Trucks are an essential tool for businesses that transport goods and services. However, purchasing trucks can be expensive. This is where leasing comes in.
Being a private or for-hire truck driver can offer many benefits. The biggest benefit is the control over a work schedule and what jobs to take. However, both options come with certain disadvantages as well.
1. Cost
Taking on new truck drivers is a costly endeavor, especially when you’re looking at hiring costs in conjunction with training and lost productivity. Hiring a professional company can save you time and money, while also guaranteeing that your products will arrive at their destination safely and on time.
Trucking companies are able to offer you vehicles at lower rates than you’d get by purchasing them outright or through a loan. Plus, you can choose to purchase the vehicle at the end of a lease term and pocket the equity you’ve built up in it.
You can also choose to become an independent contractor, which is a better choice for those who want more control over their work life and personal lives. Unlike employees, independent contractors will not need to be paid salary and benefits.
2. Convenience
Truck drivers are required to be on the road for long periods of time. This can take a toll on both the driver and their family. It is important for the driver to be comfortable in their truck and have access to the latest technology to ensure safe delivery of cargo.
The latest work trucks offer many benefits including route optimization, fuel-efficient engines, and a host of safety features. These advances can help a business maintain their competitive edge, improve delivery times, and even reduce their carbon footprint.
Leasing a truck allows companies to take advantage of these advancements without the burden of purchasing a new vehicle. This can save companies a lot of money in the long run. It can also free up capital that they can put toward other opportunities to grow their business.
3. Flexibility
For businesses that only need a truck on an as-needed basis, renting can be an effective option. This will free up a significant amount of your business’s financial resources. These dollars can then be used for other purposes, such as advertising campaigns or hiring new employees.
Buying or leasing a truck is also an option for companies that don’t want to be responsible for paying benefits and payroll taxes on their drivers. In this case, they can hire independent contractors to do the work.
It’s important to note that while hiring an independent contractor comes with some risks, it can save a company money in the long run. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified payroll specialist or attorney to ensure you’re complying with all employment and tax laws.
4. Safety
Depending on your business model, some employees may need to use personal vehicles for work-related activities. This can save your company money by avoiding the cost of leasing or purchasing trucks, as well as maintenance fees and insurance premiums.
Truck driving is a dangerous job, and accidents can happen. It is important to keep this in mind when hiring drivers. Consider offering a driver training or safety program for employees who are allowed to use personal vehicles for work-related activities.
Additionally, having a “Not For Hire” sign on the vehicle can help prevent drivers from using their personal vehicles for business purposes on the weekend or while they are off duty. This can protect your business from legal issues that could arise if you allow your drivers to make side jobs in their own vehicles.
5. Customization
For businesses that offer client-facing services like landscaping crews, electricians, or telecommunications technicians, a customized truck can help make customers feel more at ease when their technician shows up. With a custom upfit, business owners can choose the specific truck body and storage options that will best suit their needs.
Choosing the right truck body can also improve fuel economy and give their team the space they need to carry tools, equipment, and supplies. This can save a company thousands in fuel costs alone over the course of a year.
Additionally, by leasing their fleet vehicles instead of purchasing them, a business can avoid paying monthly payments, maintenance fees, and depreciation expenses. Leasing can also give a company access to newer models with better technology and safety features.
