determine your current and projected canning volume.
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Consider space, power, and staffing requirements.
2. Compare Leasing Options
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Operating Lease
– Lower payments, no ownership, easy to upgrade. -
Finance Lease – Higher payments, but you own the equipment at the end.
3. Get Multiple Quotes
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Compare costs from both equipment manufacturers and third-party leasing companies.
4. Review Terms Carefully
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Check for early termination fees, maintenance responsibilities, and buyout options.
5. Plan for Installation & Training
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Some leases include setup and operator training—ask before signing.
Typical Lease Terms for Canning Lines
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Length: 36–72 months
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Monthly Payments: $1,000–$5,000+ depending on equipment size
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Buyout Options: Fair Market Value (FMV) or $1 buyout at lease end
Pro Tips for Leasing Success
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Choose a Scalable Model – Pick a line that can be upgraded or expanded.
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Factor in Maintenance Costs – Make sure your lease covers essential servicing.
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Negotiate Delivery & Setup – Include these costs in your financing package.
Final Thoughts
Leasing a canning line is a smart move for breweries wanting to expand without a massive upfront investment. With the right lease structure, you can improve production efficiency, preserve cash flow, and position your brewery for growth.
