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Just to close the loop on this - Delaware filing is definitely correct for your LLC debtor. File against the exact legal name from the Delaware Secretary of State records, include detailed equipment descriptions, and you should be good to go. The Texas location of the equipment doesn't affect filing jurisdiction for standard personal property.

One additional consideration for your Delaware filing - make sure to check if the LLC has any amendments or name changes since formation. I've seen cases where the current operating name differs from the original charter name, and you need to file against the exact legal name as registered with Delaware SOS. Also, with an $850K transaction, consider whether you want to include after-acquired property language in your collateral description to cover any future equipment purchases. This can provide additional security without needing separate filings later.

One thing I'd add is to ask your bank about their specific timeline for the cautionary filing. Some lenders file these 30-60 days before closing, while others do it much closer to the loan date. Since your equipment installation is in 30 days, you'll want to make sure the timing aligns properly with your funding needs. Also, if you're working with any equipment vendors or other creditors, give them a heads up about the filing so they're not caught off guard when they run UCC searches. Transparency goes a long way in maintaining good business relationships during the loan process.

I went through something similar last year with a $200k equipment loan. The key thing that helped me was getting a clear written timeline from the bank about their cautionary filing process. My lender filed the cautionary UCC about 45 days before closing, then amended it with specific equipment details once we finalized the purchase agreements. What really saved me headaches was asking for copies of everything they filed - you'd be surprised how often there are small errors in debtor names or addresses that are easier to catch early. Also, make sure your loan agreement specifically references what happens to the cautionary filing at closing. Some banks automatically terminate and refile, others just amend. Having that clarity upfront prevents confusion later when you're trying to track what's actually on file against your company.

Just a heads up - since you mentioned the deadline is Monday, make sure to check if the filing office is open and what their cutoff times are. Some county recorder offices have earlier deadlines on Mondays or reduced hours. Also, if you're filing electronically, verify the system will be available. I've seen people scramble at the last minute only to find the e-filing system was down for maintenance. With fixture filings being more complex, you don't want any last-minute surprises delaying your submission.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is the importance of checking whether your state allows "after-acquired property" clauses in fixture filings. Since you're dealing with restaurant equipment, the debtor might be adding more fixtures over time as the business grows. If your state permits it, you might want to include language like "and all additions, accessions, replacements, and substitutions thereof" in your collateral description. This could save you from having to file amendments every time they bolt down a new piece of equipment. Just make sure your security agreement supports this broader coverage.

Update us on what you decide to do! This is exactly the kind of situation that could help others avoid the same mistake. And definitely get that legal advice - $180k is too much to risk on forum advice, even good forum advice.

As a newcomer to UCC filings, this thread is both incredibly helpful and terrifying! I had no idea there was such a distinction between regular UCC-1 filings and fixture filings. Dylan, your situation really highlights how easy it is to miss these critical details. I'm curious - for those of you who do dual filings as a precaution, do you find that creates any complications down the road, or is it pretty straightforward? Also, are there any good resources or checklists that help determine when equipment might be considered a fixture? I want to make sure I don't make the same mistake when I start handling larger equipment loans.

Just to add one more data point - I had a similar issue with gym equipment for a small fitness studio. The dealer tried the same 'small business equals consumer goods' argument. Ended up having to cite the official UCC comments to convince them. Your cafe equipment is definitely equipment, not consumer goods.

As a newcomer to UCC filings, this thread has been incredibly educational! I'm working on my first secured transaction and was actually unsure about this exact classification issue. The distinction between business size and intended use makes perfect sense now. Quick question - when you're describing the collateral on the UCC-1, do you need to specifically state "equipment" or is a detailed description of the actual items (like "commercial espresso machines, refrigeration units") sufficient? Want to make sure I get the terminology right on my filing.