The choices are many when it comes to buying a new commercial truck, but the options may be fewer as the prices of new and used vehicles continue to climb. Manufacturers are blaming the price increases on the inflation of the cost of materials as well as government safety and clean air standards, and regulations.
New or Used
Purchasing a new vehicle may certainly seem like the best option. You know everything about that vehicle from its maiden voyage – its maintenance history, accident history, etc. But can your business currently afford the cost of a new truck?
Here are some additional facts to weigh into the new vs. used decision. While the cost of purchasing new is definitely higher, the cost of maintenance is much lower with a new truck. New trucks are equipped with the latest technology helping companies save on fuel and other operating costs, plus they include safety features that can help drivers avoid accidents.
Other considerations in the new vs. used decision are the number of miles the truck will be driven. A truck that will be relied upon heavily and will be putting on thousands of miles per year might best be purchased new. While a truck that is used less frequently and may sit idle for days or weeks at a time, might best be purchased used.
Buy or Lease
Large carriers may have the means to purchase new vehicles with cash, but most companies today finance their vehicles. There are certainly good reasons to finance your truck purchases. The number one benefit is keeping the company’s capital available. But what makes most sense when financing, a loan, or a lease?
Let’s look at leasing first. Leasing payments may actually be lower for a higher quality vehicle as they cover depreciation, rather than equity in the truck. Companies such as NationaLease offer regional and local sources of loans and leases, making availability of financed vehicles easy to secure.
In contrast to the lease, financing a commercial truck has the advantage that once you have paid the loan, you own it. The residual value belongs to the company and depreciation can be claimed annually.
The best choice is to review the options with your accountant. They may recommend one over the other depending upon your current corporate finances. In many cases, a healthy mix of new and used, leasing and financing make for a diverse portfolio within your fleet.
Why C&M Motors
C&M Motors is a locally owned and operated family business serving the greater San Diego area since 1982. With 2 locations to serve you (National City and Vista), we offer a more personalized experience and customized services to meet your business needs. New and used, leasing and financing, as well as service, rentals, maintenance, collision, fabrication, parts, and 24/7 emergency roadside assistance are all available at C&M Motors.
Give us a call to learn more.
C&M Motors Inc
www.cmmotorsinc.com
(800) 736-3443