Leasing a Semi Truck: Pros, Cons, and Real-World Advice from ATS

January 17th, 2024

Revised February 3, 2026

Leasing a semi-truck, if approached like running a small business, is a move that can definitely pay off — especially if you budget well and enjoy calling your own shots. On the other hand, if you prefer predictable pay and fewer moving parts, a company driver setup may be a better fit.

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 make a truck lease successful.

In this guide, we'll break down the real pros and cons of leasing a semi-truck and share practical tips to help you decide if it's the right move for you. Let's get into it!

Why Consider Leasing a Truck?

Many professional drivers explore leasing as a way to gain more control over their schedule, freight options, and earning potential. A lease can also be a smart path to business ownership — without the large upfront investment of buying a truck outright.

But success as a lease operator depends on preparation and active management. You're responsible for your own truck payments, fuel, maintenance, and taxes. Having a clear understanding of the potential risks and rewards is key to building a profitable, sustainable business.

The Pros of Leasing a Semi-Truck

Leasing a truck comes down to building independence, flexibility, and earning potential. It comes down to opportunity and freedom. Here are some of the pros to leasing a semi-truck, and how it can open doors to new opportunities on the road:

Greater Earning Potential: Lease operators often take home a higher percentage of each load because they manage their own expenses and business choices. With discipline and smart route planning, that means more money in your pocket compared to company driving.
Flexibility and Freedom: Leasing puts you in the driver's seat. You choose your loads, decide when to go home, and pick where you want to run. There's no forced dispatch. But that freedom comes with the responsibility of making good decisions that keep your wheels turning and your income consistent.
Lower Upfront Costs: Compared to buying a truck outright, leasing offers a more affordable path to independence. Many lease programs, including at ATS, require little (or no) money down, making it easier for drivers to get started — even with imperfect credit. For drivers not ready to buy, leasing is a lower-risk way to gain experience as an independent operator before making the jump to buying.
Be Your Own Boss (With Support): While you are responsible for calling the shots on routes, schedules, and other business decisions, you aren't alone. Leasing with the help of a trusted carrier means access to steady freight and support from an experienced team dedicated to helping you reach your goals. Drivers fuel everything we do here at ATS, so your success is our success.

The Cons of Leasing a Semi-Truck

Of course, nothing in life is completely risk-free. Every benefit comes with a potential trade-off, and leasing a truck is no exception. It's up to you to fully understand your own needs, preferences, and financial situation before deciding which path to take. Here are a few potential downsides to consider before signing a truck lease:

Weekly Fixed Costs: Whether you're on the road or not, there will be regular expenses like truck payments and insurance premiums to deal with, so steady miles and disciplined budgeting are essential to staying profitable through slower weeks and time off.
Operating Expenses: Fuel, maintenance, and tires can quickly eat into your revenue, so plan ahead. Smart lease operators set aside reserves and keep a long-term record of operating costs (not just week-to-week earnings).
Tax Responsibilities: As an independent contractor, taxes aren't automatically removed from your paychecks. 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: And it all comes back to treating a truck lease like running a small business. After all, that's exactly what it is. Your income and long-term success depend on your ability to plan loads strategically, make smart spending and saving decisions, and treat the day-to-day with the respect and discipline it requires.

5 Tips to Win with a Truck Lease

Now that you've got the pros and cons of leasing, here are our best tips for setting yourself up for success as a lease driver, should you decide that's the right path for you:

1) Run the Numbers First
Start by estimating your weekly miles, average rate per mile, and expected fuel burn. Then, plug in your fixed expenses and an honest maintenance reserve. If the math doesn't math, then it won't work on the road. A clear budget is going to be your friend, and your best protection against the unforeseen.

2) Read Every Line of the Contract
Before you sign, you need to know what it is you're signing and agreeing to. Know what you can modify, how warranties apply, where you're required to return the truck, and what fees you'll face at turn-in. If anything is unclear, ask for a plain-English explanation — again, before you sign.

3) Build a Safety Net
It's tempting to spend through that hard-earned paycheck, but consider looking at your checks as opportunities to prepare for the unexpected. Set money aside for taxes and a maintenance reserve. As inconvenient as a blown tire or brake repair is, these things shouldn't cause a financial crisis.

4) Choose Loads Like a Boss
Think beyond gross pay. Evaluate each load by considering deadhead miles, regional fuel costs, delivery timing, and reload opportunities. The best load is the one that maximizes weekly profit, not just rate per mile.

5) Communicate Early and Often
Talk with your dispatcher or freight partner about your preferred lanes and home-time goals. Clear communication helps them source loads that fit your schedule and strategy.

Bonus Tip: If you're weighing different truck lease options, build a simple scorecard comparing payments, fuel costs, freight access, support, and exit terms. The right lease is the one that helps you keep more of your hard-earned money over time.

FAQ: Leasing a Semi-Truck

How much cash should I save before I lease?
A good rule of thumb is to have several weeks of fixed expenses set aside, plus a starter maintenance fund. That'll give you a cushion during slow freight periods or unexpected repairs and help keep you focused on running your business.

Should I lease a newer or older truck?
Newer trucks usually come with higher weekly payments but offer better fuel efficiency, warranty coverage, and fewer mechanical surprises. Older equipment can be cheaper up front, but repair costs can quickly eat away at those savings. The key is to compare your total weekly cost, not just the payment, and at the end of the day, it comes down to your goals and comfort level.

What if I need time off?
Plan ahead. Your fixed payments don't stop when you take a break, so budget for home time and holidays (and the unexpected) right from the start.

Last Stop: The Bottom Line on Leasing

Leasing a semi-truck offers independence, flexibility, and the potential for higher earnings — but it also requires a strong understanding of the business side of trucking. Before you make the leap, take time to evaluate (and re-evaluate) the pros and cons of truck leasing, make sure you know your numbers, and get with a company like ATS that's committed to your long-term success.

At ATS, we have lease options through our affiliate company, Competitive Equipment Sales (CES), where qualified drivers can lease 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!