News RSS Feed

Premier Lender to the Food Processing and Packaging Industries

2011-08-12T00:00:00-04:00

Connext Financial, LLC is the premier equipment lender dedicated to the Food Processing and Packaging industries. With decades of staff experience, Connext is built on a solid foundation of excellent service and in-depth knowledge of your industry throughout North America. We know that no two companies are alike…and neither are their financing or leasing needs. Through our consultative approach, we craft a finance solution to meet each customer’s specific needs. We have built many long-standing manufacturer relationships based on dependability, trust, and responsiveness.

100% Equipment Financing

2011-12-01T00:00:00-05:00

Have you ever gone to purchase a piece of equipment, and after the installation is complete you realize the piece of equipment you purchased ended up costing you 15% more? The problem you face is that your banker or funding source only provided equipment financing for the initial machine purchase. Now you’re in a real bind, as you are already strapped for cash, and have to come up with 15% more cash to finish the installation.

At Connext, our equipment Finance Experts understand this dilemma and the associated business issue it creates. That’s why we’ve created 100% equipment financing. This option of equipment financing covers the entire equipment purchase including:

Machine
Installation
Rigging
Delivery

By allowing for the complete machine and all associated needs to be financed, you are able to keep your cash reserves and build an equipment financing structure that meets your individual cash flow needs. Zero money down when financing a machine is one thing. Zero money down when financing a machine along with rigging, installation and delivery – that’s something your business needs, which is why the Connext equipment Finance Experts have the option available.

If your business is in need of 100% equipment financing, or other financing options, contact our Finance Experts to build the best equipment financing solution for you.

Equipment Financing Payment Options

2012-01-04T00:00:00-05:00

There are many payment options available when it comes to equipment financing. Knowing the options available is one thing, but knowing which one is the best choice takes industry knowledge, finance experience and an understanding of your specific business.

That’s where Connext comes in. Connext equipment Finance Experts work with you to understand your business needs, and then work on the equipment lease and associated payment structure. It’s by first realizing the business needs, that Connext is then able to discuss with you the various payment options for an equipment lease or equipment financing and make the appropriate choice. Frequently used and available payment options that Connext offers are as follows.

Payment Options

First payment deferments – Allows the individual who is financing equipment to not pay, or defer, the first payment. This is helpful in a situation where cash is tight in the short term.
Skip, Step, Seasonal. Monthly, Quarterly, Semi-Annual & Annual Payments – Allows payment structure to follow your business. Works well with seasonal businesses leasing equipment, or those with staggered or inconsistent revenue streams.
Direct debit payments – Allows for automatic payments, lessening the administrative burden.
Early Termination and Buy-out Options – Allows for flexibility down the road. Useful if cash needs are unknown in the future.
FMV Purchase Options with and without Not-to-Exceed Caps – Allows for risk reduction for a business and allows the company to purchase the equipment.

To better understand which payment structure is right for your equipment lease or finance agreement, contact a Connext equipment Finance Expert.

Connext and Graphic Arts Capital Merger

2012-01-18T00:00:00-05:00

Why a Connext Finance Expert Is Unique

2011-08-16T00:00:00-04:00

We talk a lot about our Connext Finance Experts because we believe they’re unique. Unique because they offer customer service from the perspective of an industry insider. They each have an oasis of knowledge specific to each industry that helps them intuitively understand the needs of their clients and the complexities of their businesses. Whether clients are looking to buy and need equipment financing, or are in a position for an equipment lease, our Finance Experts work with them through to the end. It’s that knowledge that also enables them to ask the right questions and offer suggestions that can help bring insight.

Building a partnership is easier when the other person truly understands your business inside and out. Our Connext Finance Experts help lead you through the process of an equipment lease by making sure you know exactly where you are at all times. You don’t have to guess what stage of the process you are in or wonder what is next. Also, our Connext Finance Experts keep your business needs in mind throughout every stage of the process. They make sure those needs influence every decision when moving forward so you don’t have to worry about the type of impact equipment financing will have on your business.

