Aug 12, 2025
If you're expanding your fleet this year, one question always comes up: should I lease or finance my trailer?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. But in 2025, with high interest rates, shifting tax codes, and rising equipment costs, the decision has more impact than ever.
Let's break it down.
Leasing = rent the trailer for a fixed period, then return or buy
Financing = take out a loan and own the trailer once it’s paid off
✅ You want to build equity in your equipment
✅ You have stable cash flow for higher payments
✅ You plan to keep the trailer long-term
✅ You want to customize the trailer without restrictions
Pro tip: Consider a balloon payment structure to lower monthly payments while still owning the asset.
✅ You want long-term ROI
✅ You plan to keep trailers 7–10+ years
✅ You can take advantage of 179 tax deductions
✅ You want full control of the equipment
At NEF, we help you model total cost of ownership across both options, based on your:
Not sure what’s right for your operation?
We’ll run the numbers for you — no pressure, just clarity.
Talk to a finance expert today and get a tailored quote in 24 hours.
(954) 678-4124