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  • Post last modified:November 13, 2025

Equipment Leasing 101: The Ins & Outs of Being a Lessee

There may be a list of things to consider when buying anything. It is not easy, especially if that single decision will affect your entire business. You should think this all the way through and gather more information.

Lessors (the party that allows someone to borrow an asset) specialize in various kinds of leasing, such as finance lease and operating lease.

The lease term is determined by the devices being lent out (e.g., machinery and workplace equipment) and what you choose to do at the end of the contract. For example, a finance lease means you will not own the devices at the end of the period. However, you can choose to return it at the end of the contract or continue the lease thereafter.

Understanding Your Role as a Lessee

Financial Structure and Ownership Title

The main difference between a loan and a lease is the ownership title. With a loan, you gain more “ownership” features of the device immediately. Conversely, with a lease, the lessor holds the title to the equipment and will only provide you with the option to buy it when the copier lease contract ends.

  • Balance Sheet Impact: When you lease a piece of equipment, you do not immediately own the title of the property; hence, it will not be included in your overhead expenses’ balance sheet. This is a good idea because of its tax incentive, but it could be unfavorable if you do not have any fixed possessions.

Cost vs. Term Length

Financial FactorLeasing AdvantageLeasing Drawback
Upfront CostLow or none; great for start-up businesses and preserving cash.The total cost might accumulate to be more pricey than buying outright.
TechnologyEasy upgrades are possible; avoids obsolescence risk.You are locked into a contract term (usually 3–5 years).
MaintenanceMost reliable companies offer maintenance and repair services included, covering costs upfront.If you wish to get out of the contract before the agreed term ends, it might not be easy to do so.

Before deciding to lease an equipment, you should know that device leasing could be more pricey when seen in a long-term perspective. It is especially true for longer term leases. However, with leases, easy upgrades are possible and fast.

End-of-Lease and Exit Strategy

  • Option 1: Return. Businesses can choose to return their device back to the provider after the lease contract ends and the devices have served its purpose.
  • Option 2: Acquire. A few others might decide to acquire it outright at the end of the term.
  • Option 3: Upgrade. You can choose to upgrade to a newer model available in the market.

If you wish to get out of the lease contract before the agreed term ends, you also have to bear in mind that it might not easy to do so. For this reason, always make sure that the equipment being leased will serve the company right all throughout the term.

Lastly, and without a doubt, this option is great for start-up businesses. If you are starting a business, you will have to provide a reliable assurance to the lessor. As soon as you are set up and the business is making suitable earnings, you might then have the chance to own the possessions after the lease duration.

If you plan to get copiers for your office in Boston, you can opt to buy copiers or lease copiers in Boston. Boston Copier solutions provide the technology you need. Request a quote today to start your flexible short term lease Boston MA or long term contract.

If you plan to get copiers for your office in Boston, you can buy copiers or lease copiers in Boston. We can give you options for getting the copy machine that you want. You can contact our local copier leasing services department in your location.

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