Along the process, our Connext Finance Experts will keep you updated when developments happen on your deal because we believe transparency is an important aspect when building a strong partnership. We are here to lead you through the equipment lease process and offer insight while keeping your business needs top of mind and serving you through exceptional customer service. That’s the Connext Service Promise.

Which Dealer Program Is Right for You?

2011-08-19T00:00:00-04:00

Here at Connext, we offer two unique options for dealers. The first is our Dealer Referral Program which is great for our clients who may not receive a lot of requests for equipment leasing or equipment financing but who still need a partner who will work with them to make the process smooth and ensure confidence for their customers. We have a dedicated account executive from our Connext Finance Expert team for each of our Dealer Referral Program clients so we can build a strong relationship that caters to the specific needs of each business.

Our second dealer option is the Integrated Referral Program. Like the Dealer Referral Program, this program includes the service and attention our clients expect. However, it’s customized to fit their individual needs so that they can continue to offer unparalleled equipment financing and equipment leasing options for their customers. With the Connext Integrated Referral Program, clients get access to our Connext Online e-commerce marketing tool. It’s a robust tool which enables 24/7 access, online credit application submission, application status, a payment calculator, dynamic online proposal templates, a permanent database for quotes and records of sale, and private label lease documents. With features like that, it’s hard to pass up.

If you’re a dealer who’s interested in learning more about our two unique dealer programs for equipment financing and equipment leasing, contact us today. We’ll partner with you to create the program that best fits your needs

Equipment Finance Available for Machine Tools

2011-08-22T00:00:00-04:00

Wanting to buy equipment from your machine tool manufacturer, but need a better way to finance it? Look no further.

At Connext, equipment finance is what we do. Not only do we have decades of experience in the machine tool industry and relationships that stretch from coast to coast – we also keep you and your goals at the helm of all decisions. We work with business leaders to help them obtain their goals by getting the best equipment finance for the terms that best match their business needs.

Connext offers equipment financing for a variety of machine tool brands. Many of the brands they finance offer a variety of machine tools including: Turning Center, 5-axis Vertical Machining Center, Horizontal Machining Center, Boring Machine and Milling and Lathe Machines. In each category of machine tool, there are still more options such as high speed, high strength, movable column, compact and high accuracy. Equipment finance is available for all varieties of machines offered. The Connext team is familiar with nearly all machine tool types and is able to help you through any equipment finance questions, no matter how simple or complex.

Just as there are important questions to answer when selecting the right machine, there are the same important questions to answer when determining the correct equipment finance. Connext finance experts know the equipment, know the rates and terms available, and know our customers inside and out. We are here to help you get the best equipment finance for your machine tool.

Equipment Leasing Made Easy

2011-08-25T00:00:00-04:00

Getting new equipment doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s as easy as leasing what you need when you need it. There are lease options for almost all equipment purchases out there. Equipment leasing is a great option for companies both big and small. Connext has helped companies with their equipment leasing ranging from start-ups to those with multi-million dollars in revenue.

An equipment lease involves renting equipment for a specified amount of time after which various options are available. Connext Financial offers multiple options at the end of a lease, such as a buyout option or the option to continue leasing. If a business decides their needs have changed, or must keep current with new machinery, it’s easy to upgrade to a newer equipment model after the initial lease is finished.

Connext offers competitive equipment lease rates and various terms, depending on the size of the investment. Whether your equipment leasing needs are big or small, Connext financing experts help tailor a deal that’s right for you. It’s important to have an equipment leasing company understand who a business is and what they are trying to achieve so the leasing company can then offer the best equipment leasing to meet those needs with the right terms. Connext financing experts understand equipment leasing doesn’t have to be a hassle or an uninformed process. To learn more about how equipment leasing can benefit your company, contact our finance experts.

What does Financing Forward mean?

2011-08-29T00:00:00-04:00

Financing Forward. What does that really mean? It means understanding your equipment financing and equipment leasing needs today in order for growth tomorrow. Using years of experience and knowledge in each of the industries we serve, our Connext Finance Experts get to know your business needs from a unique perspective.

