Leasing Options

Compare Railcar Leasing Options

We offer a full range of railcar leasing options tailored to meet the needs of shippers, railroads, and industrial operators across North America. Whether you’re looking for full-service operating leases, net leases, per-diem agreements, or capital lease structures, our flexible programs are designed to fit your operational and financial goals.

FULL SERVICE OPERATING LEASE

Everest retains ownership of the railcars while granting you exclusive use for a set term. Lease payments are treated as an expense on your income statement, with no asset recorded on your balance sheet. Everest covers routine maintenance, insurance, and taxes. You are responsible for costs related to the product shipped and any extraordinary maintenance.

PER-DIEM

This structure follows North American car-hire conventions. Railroads pay based on time and mileage when using another railroad’s cars. Most revenue is earned when cars are off the leasing railroad’s line. Rates and guarantees vary widely from no revenue assurance to fully guaranteed streams. Commonly used between leasing companies and railroads needing specific car types.

CAPITAL/FINANCE LEASE

Similar to a conditional sales contract, this option allows you to pay over time without a separate loan. You gain immediate use of the railcar and typically have the option to purchase at the end of the term. Early termination clauses protect Everest. This structure benefits both parties: you secure long-term use and eventual ownership, while Everest earns predictable payments.

SALES LEASEBACK

You sell your railcars to Everest and lease them back, freeing up capital while retaining operational use. This provides you with immediate cash and Everest with a long-term lease agreement. Both parties benefit: you improve liquidity, and Everest acquires assets at favorable terms.

NET OPERATING LEASE

Also called a triple-net lease, you pay a base lease fee plus all taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. This structure offers a lower monthly rate but shifts responsibility for upkeep and risk to you. 

CUSTOM

Because there is always an exception Everest Railcar Services is more than willing to create a custom lease for your company. 

Compare Leasing Options at a Glance

Lease Type

Ownership

Maintenance & Insurance

Balance Sheet Impact

Flexibility

Ideal For
Full-Service Operating Everest Everest covers routine; lessee covers product-related Off-balance sheet Moderate Shippers/Operators wanting simplicity
Per-Diem Everest Varies by agreement Off-balance sheet High Railroads needing specific car types
Capital/Finance Lessee (after term) Lessee On-balance sheet (asset & liability) Moderate Companies planning eventual ownership
Sales-Leaseback Everest Lessee Off-balance sheet Moderate Owners needing liquidity
Net Operating Everest Lessee Off-balance sheet Low Cost-sensitive lessees
Custom Negotiated Negotiated Negotiated High Unique operational needs