| Compare | Cashflow | Asset-backed |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | Business payment timing and expected receipts | The asset, its value and the business purpose |
| Details to prepare | Amounts, due dates and expected customer payment dates | Asset description, relevant age details, quote and delivery timing |
| Free planning worksheet | Four-week cash-flow planner | Asset-purchase brief |
| Explore the option | Cashflow business loans | Asset-backed business loans |
When the starting point is a timing gap
The cashflow conversation starts with money coming in and payments going out. Describe the stock order, supplier bill or trading commitment, the amount due and the expected customer payment dates. A total for the month can hide a difficult week, so put the dates beside the amounts.
When an asset is part of the conversation
For an asset-backed enquiry, bring the vehicle, equipment or machinery into the brief. Record its description, value and relevant age details, along with the business purpose and amount needed. For a purchase, include the supplier quote, delivery timing and costs beyond the advertised price. The proposed security and final terms need to be confirmed separately.
A purchase can affect cash flow too
A business buying equipment may still have wages, supplier bills and other payments due before the equipment is working. Keep the purchase costs and the trading commitments visible in the same plan. Listing both needs clearly is more useful than assuming one finance option covers everything.
Compare the whole proposed commitment
Look at the amount, term, repayment dates, total repayable and any fees together. Check what security or guarantees are proposed and how early repayment would be handled. If comparing offers, use the same amount and term where possible, and identify any differences in fees or payment structure.
You can enquire before choosing a category
LendFI’s initial enquiry includes “Help me choose” and “Not sure” options. Describe the business purpose and timing even if the amount or route is not settled. No identification or financial documents need to be uploaded for that first enquiry. An indicative calculator result is a starting point for a conversation, not an approval.
Keep the first conversation practical
Business purpose: Amount needed, or what still needs costing: Date the money is needed: Expected receipts and payment commitments: Asset description and supplier quote, if relevant: Details or dates still to confirm: