Many drivers look at leasing a semi truck to gain more control and a bigger share of each load. That can work — if you treat it like a small business., with you managing your truck payment, fuel, maintenance and taxes.
If you like calling your own shots and can budget well, a lease can be a strong step. If you prefer predictable pay and fewer moving parts, a company setup may fit better.
Since 1955, Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) has helped thousands of drivers take the next step toward independence on the road. With decades of experience supporting both company and lease operators, ATS understands the financial, logistical, and lifestyle factors that go into a successful truck lease.
This guide breaks down the real pros and cons of leasing a semi truck, along with practical tips for deciding if it’s the right move for you.
Why Consider Leasing a Truck?
Many drivers look into leasing to gain more control over their schedule, freight choices, and income. A lease can be a smart path to business ownership without the large upfront costs of buying a truck outright.
But success depends on preparation and active management. As a lease driver, you'll handle your own truck payments, fuel, maintenance, and taxes. Having a clear understanding of the potential risks and rewards is key to your success — and the success of your business.
The Pros of Leasing a Semi-Truck
In general, the pros of leasing a truck come down to opportunity and freedom. Here's how we'd break down the possible benefits of being a lease driver:
-
More earning potential: Lease operators typically take home a higher share of each load (if they run smart) because they’re responsible for their own expenses.
-
Flexibility: Lease drivers choose their own loads, set their own home time, and decide where to run. That means there's no forced dispatch — but there is a responsibility to yourself to make good decisions that keep wheels turning and income steady.
-
Low upfront costs: Compared to buying a truck outright, leasing can be an economical solution. Many programs, including ATS's, have little or no money down, making it easier to get started (even with imperfect credit.) For drivers not ready to buy, leasing can be a lower-risk option for building experience as an independent operator.
-
Be your own boss: You manage your routes, schedule, and business decisions—but with the backing of a trusted carrier like ATS offering guidance and freight access along the way.
Related: Check out these tips for load selection
The Cons of Leasing a Semi-Truck
Of course, nothing in life is 100 percent downside-free. For every pro, there's a related con — so it's up to you to fully understand your own needs, preferences, and financial situation before making the call. In our view, some of the potential cons of leasing a semi truck are:
- Weekly fixed costs: Regular, recurring costs like truck and insurance payments must be covered whether you're running or not, so steady miles and good budgeting skills are critical.
- Operating expenses: Fuel, maintenance, and tires eat into revenue, especially during high fuel price periods. You’ll need to plan ahead, set aside reserves, and think long-term about total operating cost.
- Tax responsibility: As an independent contractor, you won't have tax money removed from your checks. You'll be responsible for either prepaying your taxes quarterly or setting aside money from each check to cover them at tax time. It’s best to work with an accountant to calculate what you owe, plan prepayments, and identify deductible expenses.
- Self discipline: Again, the drivers who thrive in a lease agreement tend to treat it like a small business — because that's exactly what it is. Your earnings and overall long-term success depends on your ability to plan out your loads, make smart spending and saving decisions, and treat the day-to-day with the respect and discipline it requires.
Related: How to File Taxes as a Truck Driver
5 Tips to Win with a Truck Lease
Now that you understand the pros and cons of leasing, here are our best tips for setting yourself up for success as a lease driver, should you choose to go that route.
1) Run the numbers first
Estimate your weekly miles, average rate, and fuel burn. Plug in your fixed costs and an honest maintenance set-aside. If the model doesn’t work on paper, it won’t work on the road.
2) Read every line of the contract
Know what you can modify, how warranties apply, where you must turn the truck in, and what fees hit at turn-in. If a clause is unclear, ask for a plain-English explanation before you sign.
Related: Understanding Your Truck Driver Independent Contractor Agreement
3) Build a safety net
Set aside money from each settlement for taxes and a maintenance reserve. A blown tire or brake job should be an inconvenience — not a total shutdown.
4) Choose loads like a business owner
Look beyond gross pay. Weigh deadhead, fuel cost by region, delivery timing and reload options. The best load is the one that maximizes weekly profit, not just rate per mile.
5) Communicate early and often
Talk with dispatch or your freight partner about lanes you want and the plan to get you home. Clear goals help them source loads that fit your strategy.
If you’re comparing truck lease pros cons across options, use a simple scorecard: payments, fuel, freight access, support, and exit terms. The best choice is the one that keeps more profit in your pocket over time.
FAQ: Leasing a Semi Truck
How much cash should I save before I lease?
As a rule of thumb, aim for several weeks of fixed costs plus a starter maintenance fund. That cushion keeps you steady during slow periods or repairs.
Should I lease a newer or older truck?
Newer equipment often means higher payments but better fuel economy and fewer surprises. Older trucks can be cheaper weekly but may eat that up in repairs. Compare the total weekly cost, not just the payment.
What if I need time off?
Plan ahead. Your fixed payment still hits even if you don’t run, so budget for home time and holidays right from the start.
The Bottom Line on Leasing
Leasing a semi truck offers independence, earning potential, and flexibility—but only for drivers ready to manage the business side. Evaluate truck lease pros cons carefully, understand your numbers, and choose a partner that supports your long-term success.
At ATS, we have lease options through our affiliate company, Competitive Equipment Sales (CES), that'll put you in a truck with no money down and no credit check. Here's what you can expect from the lease program.
Already know you're interested in becoming a lease driver with ATS? Fill out an application today!