We promise to understand the landscape of cash flows, balance sheets, and credit requirements as a foundation for structuring the best equipment financing solution to meet your needs. We know how to listen first and offer suggestions based on what we hear from you especially when it involves your future and the industry as a whole. We want your business to continue to succeed, and that’s why we consistently offer you measurable results every time and every day.

Our customer service is exceptional not because we say it is but because we know how to partner with you to bring confidence and satisfaction throughout the process and even beyond. So, if you are looking into equipment financing or equipment leasing for today or tomorrow, contacting our Connext Finance Experts is the second step toward a brighter tomorrow and the first step toward financing forward.

Machine Leases available in Food Processing and Packaging Industries

2011-08-31T00:00:00-04:00

Looking for a machine lease for your food processing and packaging equipment? Connext now offers both financing and machine leasing for all your food processing and packaging needs.

Connext has been in the machine lease business for decades. With the addition of multiple team members who have numerous years of experience, you are sure to find the combination that’s right for you. Now, you can access the benefits of Connext’s multiple funding sources to get the best rates, terms and structure around your machine lease for food processing and packaging equipment.

Not only are our Connext Finance Experts highly experienced in what you care about most – getting the machine lease that meets your business needs – we also operate on a high level of trust and discipline that carries on throughout the life of the machine lease. The customer service and care is evident in every machine lease we carry out, leaving you satisfied and your business in a position to succeed. The high expectations and quality output you expect from your food processing and packaging equipment comes standard in each of our Finance Experts.

Want to learn more on how our Connext Finance Experts can help with your machine lease for food processing or packaging equipment? Contact us today.

The New Connext Quote Tool

2011-09-12T00:00:00-04:00

At Connext, we run into customers every day who struggle trying to figure out just what they can afford to spend for new equipment each month. Most of the time, they tend to buy less than they can really afford which often leaves them with less equipment than they need as well. The problem was there was no quick, easy way to see equipment financing options for any amount. That’s why we’ve developed our new Connext Quote Tool specifically tailored to make it easy to figure out equipment financing quickly and easily. With it, you can instantly see expected monthly payments with various financing terms ranging from 36 months to 84 months along with estimates of hourly cost per shift. It’s a savvy tool for our customers so they can sell customized equipment terms that truly fit their customers’ needs without all the guesswork. The tool also gives customers access to the same great service they’ve come to expect from us, quick response time and decades of experience from our Finance Experts.

Contact us about this incredibly savvy tool that can help you deliver customized options to your customers quickly and easily by removing the guesswork.

Now that’s financing forward.

Customized Offerings Simplified

2011-09-15T00:00:00-04:00

Okay, you’re ready to look into equipment financing, but you’re not sure what options you have. At Connext, we make it easy for you by providing a lot of options and experienced Connext Finance Experts to help walk you through the process.

Whether you want to purchase new equipment or lease equipment, we have an option ready to meet your needs. Among our many offerings are:

Capital leases with $1 and balloon/fixed buyouts
Fair market value and operating leases
Loans, notes and security agreements
Rentals

We also have versatile payment options including first payment deferments, direct debit payments, early termination and buy-out options to name a few. Plus, our finance terms range anywhere from 12 to 84 months and can include soft costs (freight, installation, start-up) and all types of manufacturing equipment.

Equipment financing doesn’t have to be complicated especially when you choose to work with Connext. We offer a one-stop shop for all your equipment financing needs. With unparalleled service from insiders who know your industry, it’s hard to pass up the customized options and choices you receive.

Bringing Competitive Financing Options to a Broad Audience

2011-09-19T00:00:00-04:00

Having a national reach is important to us. We know that being able to reach our customers and match them with a wide range of options enables us to offer equipment finance terms that are truly customizable. Here at Connext, we work with commercial businesses, partnerships, sole proprietors, state and local governments, new businesses, and even customers in Canada to bring financing terms to the table that are straightforward and competitive.

We also make it easy for our customers all across the country to reach us by making sure we return calls within 24 hours, giving a good faith estimate before every closing, and providing a meeting summary after every in-person visit. We have Connext Finance Experts across the country who understand the ins and outs of the industry and have expansive experience working with customers to develop unique equipment leasing and equipment financing solutions tailored to fit their individual capital and cash flow requirements.

