Crestmont Capital Blog

Plastic Injection Molding Equipment Financing & Leasing: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Mariela Merino | November 12, 2024

Plastic injection molding equipment is crucial for manufacturing businesses involved in creating a wide range of plastic products. However, the high cost of these machines can be a challenge for many companies, especially those looking to expand or upgrade their production capabilities. Financing and leasing options for plastic injection molding equipment allow businesses to access essential technology without a significant upfront expense, making it easier to scale operations and remain competitive. Here’s an in-depth look at how financing and leasing can benefit your business.

Why Finance or Lease Plastic Injection Molding Equipment?

Purchasing plastic injection molding equipment can require a substantial investment, and financing or leasing provides a way to acquire these machines without a large cash outlay. Here are some advantages:

  1. Preserve Cash Flow: Financing or leasing helps businesses avoid upfront capital strain, preserving cash for other operational needs.
  2. Access to Advanced Equipment: With financing or leasing, companies can afford the latest technology, improving productivity and efficiency.
  3. Predictable Monthly Payments: Fixed payments facilitate better financial planning and budget management.
  4. Potential Tax Benefits: Leasing payments are often tax-deductible as business expenses, and financed equipment may qualify for depreciation deductions.
  5. Reduced Obsolescence: Leasing allows for easier upgrades, ensuring that businesses use the most up-to-date equipment.

Types of Plastic Injection Molding Equipment Eligible for Financing & Leasing

  1. Hydraulic Injection Molding Machines:

    • Durable and suitable for heavy-duty applications, hydraulic machines are widely used and known for their robust performance.
  2. Electric Injection Molding Machines:

    • These machines offer precise control and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for businesses focusing on sustainability.
  3. Hybrid Injection Molding Machines:

    • Combining electric and hydraulic components, hybrids offer energy efficiency with high power, ideal for diverse manufacturing needs.
  4. Vertical Injection Molding Machines:

    • Ideal for insert molding applications, vertical machines are efficient for production processes that require over-molding or multi-material capabilities.
  5. Micro and Mini Injection Molding Machines:

    • Perfect for small, intricate parts, these machines are widely used in industries requiring detailed plastic components, such as medical or electronic device manufacturing.
  6. Multi-Component Injection Molding Machines:

    • Used for creating products with multiple colors or materials, multi-component machines are essential for high-complexity applications.

Financing vs. Leasing Plastic Injection Molding Equipment: Key Differences

Financing Plastic Injection Molding Equipment

  • What It Is: Financing is similar to taking out a loan to buy the equipment outright. The business makes monthly payments over a set term until it owns the equipment.
  • Who It’s Best For: Businesses looking for long-term ownership and intending to use the equipment for an extended period.
  • Advantages:
    • Full ownership after the loan term ends.
    • Tax benefits, often including depreciation.
    • Fixed monthly payments for easier budgeting.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Higher upfront costs and long-term commitment.
    • Maintenance and repair responsibilities fall on the owner.
    • Potential obsolescence if the equipment becomes outdated.

Leasing Plastic Injection Molding Equipment

  • What It Is: Leasing allows a company to use the equipment for a specified period without owning it. At the lease term’s end, the business can renew the lease, purchase the equipment, or return it.
  • Who It’s Best For: Businesses needing flexibility, lower upfront costs, and frequent access to the latest technology.
  • Advantages:
    • Lower monthly payments than financing.
    • Opportunity to upgrade to the latest equipment regularly.
    • Reduced risk of obsolescence.
  • Disadvantages:
    • No ownership unless a buyout option is exercised.
    • Can result in higher long-term costs if leases are continuously renewed.

Types of Leasing Options for Plastic Injection Molding Equipment

  1. Operating Lease:

    • A short-term lease without ownership intent. Ideal for businesses that require regular upgrades.
  2. Capital Lease:

    • A long-term lease designed to transfer ownership at the end of the lease term, making it a hybrid between leasing and financing.
  3. Fair Market Value (FMV) Lease:

    • Allows the option to buy the equipment at its fair market value at the end of the lease term or return it, offering flexibility as business needs evolve.
  4. $1 Buyout Lease:

    • The business owns the equipment for a nominal fee at the lease end, suitable for companies that intend to keep the equipment.

Steps to Secure Plastic Injection Molding Equipment Financing or Leasing

  1. Assess Your Business Needs:

    • Determine the specific type and capacity of injection molding machine that best meets your production requirements.
  2. Set a Budget:

    • Outline an affordable monthly payment range based on your cash flow and production goals. Leasing often offers more manageable monthly costs than financing.
  3. Compare Lenders or Lessors:

    • Seek financing providers with expertise in industrial and manufacturing equipment, comparing terms, interest rates, and service.
  4. Prepare Financial Documents:

    • Lenders and lessors typically require documentation of cash flow, credit history, tax returns, and an explanation of how the equipment will add value to the business.
  5. Submit Your Application:

    • Provide complete details about the equipment and explain how it supports your business’s expansion or production goals.
  6. Review the Terms:

    • Carefully examine the contract for payment terms, maintenance obligations, and options at the end of the term, ensuring they align with your business strategy.

Benefits of Financing & Leasing Plastic Injection Molding Equipment

  1. Preserve Working Capital: By financing or leasing, businesses can keep capital for other essential expenses like staffing, R&D, and inventory.
  2. Increased Access to Advanced Technology: Financing or leasing enables companies to afford premium equipment that improves efficiency and production capacity.
  3. Predictable Budgeting: Fixed monthly payments help businesses maintain steady cash flow and plan for future growth.
  4. Tax Benefits: Lease payments may be deductible, and financed equipment often qualifies for depreciation deductions, improving cash flow.
  5. Reduced Obsolescence Risk: Leasing options make it easier to upgrade to the latest technology, ensuring efficiency in an ever-evolving industry.

Conclusion

Financing or leasing plastic injection molding equipment provides manufacturing companies with access to essential technology without tying up capital in a significant purchase. By assessing business needs, exploring providers, and understanding available financing and leasing terms, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your operational and financial goals.