When you order a new flatbed, service body or crane, there are two questions: how to pay for it and who owns it. Fleet owners in Texas and Louisiana usually choose between cash, a loan, or a lease. This is general information, not financial or tax advice, so check with your lender and CPA.
Option 1: Pay Cash
Cash is the simplest route and avoids interest. The tradeoff is tying up working capital that could cover payroll, fuel and materials. For a single flatbed on a truck you already own, many small shops pay cash. For a full service body with a crane, the number gets large fast.
Option 2: Finance (Loan)
- You own the equipment and build equity as you pay.
- Terms commonly run several years; compare rate, down payment and any prepayment penalty.
- Ownership may allow depreciation. See our Section 179 guide and ask your CPA what applies.
- We also have a general overview in truck bed financing options.
Option 3: Lease
- Lower monthly payments are common, and some leases bundle upfit costs.
- You may not own the truck at the end, and mileage, wear and modification limits can apply.
- Check whether the lender allows a permanently mounted body or crane before you order.
Questions to Ask Before You Sign
- Can the upfit be included in the financing, or is it paid separately?
- Who is the lienholder on the body and the chassis?
- What are the end-of-term options or buyout price?
- Do insurance requirements change? See our work truck insurance guide.
- Is the GVWR right for the new body? See the DOT and GVWR guide.
Getting the Paperwork Right
Lenders usually want an itemized quote showing the body, accessories and labor. We can provide a clear quote that lists each item, which also helps your insurance agent and CPA. If you are weighing an upfit against a new truck, read truck bed swap vs buying a work truck.
Talk to Star Truck Equipment in Wharton, TX
Tell us your truck, your use and your budget, and we will quote the right body. Serving Texas and Louisiana fleets. Call (979) 532-1486.