With a national reach, we are able to connect our customers with the best financing source for them wherever they may be when they need it.

So, contact us today to connect with a Connext Finance Expert who understands your industry and can help facilitate the best equipment financing or equipment leasing option for your business.

Values to expect from your Equipment Finance company

2011-09-22T00:00:00-04:00

Experience, honesty, trust. These are just a few of the core values people hope to see when working with any business, customer or client. When working with an equipment leasing company, people should expect to see these fundamental and essential values.

We’ve all been there before. Whether dealing with a client, vendor or business partner, the other party may seemingly be great and even walk the talk for a little while. However, their true colors show through and without the core essentials of honesty, trust and experience, even the simplest deal can become a horrible nightmare. At Connext, these values are non-negotiable. Connext first operates on a position of honesty and trust with knowledgeable and experienced people. They offer equipment financing and leasing second.

The latest addition to the Connext team is the Finance Expert Tim Woodcock. Tim has decades of experience working with various equipment financing institutions, and has built his reputation on the quintessential values of honesty and trust. Tim services several industries including equipment, construction and transportation for machine leasing and financing. When dealing with important buying decisions, Tim knows his customers need a smart mind and trustworthy source to help with their machine finance needs.

The knowledge and experience Tim brings customers when they need equipment finance is much more than a list of options. Tim works with the customer to help understand their individual needs. He knows no two industries are alike, and no two companies are alike. So why should any two equipment finance deals be alike? By understanding what the customer needs or the business needs are, Tim is able to help achieve the best machine financing or leasing available. He will structure the deal with the best options, terms and rates that neither the customer nor Tim could do on their own. Tim understands it takes honest and open communication and teamwork to come to the best solution.

To see what machine finance and lease options are available that have yet to be explored, contact Tim Woodcock or one of our knowledgeable Finance Experts.

Section 179 Tax Savings – The Time to Save Is Now

2011-09-26T00:00:00-04:00

This is the year to save on equipment purchases. With the Section 179 Bonus Depreciation* write-off, customers can now deduct the first $500,000 of equipment purchases from their taxable income. But, the deadline’s fast approaching which is why we have been so stringent here at Connext to help make it easy to see just how much our customers can save on equipment purchases made between September 8, 2010 and December 31of this year.

One of the financing tools we have developed to help see the potential savings when purchasing equipment is our Section 179 Calculator. With the Section 179 Calculator, it’s easy to quickly view how much our customers will save. Plus, there’s no commitment to purchase equipment. It’s just one of the ways we work to make it easy and simple for our customers to find the right equipment financing option to fit their needs all while saving money in the process.

So, check out our Section 179 Calculator today. The expiration date is fast approaching for this amazing savings opportunity.

* As part of The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 (H.R. 4853), an extension of the Small Business Jobs and Credit act of 2010’s ‘bonus depreciation’ allowance has been included that allows an increase from 50 to 100 percent bonus depreciation for investments like company vehicles and equipment placed in service after Sept. 8, 2010 through Dec. 31, 2011. For bonus depreciation, equipment must be new and put to use in the U.S. Tax savings assume a 35% tax bracket. Be sure to consult with your tax advisor for specific advice.

Determining the right mix for Equipment Financing

2011-09-29T00:00:00-04:00

When looking for equipment financing, most buyers start with “I want the lowest interest rate”. Regardless of other seemingly less important options such as terms, purchase options, advance payments and down payment, buyers keep their eye on one thing… the interest rate. But that’s the thing that cost’s the most, Right? The short answer – it depends. More times than not, after working with a Connext Finance Expert a buyer needing equipment financing doesn’t settle for the lowest rate available – and their business is better for it!

Think of it this way. You love chocolate chip cookies. The chocolate chips are your favorite part of the cookie, and so next time you ask the chef to triple the amount of chocolate chips. Eagerly awaiting the first batch, the chef hands you what is expected to be a cookie three times as good as the original. Instead, you see a burnt pile of chocolate with crumbs in it. How did this happen? Interest rates, like chocolate chips, are only one ingredient to the whole picture. When determining the best equipment financing options, other ingredients such as terms and amount down have to be considered. By ignoring or not giving due respect to other ingredients, the outcome can suffer immensely.

