acquisition Services
Own-to-Lease
If your company owns a fleet of cars and needs to free up capital, our Own-to-Lease program is the way to go.
own-to-lease
Drive Efficiency & Cash Flow
If you own your vehicles, did you know you can free up cash flow by selling them to Merchants and leasing them back? It’s a smart way to unlock equity while consolidating your fleet under one provider. We’ll purchase your vehicles at fair market value, putting cash in your pocket.We call that a win-win.
Immediate Access to Capital
By selling your existing vehicles to Merchants and leasing them back, you can quickly free up capital for other business needs.
Improved Cash Flow
Switching to a lease structure means more predictable expenses and potential tax perks, making it easier to manage your company’s cash flow.
Operational Continuity
Keep your fleet running smoothly with the same vehicles.
Fleet Modernization
The program makes it simpler to upgrade your fleet, giving you access to newer, more efficient vehicles — to reduce maintenance, fuel costs, and downtime.
9 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Leasing Structure
Leasing commercial vehicles is often the smartest acquisition choice. With lower upfront costs and flexible terms, it offers benefits you just won’t get with ownership. But to truly maximize those perks, choosing the right lease structure is key.
Not sure where to start? We’ve outlined nine key factors to help you decide. And when you’re ready to chat, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an own-to-lease fleet management solution?
An own-to-lease program allows you to sell your vehicles to a leasing provider like Merchants Fleet and then lease them back. This approach frees up capital that’s tied to vehicle ownership and can be a smart way to streamline operations while maintaining access to the vehicles you need.
How does own-to-lease work?
We’ll evaluate your vehicles and offer to purchase them at fair market value. Once you agree, we’ll buy your fleet and lease the same vehicles back to you. Nothing changes — you continue using your vehicles while expending the benefits of predictable lease payments, potential tax benefits, and freed up capital.
Who is this solution best suited for?
Own-to-lease is ideal for businesses seeking better cash flow, predictable costs, operational flexibility, and an easy path to upgrading to newer, more efficient vehicles.
What are the financial advantages of transitioning to an own-to-lease model?
By selling your vehicles, you free up capital that can be used for other expenses or reinvested into your business. Since lease payments are fixed, budgeting becomes much easier with predictable costs and fewer unexpected maintenance and repair expenses. Lease payments may also be deductible as a business expense, offering potential tax advantages.
Does an own-to-lease program include vehicle maintenance and repairs?
Yes! Our Own-to-Lease program includes vehicle maintenance and repair services as part of the lease agreement.
How long does it take to transition from ownership to an own-to-lease solution?
The transition typically takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on factors like the size of your fleet and any necessary paperwork. Key steps include vehicle evaluation, negotiating the lease terms, and finalizing the sale and leaseback agreement. Every situation is different, though, so we can give you a more accurate timeline based on your specific situation.
Smart People. Smart Data.
Our fleet consultants have it all — the experience, the skills, and the industry know-how. Add in the data and technology at our fingertips, and you’ve got a team that’s ready and eager to work with clients like you.
Experience what expert knowledge can do for
your fleet.
Speak with a Merchants Fleet expert about our total fleet solutions for your organization or industry.