Mastering Equipment and Vehicle Logbooks for Tradies
6 October 2026 · 5 min read · By Heaney Accounting
For many tradespeople, your vehicle is your most important tool. Tracking exactly how much you use it for business versus personal travel is the only way to ensure you claim the right amount at tax time.
Why the logbook method pays off
While the cents-per-kilometre method is simple, it often doesn't reflect the true cost of running a heavy-duty trade vehicle. Keeping a logbook for 12 continuous weeks allows you to claim a percentage of all running costs, including fuel, repairs, and insurance.
- The make, model, and engine capacity of the vehicle.
- The odometer reading at both the start and end of the 12-week period.
- Each business trip, including the date, destination, and purpose.
- Total kilometres travelled by the vehicle during the period.
Pro Tip: Remember that a logbook is valid for five years. As long as your business usage patterns remain consistent, you don't need to start a new one every single year.
Don't forget that heavy equipment and mobile plant machinery also require clear records. If you share these assets between job sites, documenting their movement ensures you can account for depreciation correctly.
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