Now we know to look at all the options in an equipment financing agreement including terms, down payment, loan options and the interest rate. To make the cookies good again, we’d adjust the flour and other ingredients in proportion to the chocolate. So the cookie is delicious again now, right? What happens when the next customer in line wants a cookie, will they want the same kind? The last and most often overlooked item (ingredient) to look at when financing equipment is the needs of the business. Just as people like different cookies, and therefore need different ingredients to make them, businesses have varying needs. Their specific needs (tastes) take a specific blend of equipment finance options (ingredients) to satisfy them. Connext Finance Experts are ‘chef’s’ in the equipment finance and leasing industry and know the ingredients to get a finance deal flavored to your liking.

If you’re looking for the right ‘blend of ingredients’ in your equipment financing deal, or simply want some assurance you’re on the right track, contact a Connext Finance Expert.

100% Equipment Financing is an option

2011-10-10T00:00:00-04:00

With cash tight, current equipment tired, soft costs growing and new equipment a necessity, a better equipment financing solution is needed.

Connext offers a 100% equipment financing solution. With no money down, Connext is able to finance your machine. This allows the customer to keep more cash in their pocket, or use it for growth or other needed areas of the business. Connext also works with the customer to get to yes fast. This means when a customer is getting equipment financed, they get the approval fast, get the equipment installed fast, and get back to operating fast. Yes…fast.

Connext does more than finance and lease equipment. They even lease more than 100% of the machine. How? Soft costs. Connext covers with their equipment leases soft costs, such as rigging and installation, as well as transportation. Thought this had to be an extra cost? It doesn’t. Connext can include soft costs in equipment financing deals, saving customers much needed cash.

By financing equipment and soft costs and leveraging the 100% equipment finance option, companies and business owners are able to reserve cash, build creditor relationships and keep their businesses moving forward.

If you’d like to discuss 100% equipment finance for a machine or how Connext can help your company, contact us today.

Equipment Financing for CNC Machines

2011-10-13T00:00:00-04:00

Finance your CNC equipment with those who best know and understand CNC Equipment. Connext knows the equipment and can help determine and provide the best equipment financing solution.

Purchasing CNC equipment is a big investment. Having an equipment financing partner that’s been through this before, understands your business needs, and knows the value in the machine being purchased is beneficial. At Connext, the Finance Experts have years of experience in equipment financing, and specialize in the CNC and machine tool industry. They understand when you say you need a 5-axis CNC lathe, you also need it shipped, installed, tested, supporting elements, tooling and any inspection or robotic equipment also included. Connext can not only include soft costs, but they can also provide 100% financing for CNC machines and equipment.

It’s more than just about financing the one piece of equipment. It’s helping you understand the options available to have the largest positive impact when financing equipment. When financing CNC machines, Connext Finance Experts will help you determine between the numerous financing options what is best for you and your company. Capital leases, equipment financing, fair market value leases and operating leases are all options that have different impacts on business needs such as cash flow, tax impact and money down.

If you’re looking to upgrade your CNC machines or want to determine the best equipment financing options, contact one of our Finance Experts in the CNC and machine tool industry. You’ll be glad you did.

Equipment Financing Payment Options

2011-10-17T00:00:00-04:00

Payment Options

First payment deferments – Allows the individual who is financing equipment to not pay, or defer, the first payment. This is helpful in a situation where cash is tight in the short term.
Skip, Step, Seasonal. Monthly, Quarterly, Semi-Annual & Annual Payments – Allows payment structure to follow your business. Works well with seasonal businesses leasing equipment, or those with staggered or inconsistent revenue streams.
Direct debit payments – Allows for automatic payments, lessening the administrative burden.
Early Termination and Buy-out Options – Allows for flexibility down the road. Useful if cash needs are unknown in the future.
FMV Purchase Options with and without Not-to-Exceed Caps – Allows for risk reduction for a business and allows the company to purchase the equipment.

To better understand which payment structure is right for your equipment lease or finance agreement, contact a Connext equipment Finance Expert.

