Which Option Is Better for Your Trucking Business?

When purchasing a Class 8 truck, one of the biggest decisions owner-operators and fleet owners face is whether to lease or buy a semi-truck.

Both options offer advantages depending on your cash flow, credit profile, growth plans, and long-term business goals. Below, we break down the costs, benefits, and financing considerations to help you determine which option makes the most sense.

How Much Does It Cost to Lease a Semi-Truck?

The cost to lease a semi-truck varies based on several factors:

• Age and condition of the truck
  
• Length of the lease term
  
• Mileage restrictions
  
• End-of-term purchase (buyout) option
  
• Credit profile of the applicant
  
• Early termination penalties
  

Monthly lease payments are often structured based on the truck’s value and residual amount at the end of the term. Some leases include a fixed buyout option, while others may offer a fair market value (FMV) purchase structure.

Unlike a purchase loan, leasing allows flexibility in structuring payments based on your operational needs.

For detailed loan options, see our full semi-truck financing programs.

Is Leasing a Semi-Truck a Good Idea?

Leasing can be a smart move for trucking businesses focused on preserving cash flow and maintaining newer equipment.

Benefits of Leasing a Semi-Truck

Lower upfront cost
Leases often require little to no down payment compared to traditional financing.

Improved cash flow
Spreading payments over time helps preserve working capital for fuel, maintenance, insurance, and payroll.

Balance sheet flexibility
Lease payments are typically treated as operating expenses rather than asset depreciation, which may improve financial ratios for future expansion.

Upgrade flexibility
At the end of the lease term, you can transition into a newer truck with improved fuel efficiency, emissions compliance, and technology upgrades.

Potential maintenance coverage
Some lease agreements include maintenance provisions, depending on contract structure.

However, leasing may result in a higher total cost over time compared to purchasing.

When Buying a Semi-Truck Makes More Sense

Buying may be the better option if:

• You plan to keep the truck long-term
  
• You want to build equity in your equipment
  
• You prefer unlimited mileage
  
• You want full control over modifications
  

With a semi-truck loan, once payments are complete, you own the truck outright. For established fleets, ownership can provide long-term cost advantages.

Can You Lease a Semi-Truck With Bad Credit?

Yes — in some cases.

Semi-truck leasing can be more flexible than traditional bank loans because the leasing company retains ownership of the equipment during the lease term. This reduces lender risk and may allow approvals in credit scenarios where conventional financing is limited.

That said, approval terms, down payment requirements, and rates will vary based on:

• Credit score
  
• Time in business
  
• Industry experience
  
• Income documentation
  

At TopMark Funding, we review each file individually to structure the best possible solution.

Can You Lease a Semi-Truck With No Money Down?

Zero-down semi-truck leases are possible in certain scenarios. However, when no down payment is required, other contract terms may adjust, such as:

• Higher monthly payments
  
• Increased buyout amount
  
• Longer lease term
  
• Higher early termination fees
  

A no-money-down structure must be evaluated carefully to ensure it aligns with your long-term profitability goals.

Lease vs Buy: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between leasing and buying depends on:

• Your current cash flow
  
• Credit strength
  
• Growth strategy
  
• Equipment lifecycle planning
  
• Tax strategy
  

Many trucking businesses start with leasing and transition into ownership as they scale.

If you’re unsure which option fits your operation, our team can walk you through both scenarios.

Semi-Truck Leasing & Financing Nationwide

TopMark Funding provides semi-truck leasing and financing nationwide, serving owner-operators and fleet owners across the United States.

We are headquartered in Roseville, California, and have over 20 years of experience in commercial truck financing.

We finance and lease:

• New and used semi-trucks
  
• Kenworth, Peterbilt, Freightliner, Volvo, Mack, and more
  
• Sleeper trucks and day cabs
  
• Vocational and long-haul tractors
  

Whether you’re purchasing a Kenworth W900 or expanding a growing fleet, we offer flexible lease and loan programs designed around your business.

Why Work With TopMark Funding?

• 20+ years specializing in commercial truck financing
  
• Fast pre-approvals
  
• Flexible lease and loan structures
  
• Programs for multiple credit tiers
  
• Nationwide service
  

We are committed to being your long-term financing partner—not just funding a single truck.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you’re considering leasing or buying a semi-truck, our team can help you compare structures and determine what works best for your operation.

Call (866) 627-6644 or complete our online application to get started.