How to Use an Equipment Lease For Your Business

Equipment Leasing Explained

An equipment lease is a type of business financing arrangement where a company, individual, or organization rents equipment from a lessor (the owner of the equipment) for a specified period of time. The equipment can be anything from large machinery, such as construction equipment or agricultural machinery, to smaller items like computers, audio-visual equipment, or vehicles. The purpose of a lease is to provide a means for a business or individual to address their equipment needs without having to purchase it outright.

The main advantage of leasing is that it provides access to equipment without the need for a large upfront investment for expensive equipment, which can be particularly beneficial for businesses with limited capital or those that need to acquire equipment on a short-term basis. The lessor is responsible for maintenance and repairs during the lease period, and the lessee (the person or business renting the equipment) can often choose to either return the equipment or purchase it at the end of the lease.

Leasing can also be structured in a variety of ways to meet the needs of the lessee, including operating leases, finance leases, and capital leases. The terms of the lease, including the length of the lease, the rental rate, and the responsibilities of the lessor and lessee, will be set out in a lease agreement.

Operating Lease

An operating lease, also known as a true lease or a service lease, is a type of equipment lease in which the lessor (the owner of the equipment) retains ownership of the equipment and the lessee (the person or business renting the equipment) has the right to use the piece of equipment for a specified period of time in exchange for periodic rental payments.

In an operating lease, the lessee does not have any options to purchase the equipment at the end of the lease term and has limited rights to make alterations or improvements to the equipment. The lessor is responsible for maintaining and repairing the equipment, and the lessee is responsible for paying for its normal operating costs, such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance.

The primary benefit of an operating lease is that it provides a low-cost way for a business to access the equipment it needs without making a large upfront investment. Additionally, the lessor bears the risk of the equipment becoming obsolete, losing value, or requiring costly repairs, which can be attractive to lessees that want to avoid these risks.

An operating lease is often used by businesses that require equipment for a short period of time, or for those that want to keep their equipment options flexible and avoid long-term commitments. It is also commonly used for equipment that depreciates quickly, such as technology equipment, or for businesses that have a seasonal or fluctuating demand for equipment.

Finance Lease (Capital Lease)

An equipment finance lease, also known as a capital lease or a finance lease, is a type of lease in which the lessee (the person or business renting the equipment) assumes a significant portion of the risks and benefits associated with ownership of the equipment.

In a finance lease, the lessor (the owner of the equipment) retains ownership of the equipment throughout the lease term, but the lessee has the right to use the equipment and to make certain decisions regarding its operation and maintenance. The lessee is also responsible for paying all operating expenses, such as insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs, and is often required to provide a down payment or make periodic payments that reflect a significant portion of the equipment’s total cost.

At the end of the lease term, the lessee may have the option to purchase the equipment for a predetermined price or to return it to the lessor. If the lessee chooses to purchase the equipment, the lease payments are typically structured in a way that reflects the depreciation of the equipment over the lease term.

The primary benefit of a finance lease is that it provides a way for a business to acquire equipment without making a large upfront investment. It also allows the lessee to take advantage of tax benefits, as the lease payments may be tax deductible. Additionally, the lessee may be able to improve its balance sheet by classifying the lease as an operating expense rather than a capital expenditure.

Finance leases are often used by businesses that require equipment for a long period of time and want the stability and predictability of a fixed-term lease. They are also commonly used for equipment that is expected to appreciate in value, such as real estate or heavy machinery, or for businesses that want to take advantage of tax benefits associated with equipment ownership.

Examples of Industries that Use Leasing for their Business Equipment

Leases are used in a variety of industries, ranging from small businesses to large corporations. Some of the industries that use equipment leases most frequently include:

Construction: Contractors and builders often use leases to obtain the heavy machinery and equipment they need for construction projects without having to make a large upfront investment.
Manufacturing: Many manufacturing companies use leases to acquire the machinery and equipment they need for production without having to make a large upfront investment.
Agriculture: Farmers and ranchers often use leases to acquire the tractors, combines, and other machinery they need for their operations.
Technology: Companies in the technology industry often use leases to acquire computers, servers, and other technology equipment that can quickly become outdated.
Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers often use leases to acquire medical equipment, such as x-ray machines and MRI machines.
Transportation: Companies in the transportation industry often use leases to acquire vehicles, such as delivery trucks, without having to make a large upfront investment.
Energy: Companies in the energy industry, such as oil and gas companies, often use leases to acquire drilling and production equipment.

These are just a few examples of the many industries that use leases. The specific industries that use leases the most will depend on the types of equipment they need and their financial resources, among other factors.

Leasing Versus Buying Equipment

Leasing business equipment and buying business equipment both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision of which to choose depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the business. Mostly business owners should consider the cost of ownership and tax advantages. Also, business owners should be aware that an euipment lease is legally different from a small business loan.

