Need equipment but want to preserve cash flow and maximize tax benefits? Operating and capital leases offer two distinct paths to acquire the equipment your business needs. Whether you prefer lower monthly payments with an operating lease or want to build equity with a capital lease, both options provide flexible terms and immediate access to the equipment that drives your revenue.
When you need equipment lease financing that combines speed with expertise, CEFI delivers the specialized knowledge and proven track record that makes the difference. With over $811 million in equipment financed across 1,445+ satisfied companies, our team understands the nuances between operating and capital leases and can guide you toward the option that best fits your business strategy. Our streamlined 24-48 hour approval process keeps your equipment acquisition on schedule, while our relationship-focused service ensures you understand exactly how your chosen lease structure impacts your cash flow, tax position, and business growth.
Proven Track Record
2+ Years
in business provides the foundation lenders look for in lease applications
Strong Credit Benefits
650+
FICO score opens access to better lease terms and lower payments
Financial Stability
$250k+
annual revenue provides the foundation for competitive lease terms
Industry Expertise
Proven
lease financing expertise across diverse business sectors and equipment types
Operating leases offer the ultimate flexibility for businesses that prioritize cash flow preservation and want to avoid long-term equipment ownership responsibilities. With an operating lease, you gain immediate access to the equipment you need while keeping monthly payments significantly lower than financing or capital lease options. This approach is ideal for businesses that prefer to stay current with technology, avoid maintenance headaches, or simply want to keep equipment assets off their balance sheet while maximizing tax deductions.
A capital lease offers the perfect balance between preserving cash flow and building long-term asset value for your business. Unlike operating leases where you simply rent equipment, capital leases allow you to treat lease payments as purchases toward eventual ownership. This means you're not just covering monthly expenses – you're investing in assets that will appear on your balance sheet and contribute to your company's net worth. Capital leases are ideal for businesses that plan to use equipment for most of its useful life and want to benefit from both immediate cash flow relief and long-term asset building.
The financial and operational advantages of capital leasing make it particularly attractive for growing businesses that need equipment control without large upfront investments. You gain the flexibility to modify, customize, and fully utilize your equipment without usage restrictions, while building equity that strengthens your balance sheet. At lease-end, you typically have the option to purchase the equipment at fair market value, giving you predictable costs and ownership control that rental agreements simply can't match.
Many operating leases allow early termination or upgrade options, letting you switch to newer technology before your lease expires. This keeps your business current with the latest equipment innovations.
Maintenance and repair responsibilities vary by lease agreement. Some operating leases include maintenance packages, while others require you to handle repairs. Always clarify these terms before signing.
Unlike vehicle leases, most equipment operating leases don't have strict usage limits. However, excessive wear beyond normal business use may result in charges when you return the equipment.
Early termination is often possible but may involve penalties or remaining payment obligations. Some leases offer more flexible termination options than others, so review terms carefully.
Operating leases typically stay off your balance sheet, which can help maintain better debt ratios and preserve borrowing capacity for other business needs.
Purchase prices are typically set at fair market value or a predetermined amount specified in your lease agreement. This gives you predictable costs and protection from market fluctuations.
Since you don't technically own the equipment during the lease term, you cannot sell it. However, you may be able to transfer the lease to another qualified party with lessor approval.
Capital leases appear on your credit report as debt obligations, which can impact your debt-to-income ratios but also help build positive payment history when payments are made on time.
You handle the operations, we'll handle the financing. Connect with lease specialists who understand equipment financing and can deliver fast approvals with competitive terms for both operating and capital lease options.
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Jerry Moreira
Great Sales Team, overall a good experience. I signed all paperwork at distance (docusign) and obtained a great commercial rate (interest). Laura and her leadership was decesive in my involment with CEFI…
Lenix Reyes
Dedicated Commercial Bank. We are costumers since few years ago. Laura is a great professional and helps me to complete our goals. If you need some financial advice and financing services call CEFI.
Meta Transport
I 100% recommend this company. They helped me buy my first truck and I’m now on my 12th all because of CEFI! Five stars. I want to thank them for all their help. Especially Sergio and Alexis…
