Leasing or Financing a Truck in Ontario

Compare leasing and financing options for commercial trucks in Ontario. Learn the pros, cons, and best fit for your business in 2025.
Leasing or Financing a Truck in Ontario
Written by
Alec Whitten
Published on
April 24, 2025

n the fast-paced world of trucking, the way you acquire your vehicle can have lasting effects on your bottom line. Whether you're an owner-operator or managing a growing fleet in Ontario, choosing between leasing vs. financing is one of the most strategic decisions you’ll make in 2025.

This guide explains each option, explores the pros and cons, and provides a detailed side-by-side comparison to help you make the best choice for your business goals.

What Is Truck Leasing?

Leasing allows you to rent a truck for a fixed term—often 2 to 5 years—with the option to purchase, renew, or return it at the end. Lease payments are typically lower than loan payments, and leases often include maintenance.

🔗 Explore Truck Leasing Options

What Is Truck Financing?

Financing means taking out a loan to buy the truck outright. You make regular payments until the loan is fully repaid, and the truck becomes your asset. Financing often requires a down payment and may carry higher monthly payments than leasing.

🔗 Calculate Your Monthly Payment

Truck Leasing vs. Financing: Side-by-Side Comparison

Category Leasing Financing
Ownership No ownership unless you buy the truck at lease-end You own the truck after loan repayment
Monthly Payments Lower monthly payments Higher monthly payments
Down Payment Typically lower or $0 down Usually requires 10–25% down
Mileage Restrictions Yes—exceeding limits may incur fees No mileage restrictions
Maintenance Often included in lease You're responsible for all repairs
Tax Benefits Lease payments may be deductible Depreciation and interest may be deductible
End-of-Term Options Return, renew, or purchase the truck Own the truck outright
Flexibility Higher—easier to upgrade to newer models Lower—vehicle changes require new financing

Pros and Cons Summary

Advantages of Leasing

  • Lower monthly payments
  • Easier upgrades or returns
  • Potentially includes maintenance
  • Ideal for fast-changing tech or regulations

⚠️ Disadvantages of Leasing

  • No equity unless you buy the truck
  • Mileage caps and wear-and-tear fees
  • Long-term cost may be higher if you buy later

Advantages of Financing

  • Full ownership and equity
  • No mileage limits
  • Better long-term investment if you keep the truck
  • Tax deductions for depreciation and interest

⚠️ Disadvantages of Financing

  • Higher upfront and monthly costs
  • Full maintenance responsibility
  • Vehicle depreciation risk

Making the Right Choice: Ontario 2025 Considerations

Assess Your Financial Position

  • Cash Flow Needs: If monthly savings are critical, leasing may help
  • Available Capital: Financing requires a larger down payment
  • Credit Score: Higher scores can lower financing rates

Align with Your Business Goals

  • Short-Term Use? Lease it.
  • Long-Term Asset Building? Finance it.
  • Need Flexibility? Leasing supports fleet rotation and upgrades
  • Running High Mileage? Avoid leasing penalties—consider financing

Ontario Trucking Industry Trends Impacting This Decision

🔋 Tech Innovation

Want access to the latest electric or autonomous trucks? Leasing lets you upgrade frequently without long-term commitment.

⚖️ Regulatory Changes

Changing emissions or safety laws may make ownership riskier. Leasing helps you stay compliant without reselling outdated equipment.

Final Thoughts

For truckers and fleet owners in Ontario, both leasing and financing offer valuable paths—depending on your budget, usage patterns, and business strategy.

Let Mehmi Financial Group help you compare real-world options and secure the structure that supports your long-term success.

Speak to a Truck Financing Advisor
Apply Online in Minutes

Contact Us!
Read about our privacy policy.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.