British Columbia is home to some of Canada’s most diverse industries—from coastal logging operations and mountain-based construction crews to world-class film productions and precision manufacturers. What ties them together? A heavy reliance on specialized equipment.
In 2025, BC businesses are investing in everything from feller bunchers and aerial lifts to cinema cameras and CNC machines. But high purchase costs and uncertain economic cycles have led more owners to ask:
"Can I finance this instead of buying it outright?"
The answer is yes—and in British Columbia, equipment financing is often the smartest way to modernize operations while preserving working capital.
This guide outlines your options, financing structures, and industry-specific trends so you can make the right decision for your business.
Why BC Businesses Are Financing Equipment in 2025
Whether you’re a Kelowna vineyard automating harvest, a Burnaby film studio upgrading RED cameras, or a Prince George logger modernizing your fleet, the logic is the same:
- Equipment is expensive
- Revenue cycles are seasonal or project-based
- Cash flow is tight after years of inflation and supply chain volatility
- Technology is advancing quickly
Financing allows you to acquire the gear you need now—and pay over time while the equipment generates revenue.
Who’s Using Equipment Financing in BC?
1. Forestry & Logging
BC’s interior and coastal forests support thousands of jobs, but harvesting requires specialized machines:
- Feller bunchers, forwarders, delimbers
- Logging trucks and trailers
- Sawmill automation equipment
2. Film & Television Production
BC’s $3 billion film industry is global, and much of it depends on:
- Cinema-grade cameras (ARRI, RED)
- Grip and lighting packages
- Editing suites and audio systems
- Trailers and generators for mobile sets
3. Construction & Trades
Rapid infrastructure growth across the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island fuels demand for:
- Excavators, skid steers, lifts
- Concrete equipment and scaffolding
- Mobile welding and jobsite tools
4. Agriculture & AgTech
From berry farms in the Fraser Valley to Okanagan vineyards:
- Tractors, sprayers, and planters
- Refrigerated storage
- Sorting lines and processing gear
5. Manufacturing & Fabrication
Metal shops, electronics firms, and modular builders across BC are financing:
- CNC machines and lathes
- 3D printers and injection moulders
- Material handling systems
What Equipment Can Be Financed in BC?
Most tangible business-use assets are eligible. This includes:
- New and used equipment
- Private sale equipment (with condition verification)
- Refurbished machines
- Bundled installations and accessories
Here’s a sample of commonly financed categories:
| Equipment Category |
Typical Use in BC |
| Logging Equipment |
Feller bunchers, skidders, loaders |
| Film Production Gear |
Camera kits, audio rigs, trailers |
| Construction Machines |
Excavators, boom lifts, site tools |
| Agricultural Equipment |
Harvesters, sprayers, grape sorters |
| Manufacturing Equipment |
CNCs, plasma cutters, automation gear |
Financing Structures Available to BC Businesses
Equipment Loan
- Fixed monthly payments
- Full ownership from day one
- Ideal for durable assets like trailers or CNCs
Lease-to-Own
- Lower monthly costs
- Option to purchase at lease end
- Popular for tech that evolves (e.g., film or ag-processing equipment)
Operating Lease
- Shorter term
- Return or upgrade equipment after lease
- Used for pilot projects, rentals, or fast-evolving gear
Sale-Leaseback
- Monetize existing owned equipment
- Lease it back to free up cash for expansion
- Useful for loggers, trades, or film crews with paid-off assets
Provincial Incentives and Tax Considerations
While we’re not including grants per your directive, BC businesses should be aware of the Accelerated Investment Incentive (AII), which continues to allow faster depreciation of qualifying equipment.
Benefits:
- Claim a larger Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) deduction in the year of purchase
- Applies to eligible property like machinery, tools, and technology
- Helps reduce net taxable income
You should always consult a tax advisor, but many businesses use financing and combine it with CCA claims to lower taxable income during growth or recovery years.
Case Study: Film Production Company in Vancouver Finances Mobile Set Equipment
Company Type: Commercial production studio with five full-time staff
Scenario: Scaling up to shoot two outdoor campaigns for a national brand—needed mobile equipment fast but didn’t want to strain the cash reserve.
What They Financed:
- 2 production trailers (one for wardrobe, one for editing)
- Portable lighting rig and gimbals
- Quiet-run generator + distro boxes
- Sound and camera gear bundle from local vendor
Structure:
- $148,000 lease-to-own over 48 months
- Vendor paid directly, bundled install/delivery costs
- 90-day deferred payment due to weather-sensitive shoot window
Outcome:
The new gear enabled the company to win a third retainer deal, helping them grow without taking on unplanned debt. They plan to refinance again in 12 months to expand their studio space.
What You’ll Need to Qualify for Equipment Financing in BC
Most businesses can qualify with:
- BC business registration and photo ID
- Credit score of 650+ (but some flexibility exists based on asset value)
- Equipment quote or invoice (from vendor or private seller)
- 12+ months in business preferred, but newer companies may qualify with personal guarantee or down payment
- Monthly revenue of at least $8,000–$10,000
5 Smart Tips for Financing Equipment in British Columbia
- Bundle equipment and accessories – Installation, software, delivery, and attachments can be included in one financing package.
- Buy used from trusted vendors – Certified refurbished gear from BC dealers is often financeable with proper documentation.
- Think seasonally – Forestry, agriculture, and film are seasonal—ask about seasonal or deferred payments.
- Know your equipment’s resale value – Especially important for film or specialty gear that depreciates quickly.
- Work with BC-savvy credit analysts – Regional lenders understand provincial industries and can help secure better terms for your sector.
FAQs: Equipment Financing in British Columbia
Can I finance used equipment from a private seller in BC?
Yes. Most lenders allow private sale financing if you provide a signed bill of sale, serial number, and equipment details. An inspection may be required.
Can I finance gear from a BC-based vendor?
Absolutely. Local vendors often partner with lenders to streamline financing and delivery timelines.
How fast can I get approved?
With all documents in place, approvals in BC can take as little as 24–72 hours.
What industries qualify?
Nearly all: logging, construction, film, trades, manufacturing, foodservice, agriculture, and more.
Do I need a down payment?
Not always. Some lenders offer 0-down structures depending on credit strength and asset type.
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