Financing Equipment Benefits

2011-10-20T00:00:00-04:00

Wondering if financing your equipment is the right move? You are not alone. Connext has helped many companies, both private and public, finance equipment in various industries. Many times, the same initial question is asked: “Should I finance my equipment?” The answer is not always immediately apparent, as there are multiple other business needs to juggle to make the correct decision. That’s where the beauty in Connext and their industry experienced Finance Experts can help you make a sound decision. To help get you started on some key benefits of financing or leasing your equipment, the benefits are broken down into Cash Flow and Business categories.

Cash Flow Benefits: Cash is the life blood of any business. Properly managing this crucial element is critical in order to maintain growth, sustainability and longevity in any business. Determining to finance equipment or not, will have a big impact here. Cash flow benefits from financing equipment include the following.

Low fixed monthly payments improve cash forecasting
Bank lines are preserved
Minimal fees and low/no money down
Wide range of products allow monthly payments to match your business needs
Bundled financing allows for soft costs (freight, installation, etc.) to be rolled into payment
Competitive rates

Business Benefits: Beyond the operational needs of cash, arise the larger business needs as a whole. Choosing the right equipment finance options suited for your business can compliment intended plans and help achieve goals. Financing equipment can yield the following.

An additional credit reference and source is established
Internal approval for financing may be obtained faster and easier
Purchasing process is made easier
Lien is only placed on equipment being financed

To learn more how financing equipment can benefit your business, or to get started, contact a Connext Finance Expert today.

Equipment Financing for Food Processing and Packaging

2011-10-24T00:00:00-04:00

Would you buy your house from a car salesman? Would you take your pet dog to a pediatrician? Of course not. People specialize in industries and gain experience for a reason, to be the best and serve their customers better than anyone else can. Why should equipment finance and leasing be any different? For the food processing, packaging and flexographic industry, it doesn’t have to be.

At Connext, that idea flourishes throughout. That’s why at Connext, they specialize in specific industries and have years of experience working with customers. One specific industry for which Connext provides machine financing and leasing is the food processing, packaging and flexographic industry. Indeed a large and established industry, Connext has Finance Experts dedicated to this industry.

With multiple years of industry experience and practical use of machine leasing, the Finance Experts grow to understand their customers needs, their ambitions and business desires. When the company or individual needs to purchase equipment, Connext is there to provide machine financing. Connext understands the industry lingo, understands the industry market and equipment values. What this means for the customer is they get someone who is on their side and able to communicate at a deeper level quickly, as well as more accurate equipment valuations. This allows for higher residuals, and greater chance of machine financing approval.

We are serious about machine finance and leasing in the food processing, packaging and flexographic industry. If you wish to discuss an equipment finance need, or to comment, please contact Linda Reed.

Equipment Purchasing Payment Methods

2011-10-24T00:00:00-04:00

You’re looking to buy a piece of equipment, but now have to figure out the best way to pay for it. Sure, there is enough cash in the bank to pay for it all. But is that poor cash management? What about using the existing line of credit – it’s easy and already there. But will you get it paid back in a timely manner? Will you have enough room on your line for other needs, and does the bank truly understand the value of what’s being purchased?

These are some tough questions that go through many equipment buyers’ minds, but are they the only equipment purchasing options? No. There are other options available, options that can save you money and get the equipment on the production floor faster. At the same time, keeping equipment finance bank lines of credit open for other needs.

The additional options available are a Capital Lease option, a Fair Market Value and Operating Lease option, along with Equipment Finance options. These options are available through Connext, an equipment finance and leasing company with decades of industry specific experience.

To put it plainly, the additional equipment lease options means there is flexibility in regards to payment structure, terms, tax structure and cash flow needs. Additional equipment finance options afford greater chance of approval. The deep industry knowledge of Connext Finance Experts translates to a more competitive interest rate, since they best know the true value of the piece of equipment purchased.

To learn more about equipment financing and leasing options available through Connext, or to speak to an industry Finance Expert, contact Connext.

Which is better? Equipment Loan or Leasing?