Advantages of leasing business equipment:

Lower upfront cost: Leasing typically requires a smaller upfront payment compared to buying, making it easier for businesses with limited financial resources to obtain the equipment they need. This often will result in lower monthly payments as well.
Flexibility: Leasing allows businesses to easily upgrade to newer equipment as technology advances, which is particularly important in industries that use rapidly evolving technology.
Tax benefits: In some cases, lease payments may be tax deductible, which can help lower the overall cost of leasing.
Preservation of cash: By leasing, businesses can preserve their cash and use it for other business needs, such as hiring new employees or investing in research and development.
Maintenance and repair: In many cases, the lessor is responsible for maintenance and repair of the equipment, which can be a major benefit for businesses that want to avoid the cost and hassle of maintenance and repair.

Advantages of buying business equipment:

Ownership: When a business buys equipment, it becomes the owner of the equipment and has complete control over its use and disposition.
Long-term cost savings: While the upfront cost of buying equipment is typically higher than leasing, the overall cost of ownership can be lower over the long term, especially for equipment that is expected to last a long time.
Customization: When a business owns its equipment, it has the ability to make modifications and improvements as needed, which can be important for businesses that require specialized equipment.
Potential for resale: If a business no longer needs equipment it has purchased, it can sell it to recoup some of its investment, whereas equipment that is leased cannot be sold.

In conclusion, whether a business should lease or buy its equipment will depend on its specific needs and financial situation. Factors such as the cost of the equipment, the length of time it will be used, and the importance of customization and ownership will all play a role in the decision.

Leasing Companies

There are many equipment leasing companies that provide equipment financing and leasing services to businesses of all sizes. Small business owners should understand that many vendors of industrial machinery and equipment generally will offer direct financing or they may work with finance companies (such as those listed below).

Leasing is one financing option, so be sure to check to see about getting a new equipment loan as well. However, most small business loans will likely have a higher cost in the form of higher interest rates.

Some of the largest and most well-known equipment leasing companies include:

BB&T Equipment Finance
CIT Group
GE Capital
First American Equipment Finance
HCL Technologies
John Deere Financial
Marlin Leasing
THL Credit
United Leasing and Finance
Wells Fargo Equipment Finance

These are just a few examples of the many equipment leasing companies that are available. When choosing an equipment leasing company, it’s important to consider factors such as the company’s reputation, experience, and the terms and conditions of the lease. It’s also a good idea to compare the rates and fees of several different companies before making a decision.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Lease?

The eligibility requirements for a business lease vary depending on the leasing company and the type of equipment being leased. However, there are some general requirements that are commonly used by most equipment leasing companies:

Business history: Most leasing companies require that a business have a certain amount of time in operation and a solid financial history, including revenue and credit history.
Credit score: A good credit score is typically required in order to obtain an equipment lease.
Collateral: Some leasing companies may require that the equipment being leased be used as collateral in the event of default.
Business size: Some leasing companies may have minimum requirements for the size of the business, such as minimum revenue or number of employees.
Type of equipment: The type of equipment being leased may also impact the eligibility requirements. For example, some leasing companies may specialize in certain types of equipment and have more stringent requirements for that type of equipment.
Purpose of use: The purpose of the equipment being leased may also impact the eligibility requirements. For example, some leasing companies may only provide leases for equipment that will be used for business purposes, while others may provide leases for personal use as well.

It’s important to note that these are just some of the general eligibility requirements that may be used by equipment leasing companies. The specific requirements will vary depending on the leasing company and the equipment being leased. It’s always a good idea to contact the leasing company directly to discuss their specific requirements and to determine if your business is eligible for an equipment lease.

What to Expect in an Lease Agreement

An equipment lease agreement (sometime called a rental agreement or lease contract) is a contract between a business and a leasing company that outlines the terms and conditions of the lease. The following are some of the key elements that are typically included in an lease agreement:

Description of the equipment: A detailed description of the equipment being leased, including its make, model, and serial number.
Lease term: The length of the lease, the specific period including the start and end dates.
Rent payments: The amount of the monthly rent payments and the due date.
Maintenance and repair: Details regarding who is responsible for maintenance and repair of the equipment, and any related costs.
Insurance: Requirements for insurance coverage on the equipment, including the type and amount of coverage required.
Termination and renewal: The conditions under which the lease can be terminated or renewed, including any penalties or fees.
Default and repossession: The conditions that would constitute default, and the actions the leasing company can take if the business defaults, such as repossession of the equipment.
Assignment and subleasing: Restrictions on the business’s ability to assign the lease or sublease the equipment to another party.
Governing law: The jurisdiction and law that will govern the lease agreement.
Dispute resolution: The method for resolving disputes that may arise between the business and the leasing company.

These are some of the most common elements that are included in a lease agreement. However, the exact terms and conditions of the lease will depend on the specific agreement and the parties involved. It’s important to carefully review the lease agreement and fully understand all of the terms and conditions before signing.