A catering build-out typically runs $60K–$200K all-in for equipment, depending on size and concept ambition. Equipment financing covers catering (transport equipment — hotbox, cambros, refrigerated truck — plus production-kitchen base). Same lenders, same rates (5.99%–24% APR over 24–84 months), but the equipment mix and Section 179 math differ from a generic restaurant.
Production kitchen base $40-$100k, hotboxes $1-$3k each, cambros $200-$400 each (plan for 20+), refrigerated truck/van $35-$80k. Total typical range: $60K–$200K for a single-location operator. Multi-unit and higher-end concepts can run 2-3x these numbers.
Most catering operators stack: SBA 7(a) for the largest piece (often 60-70% of total), equipment financing for specific items with tight install timelines (walk-in coolers, hoods, primary cooking equipment), and a business line of credit for working capital. Pure single-loan financing of a full catering build-out is rare.
On the typical catering build-out range ($60K–$200K), Section 179 lets you deduct the full equipment cost in year 1 (up to $1.16M cap). At a 24% effective tax rate, that's $19K-$53K in first-year tax savings on the lower end of the range. Use the Section 179 calculator to model your specific spend.
Three recurring blockers: (1) install timeline — catering-specific equipment often has 6-12 week lead times that compress your build window, (2) electrical/gas spec conflicts — many caterings need dedicated 220V/3-phase circuits or higher BTU gas service than the space was originally designed for, (3) underestimating smallwares + opening inventory ($8K-$25K typical, often missed in financing planning).
SBA 7(a) yes, equipment-only lenders no. Most catering operators stack 2–3 financing routes for the full build.
For most caterings, restaurant-vertical lenders (Beacon Funding, Crest Capital) are the best mix of speed, terms, and willingness to underwrite the equipment mix. National Funding is fastest. SBA 7(a) lowest rate but slowest.
Yes — most equipment lenders finance used catering equipment up to 7-10 years old. Slightly higher rates (1-3% premium) and shorter terms (24-48 months max). Often a strong play for first-location operators on a tight budget.
580+ minimum for most equipment lenders, 680+ for best rates. Sub-580 typically routes to vendor financing through equipment dealers at higher APR.
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