2011-11-14T00:00:00-05:00

The decision to finance with a loan or lease equipment more often than not comes down to preference for one over the other. To help make the decision easier, here are a few simple facts to help you out next time you need to decide between the two.

Let’s begin with the most obvious difference, where the debt resides. With an equipment lease, you get the newest equipment, without carrying the debt. The monthly payment is expensed. You tend to get the newest equipment every few years without having to go through the hassle of selling your old equipment. This option can be extremely appealing especially when your business needs to stay current with technological advancements in the industry. Equipment leases are also appealing because they usually have lower monthly payments, which may allow you to get more equipment options than you may be able to otherwise afford initially. Unfortunately, at the end of the equipment lease, you’re left without a tangible asset unless you decide to buy the equipment through a purchase option.

Financing equipment with a loan has its pros and cons too; however, the pros for a loan tend to be long-term versus short-term. For instance, the initial cost of equipment financing through a loan may be higher than leasing equipment, but at the end of the term you own the equipment. You’ll be left with equity in the equipment for which you can repurpose anyway you want. This allows for exit strategy options, giving you the ability to keep the machine, sell the machine and upgrade, sell to liquidate cash, or sell and begin an equipment lease.

Either way, it all comes down to your individual business needs, and the project which the equipment will run. The difference between an equipment loan and equipment leasing doesn’t necessarily mean one option is better than the other. There is a time to lease, and there is a time to buy. That is what Connext is about, discerning which is best. If you have any further questions about the differences between an equipment loan and leasing, contact one of our Connext Finance Experts. They’ll be sure to point you in the right direction.

Manufacturing Industry Machine Leases

2011-11-17T00:00:00-05:00

Connext specializes in specific industries for a reason. One industry they specialize in is the manufacturing and machine tool industry. A banker or loan officer can offer an equipment lease, but truly understanding the value of your machine, which term is right for you, and options that match your business needs takes a true equipment lease expert with years of manufacturing and machine tool industry knowledge.

Sure, there are two parts to machine leasing. If you’re looking to lease a machine, then this is something you should ensure your equipment lease partner has. First, your machine lease provider needs to have a thorough understanding of the equipment leasing and loan market, so they fully understand the array of lease and loan options available. For example, if a provider offers an equipment lease structured as an operating lease with a fair market value purchase, but you need the tax benefits a capital lease allows for, they may still push you into the operating lease since it’s the only option they have available. Simply put, they do what’s best for them, not for you. At Connext, we make it a fundamental business practice to bring our clients a wide array of machine lease options that fits their individual and business needs.

The second thing to look for in a machine lease partner is industry experience. As specialists in the manufacturing and machine tool industry, this knowledge allows us to speak the industry language and help move along the equipment lease process. Additionally, we know the value and useful life of manufacturing equipment to help calculate residual values, which in turn allows for the best lease options to be built. Unlike traditional bankers, we work with funding sources specific to manufacturing and machine tools. What this means for you, the client, is the funding source understands your equipment and approves your equipment lease so we can get to yes fast.

Industry experts for manufacturing and machine tools, equipment lease options that surpass most funding sources, and Industry Finance Experts willing to work with you to build an equipment lease that fits your needs. If this is something you need, then simply contact a Finance Expert today.

Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation with Equipment Financing

2011-11-21T00:00:00-05:00

As the 2011 tax year begins to wind down and 4^th quarter planning heats up, it is important to note how both the ‘Tax Relief Act of 2010’ and the ‘Jobs Act of 2010’ have benefited Section 179 in 2011 and, in turn, a company’s buying power. The benefit can be realized if you pay in full, or use equipment financing.

The positive impacts are seen in the increase of the Section 179 deduction limit, which has doubled to $500,000 and the total amount of equipment that can be purchased has increased to $2 million, up from $800,000. These increases are significant and can have a big impact on a business’s buying decisions and its bottom line.

Section 179 was created so that businesses will find it easier to invest in themselves and to grow. Business equipment is essential for most businesses to operate. Therefore all types of business equipment qualify for this deduction, from software to large machinery and almost everything in between.

Section 179 can also be applied to equipment leases and loans with the right structure. The deductions on equipment leases or loans may even be larger than the actual payments you make! With skip payment options, it’s even possible to install a machine now, and not start paying for it until 2012. This is just one benefit of equipment financing.

