Crestmont Capital Blog

Agricultural Equipment Leasing: Tractors, Harvesters, and Farm Machinery

Written by Mariela Merino | July 17, 2025

Agricultural Equipment Leasing: Tractors, Harvesters, and Farm Machinery

Running a modern farm requires significant investment in machinery—and the upfront cost of tractors, harvesters, and other farm equipment can be overwhelming. That’s where agricultural equipment leasing comes in.

By leasing instead of buying, farmers can access the latest technology, manage seasonal cash flow, and maintain flexibility—all without tying up vital capital.

✅ Featured Snippet Answer:

What farm equipment can be leased?
Tractors, combines, harvesters, sprayers, balers, seeders, and irrigation systems can all be leased to support modern agricultural operations.

What Agricultural Equipment Can Be Leased?

Leasing is available for almost every type of farm machinery and ag tool, including:

🚜 Primary Field Equipment

  • Tractors (compact, utility, row crop, 4WD)

  • Combine harvesters

  • Balers and windrowers

  • Seeders and planters

🌾 Crop Management Tools

  • Sprayers and spreaders

  • Irrigation systems and pumps

  • Cultivators and plows

  • Tillers and harrows

🚛 Material Handling & Support

  • ATVs and UTVs

  • Skid steers and loaders

  • Grain carts and wagons

  • Portable generators

🧰 Storage, Livestock & Misc.

  • Feed equipment

  • Grain bins

  • Barn tools

  • Specialty livestock systems

Used equipment is often eligible as well, especially when in good condition and purchased through a certified dealer.

Why Lease Farm Equipment?

✅ Lower Upfront Cost

Avoid massive upfront investments and preserve working capital for seed, fuel, and labor.

✅ Flexible Lease Terms

Choose short- or long-term lease durations to align with your growing seasons or harvest cycles.

✅ Upgrade Opportunities

Leasing allows you to regularly update machinery—essential in a tech-driven industry with ever-evolving automation and GPS tools.

✅ Fixed Monthly Payments

Predictable expenses help manage seasonal income fluctuations common in agriculture.

✅ Tax Benefits

Lease payments may be fully deductible, and Section 179 may apply to certain financed purchases.

Explore your Section 179 eligibility here (opens in new tab)

Leasing vs. Buying Farm Equipment

Feature Lease Buy (Loan or Cash)
Upfront Cost ✅ Lower ❌ Higher
Ownership ❌ Not unless buyout option chosen ✅ Full ownership
Tech Upgrades ✅ Easier to replace or upgrade ❌ May be stuck with aging equipment
Flexibility ✅ Align with seasons or harvest cycles ❌ Locked into long-term use
Long-Term Cost ❌ Higher over time if kept ✅ Lower if kept 5+ years

Who Should Consider Agricultural Equipment Leasing?

  • Small and mid-size farms with limited upfront cash

  • Large commercial growers upgrading fleets regularly

  • Family farms managing seasonal income

  • Specialty growers (vineyards, orchards, organics)

  • Livestock operations needing rotational tools or feeders

Even new operations can qualify with strong business plans or personal guarantees.

How to Lease Farm Equipment: Step-by-Step

  1. Determine what equipment you need

  2. Get a quote from a vendor or dealer

  3. Choose a leasing company and submit an application

  4. Review lease terms and structure (FMV or $1 buyout)

  5. Sign agreement and take delivery

  6. Begin using your equipment in the field

Top Agricultural Equipment Leasing Providers

  • AgDirectFarm Credit-backed equipment financing

  • Crest Capital – Offers lease programs for ag and rural businesses

  • Farm Credit Services – Flexible terms for new and used ag machinery

All links open in a new tab.

Final Thoughts: Farm Smarter with Equipment Leasing

Farmers are facing rising costs, evolving technology, and unpredictable growing conditions. Agricultural equipment leasing offers a smart path to modernization without risking your bottom line. Stay competitive, manage your risk, and make every acre count.

Take Action: Get the Equipment You Need This Season

Ready to lease a tractor, harvester, or irrigation system?
Compare providers, review terms, and lock in equipment that keeps your farm moving forward—without breaking the bank.