Tax Return Changes for Trucking and Logistics | HelloBooks Full expensing for trucks and trailers, the interest limit, overtime for drivers and owner-operator 1099s. What trucking clients need for 2026.
Trucking is capital-heavy and often financed, so the return of full expensing and the looser interest limit matter more here than in most industries.
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Bonus depreciation on trucks and trailers
100% if acquired after Jan 19, 2025
Applies: Tax years 2025 and 2026From IRS.gov · checked October 10, 2026
Tractors and trailers acquired after January 19, 2025 can be written off in full in the year placed in service. Fleets with large loans may now deduct more interest, because depreciation is added back when computing adjusted taxable income for tax years beginning after 2024.
Owner-operators paid in 2026 need a 1099-NEC only once payments reach $2,000. Hourly warehouse and dock staff may claim the overtime premium deduction.
Record each truck as its own asset with purchase date and cost, and split loan payments into principal and interest. If there is a large first-year write-off, check the excess business loss limit on the owners’ returns before deciding how much bonus to take.
The plain-English summary for business owners
Business returns · Form 4562
Business returns · Form 8990
Business returns · loss limits
General information for tax professionals, not advice on a specific return. Figures are from IRS.gov on the date shown; check the current IRS instructions before filing.
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