Do you operate in a “special zone”? Businesses that operate in certain areas of the country may qualify for an increased deduction. These areas are considered special zones where business activity is currently being encouraged. Some of these areas include: the Gulf Opportunity Zone, the New York Liberty Zone, and Special Enterprise and Renewal Community Business Areas.

You will need to fill out IRS form 4562 in order to elect Section 179 deductions. But before you do, you should also be aware of how it can work with Bonus Depreciation to maximize your savings.

Bonus Depreciation was also positively affected by the acts of 2010 mentioned above, increasing to 100% on qualified assets – after a $500k deduction limit is reached. However, with Bonus Depreciation, only new equipment qualifies. In this case, you may take both Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation deductions. Section 179 can be applied to both new and used equipment. This works on equipment financed, equipment leased or even equipment paid for in cash.

Your potential savings can be calculated quickly and easily by visiting the Section 179 calculator at ConnextFinancial.com

Connext is a leader in commercial equipment financing and our team understands the implications of Section 179 and other tax incentives. We work with businesses to help them understand all their options and make better business decisions. The deduction and benefits are ending soon. Contact a Connext Finance Expert to get your tax savings before the relief act ends.

The Benefits of Equipment Leasing

2011-11-24T00:00:00-05:00

When looking to acquire equipment for business, knowing the advantages of leasing equipment over other options, such as obtaining a loan, is important to making the best decision for your business. Equipment leasing offers several clear benefits to some businesses and may do the same for you.

Capital and cash flow are crucial elements to any business; however some companies may not have much of either when preparing to obtain equipment. Through leasing, start-ups and businesses with limited capital and minimal cash flow have a way to secure needed equipment and remain flexible - usually with a flat monthly payment and little to no upfront costs. Another benefit to equipment leasing is that out of pocket costs are often eliminated or reduced with lease terms that offer general repairs and maintenance. The piece of mind this offers may also be an added benefit to business owners and managers that have a lot to think about. At the end of the equipment lease term, there may also be an option to upgrade the equipment, eliminating the concern for wear and tear and value depreciation. Also, monthly payments can often be deducted as a business expense, reducing the overall taxable amount of the business.

Equipment leasing undoubtedly has its advantages, but it wouldn’t be fair to not share its disadvantages over other options. In the end, leasing equipment with the wrong terms may cost more than purchasing does and unless there is an option to buy at the end of the equipment lease term, you don’t own the equipment. There are also, from time to time, some tax incentives that make purchasing equipment, instead of leasing equipment, very attractive.

It is important to understand the pros and cons of each option when preparing to acquire new business equipment. There are many things to consider, as each business is unique. Options should be weighed with your unique situation and, most importantly, with the company’s goals in mind.

Connext’s team of Finance Experts know the equipment leasing and financing world inside and out – and, with their background in many of the same businesses they serve, they understand the various business needs that influence these decisions.

To learn more how equipment leasing can benefit your business, or to get started, contact a Connext Finance Expert today.

What is the difference between equipment finance experts?

2011-11-28T00:00:00-05:00

It’s easy to find experts in any field, but it’s even harder to know if they are credible experts. That’s why we believe in the idea of “seeing is believing.” We don’t just say we offer amazing service; we promise it. Our customers experience it daily through our transparency with the equipment financing and lending process and quick customer response. We contact our customers as developments happen during the equipment financing process, not afterwards, which can be too late to save valuable customer relationships. We serve, lead, and advocate for our clients on a daily basis because we know that making our clients customers happy ultimately determines their satisfaction. The correct type of equipment financing is just one more step in the right direction.

The Connext Difference simply means

leading our customers through the equipment leasing and loan process by educating them
advocating for the best options to meet their needs
serving them to make sure everything is going smoothly and above expectations

With over 50 years of experience in equipment financing, we make sure to build lasting relationships by ensuring the Connext Difference comes through in everything we do.

To learn about the specific steps of The Connext Clear® PROCESS and how they can benefit your business, contact us. We’ll be happy to answer your questions.