Semi Truck Depreciation Calculator
Straight-line depreciation of a Class 8 truck.
Straight-line truck depreciation = (cost − salvage value) ÷ useful life in years. IRS MACRS for tractors is typically 3 years; book depreciation often uses 5–7.
How it works
- 1Enter truck cost
Use the depreciable basis (purchase price + delivery + setup, minus FET for some elections).
- 2Estimate salvage value
Class 8 typical salvage at year 5: 20–30% of cost.
- 3Set useful life
IRS MACRS for tractors: 3 years. Book/management depreciation: 5–7 years.
Example: $150k cost, $35k salvage, 5-year life
| Depreciable basis | $115,000 |
| Annual depreciation | $23,000 |
| Monthly | $1,917 |
Takeaway: Use Section 179 + bonus depreciation in year 1 for accelerated write-off — talk to a trucking CPA before December.
Key takeaways
- Book depreciation: 5–7 yr; tax MACRS: 3 yr.
- Section 179 + bonus can write off most of year-one purchase.
- Salvage: 20–30% at year 5.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a semi truck depreciate for tax purposes?+
IRS MACRS treats tractors as 3-year property. Many owners elect Section 179 or bonus depreciation to accelerate the deduction into year one.
What is the salvage value of a semi truck?+
Typical Class 8 salvage at 5 years is 20–30% of purchase price. Trade-in value at 700k–900k miles in 2026 is $35–$55k for popular spec trucks.
Last reviewed June 15, 2026 by the Bonafide Trucking Solutions dispatch team.