Factory Upgrade Pack (2026): 12 Costs You Can Bundle Into Equipment Finance (Not Just the Machine)
Factory upgrade equipment finance for manufacturing projects – Switchboard Finance
🏭 manufacturing upgrade checklist · Australia ·
Business Owners Hub · 2026
The machine price is rarely the full spend. The “approval pain” starts when the add-ons land as separate invoices after you’ve already committed. This page shows how to package the upgrade as one approval-ready project under Asset Finance — so cashflow stays predictable.
If you’re still deciding whether to upgrade now or wait, start with: 11 Signs Your Business Is Ready for Asset Finance in 2025. If you’re applying soon, avoid the common traps in: Top 5 Mistakes Business Owners Make When Applying for Equipment Finance.
- You want one “project total” (not 8 separate invoices after approval).
- You want the quote to align with Equipment Finance expectations.
- You want a clean path into Equipment Finance or Low Doc Asset Finance.
The 12-cost bundle checklist
Ask your supplier for a master quote that includes the items below (or clearly attaches sub-quotes). Where possible, keep it supported by a clean Tax Invoice trail.
| # | Cost you can often bundle | Why it matters | What to include on the quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Freight + delivery + unloading | Prevents a funding gap on day one. | Freight line item + site address + unloading method. |
| 2 | Rigging / cranes / forklift hire | Often high-cost and time-critical. | Supplier + dates + scope (“lift + place + secure”). |
| 3 | Installation labour | No install = no output. | Install scope + prerequisites (site-ready list). |
| 4 | Commissioning + calibration | Shows “ready to operate”. | Deliverables / sign-off items. |
| 5 | Electrical upgrades (3-phase, switchboard, cabling) | Common hidden spend that hits cashflow. | Electrician scope + approximate run length (if known). |
| 6 | Concrete slab / anchors / foundations | Site works can delay go-live. | Dimensions + anchor points + trenching (if required). |
| 7 | Safety guarding + compliance add-ons | Reduces “can’t use it yet” delays. | Guarding items + compliance notes (if supplied). |
| 8 | Dust extraction / ventilation / ducting | Operational necessity in many factories. | Scope + specs + install inclusions. |
| 9 | Software licences / control packages | Often required to run the machine. | Modules + term + perpetual vs subscription. |
| 10 | Training + handover | Reduces ramp-up risk. | Hours + attendees + deliverables. |
| 11 | Tooling / fixtures / jigs | Often what makes the upgrade “work”. | Itemised list + compatibility (model/series). |
| 12 | Warranty extensions / service packages | Smoother maintenance story. | Term + inclusions + exclusions summary. |
The 3 approval killers (quick fixes)
- Split paperwork everywhere → request a master quote + attach sub-quotes (so the total is obvious).
- Vague timing (“TBA install”) → add a delivery/install window (even a rough week range).
- Used asset uncertainty → run a quick PPSR workflow before you sign (guide here: PPSR Checks for Asset & Vehicle Finance).
Docs checklist (keep it simple)
You don’t need perfect paperwork — you need a consistent story. Most lenders sanity-check trading using Bank Statements and basic entity details.
- ABN + entity structure (who signs / who guarantees).
- Recent business bank statements (showing trading deposits).
- Supplier quote with the 12-cost bundle (or clearly attached sub-quotes).
- Simple note on GST treatment (no essay required).
If you’re modelling “repair vs replace”, this pairs well with: Repair vs Replace a Production Machine. If you want a speed-first lane, read: Pre-Approved Manufacturing Upgrades.
The fastest approvals come from one clean “project total” — not a machine invoice plus ten surprise add-ons. Bundle the 12 costs, keep the quote tight, and the facility matches the real upgrade.
Start here: Equipment Finance / Low Doc Asset Finance. If you’re buying used, read: Used Machinery Finance for Manufacturing. For general tax guidance, use: ATO.
FAQ
Often, yes — if it’s clearly tied to getting the asset operating and it’s properly scoped on quotes/invoices. To keep the file moving, the pack should be consistent with how the lender runs a Credit Assessment (one total, one purpose, clear supplier scope).
Missing scope and split paperwork: “TBA install”, unclear delivery windows, and multiple suppliers without a master total. Tighten the quote and make sure the identifiers match the paperwork (serials / VIN where relevant).
Usually, yes — it reduces back-and-forth because the total cost, purpose, and paperwork match from the start. That matters even more if the deal needs to be documented as a Secured Loan (clean scope = fewer “please clarify” loops).
It depends on the asset, the profile, and how complete the project quote is. A clean application (and stable Trading History) typically keeps more options open than a messy quote with missing scopes.
Lenders focus more on condition, valuation risk, and supplier clarity — so the quote and identifiers matter more. Expect more attention on paperwork and the structure (for example a Finance Lease) compared to a standard dealer purchase.
Disclaimer: This content is general information only and isn’t financial, legal, or tax advice.
