When Should I Lease Computer Equipment?

When you are in business, there are some situations where it makes more sense to lease computer equipment as opposed by buying it. Leasing computer equipment makes sense for start-up companies, when you want to be able to upgrade at regular intervals, and when you don't have the resources to have full time IT staff on site. If any of these scenarios fit your business, then you may want to consider leasing your computer equipment.

When you are getting started in business, you need to keep a close eye on costs. Rather than spend some of your precious capital buying equipment outright, it makes sense to lease computer equipment instead. Leasing means that you avoid having to approach a lender and have to go through the steps necessary to arrange financing. Instead, you can get the equipment in place and up and running quickly.

Another factor to consider when you want to lease computer equipment is how often you are planning to upgrade your computer system. With a lease option, you know you are only committing to having the equipment on the premises for a set amount of time. At the end of the lease, you can return the equipment to the leasing company and bring in new equipment that is up-to-date.

Not all companies have the resources to hire staff to service their computer equipment and perform any necessary upgrades. In a situation where you decide to lease computer equipment as opposed to buying it, the leasing company is responsible for making any repairs and making sure that the equipment has any recommended updates. If anything goes wrong with the equipment, all you need to do is contact the leasing company, and they will look after it.

Computer equipment shouldn't be thrown out with the regular garbage, and if you choose to lease yours, the company will look after making sure it is taken to a depot that can take electronics. Having to take care of this yourself is a distraction that takes your attention away from running your business. If the leasing computer equipment means you don't need to worry about disposing of it when you upgrade, then that is a factor that makes leasing a more attractive option.

If you think you would like to rent computer equipment, you need to take the time to consider all of your options. In some situations, a rent-to-own arrangement may make sense if you don't anticipate needing to upgrade the equipment in a few years. You will need to consider the total cost of leasing the equipment before making a decision, though.