Fleet Advantage released a report illustrating key business provisions and practical implications of tax and accounting updates and how they affect Class-8 truck procurement and the lease versus buy decision.

Entering 2018, private fleets and for-hire carriers have been forced to keep up with a robust economy, which has meant heavier transportation schedules due to increased online shopping and the transport of goods for other business customers. This healthy economy, combined with the recent changes approved to corporate taxes, means that investments in various types of equipment including trucks will continue to grow.

The start of 2018 also has introduced the dual challenge of requiring that finance leaders that are deciding whether to lease or buy equipment become familiar with the new lease accounting rules and provisions of the new tax laws as many of these issues are complex. It is important to analyze and understand how these changes may impact their acquisition strategy, balance sheet, financial plan and tax strategy, and then adjust accordingly to help improve their financial performance.

The report addresses the following:

• Differences between leasing and purchasing equipment
• Advantages of leasing
• Tax reform key business provisions and implications on truck acquisition
• Impact of new FASB accounting standards on acquisition strategies and key provisions
• Dispelling leasing acquisition myths
• How to structure a lease agreement
• A summary of international provisions

“Even though we’re seeing a rise in the number of fleets and carriers changing to leasing, there remain a lot of questions regarding leasing and purchasing under the new tax and accounting landscape,” said Brian Holland, president and CFO of Fleet Advantage. “The days of re-procurement based on legacy methodology are long gone, and it’s critical for companies to make the right acquisition strategy to remain competitive in all facets of asset management.”