Leasing is a proven form of financing in fleet management that gives companies access to vehicles without having to buy them outright. Instead of a high one-off payment, companies benefit from fixed monthly installments and can structure their vehicle fleet flexibly and predictably.
What is leasing?
In leasing, a lessor (e.g. a bank or leasing company) lets the lessee (e.g. a company) use a vehicle for a certain period of time. In return, the company pays a monthly leasing rate. At the end of the term, the vehicle can be returned or, in some cases, taken over.
Leasing models in the vehicle fleet
- Mileage leasing: Fixed monthly installments based on an agreed mileage. Transparent, calculable and without residual value risk.
- Residual value leasing: The leasing rate is based on an estimated residual value at the end of the contract. The lessee is liable for any differences.
- Full-service leasingSupplements the leased vehicle with maintenance, repairs, tires, insurance and more.
Advantages of leasing in fleet management
- Conserves liquidity: no high acquisition costs, capital remains available in the company.
- Planning security: Fixed rates make budgeting easier.
- Technical up-to-dateness: Regular renewal of the vehicle fleet.
- Tax advantages: Leasing installments can generally be claimed as business expenses .
Leasing and fleet software
With the help of modern fleet software , leasing contracts, terms, costs and contract details can be managed efficiently. Automated reminders of contract expiries and the integration of leasing services increase transparency and reduce administrative effort.
What should companies look out for?
- Realistic assessment of vehicle usage (e.g. mileage)
- Comparison of offers and services from leasing companies
- Clear regulations on excess mileage, damage and the return process
- Checking full-service offers for price-performance ratio
Conclusion
Leasing is a flexible and economically attractive model for financing company vehicles. It allows companies to plan their mobility strategically without having to make high initial investments. In conjunction with powerful fleet software , leasing processes can be mapped efficiently, transparently and with legal certainty.
