Current Average Rates in Canada (2025)
Equipment Loan Interest Rates
- For small and medium-sized Canadian businesses, equipment loan rates typically range between 7% and 14% APR depending on credit quality and lender (Mehmi Financial Group, Mehmi Financial Group).
- Breaking it down further based on creditworthiness:
- Strong credit (680+): 8%–11%
- Mid-range credit (620–679): 11%–16%
- Lower credit or newer businesses: 16%–24%
- Alternative or higher-risk lenders: 25%+ (Mehmi Financial Group).
Equipment Lease Rates
- A “good” lease rate generally falls between 5% and 9%, depending on credit, equipment type, and lender risk (SPAR Leasing).
- Typical leasing ranges in Canada span 6% to 16%, varying by borrower and asset (SPAR Leasing).
For businesses with satisfactory credit, lease rates often fall between 7% and 9%, while less competitive lenders or less favorable credit may face rates up to 13% (DBM Accounting).
Factors That Drive Rates
- Credit Score & Business History: Lower risk profiles attract better rates.
- Equipment Type & Age: New and resale-friendly assets pull better terms.
- Loan Term & Structure: Longer terms may raise APR; down payments and residuals help lower it.
- Lender Type: Banks or government-backed lenders often offer lower rates than alternatives.
- Economic Conditions: Rates track with Bank of Canada and prime rate fluctuations (Mehmi Financial Group, Mehmi Financial Group, Mehmi Financial Group, SPAR Leasing).
Tips to Secure a Better Rate
- Boost Your Credit Profile — Show strong financials, pay debts on time, and reduce credit utilization
- Provide Strong Documentation — Clear business statements and projections matter (Mehmi Financial Group)
- Compare Providers — Explore options from banks, government programs, and brokers like Mehmi
- Structure Strategically — Consider down payments, fixed vs. variable rates, or lease terms appropriately (Mehmi Financial Group)
- Use Tools Wisely — Try Mehmi’s Equipment Financing Calculator to model scenarios.
FAQ: Equipment Financing Interest Rates
Q1: What is the average interest rate on equipment financing in Canada?
Q2: How does credit score impact my rate?
Q3: Are lease rates always cheaper than loan rates?
- Not always. Lease rates can be competitive and sometimes even lower than loan rates, depending on structure and credit (CEF).
Q4: Can startups get equipment loans?
- Yes—though expect higher rates unless you can offer collateral, down payments, or strong revenue.
Q5: Do government programs provide better rates?
- Programs like CSBFP can offer competitive rates through participating lenders; it's worth exploring.
Q6: What should I do next?
Final Thoughts
As of 2025 in Canada, equipment loan rates average between 7%–14%, while lease rates typically land between 5%–16%, with most falling in the 7%–13% range. Your actual cost depends on your credit, equipment, and financing strategy. With smart structuring, informed comparison, and tools like the calculator, you can optimize your financing costs and grow confidently.