Residual value

Definition

Residual value, also known as salvage value or scrap value, is a financial term used in various contexts, particularly in asset management and finance.

What is a residual value?

A residual value refers to the estimated value of an asset at the end of its useful life or a specific period. 

There are different methods used to estimate residual value, depending on the type of asset and industry. Common methods include straight-line depreciation, declining balance depreciation, and sum-of-years-digits depreciation.

Residual value is essential for financial planning and budgeting. It helps businesses and individuals estimate the total cost of owning an asset over its useful life.

Accurately estimating the residual value of an asset is crucial for businesses to mitigate financial risks associated with asset ownership, such as potential losses in case of asset disposal.

Example of residual value

Let’s say you purchase a car for £30,000. After three years of use, the car’s estimated residual value is £15,000. This means that after three years, the car is expected to retain £15,000 worth of value. So, if you were to sell the car after three years, its value would be £15,000.

Ready to grow your business?

Clever finance tips and the latest news

Delivered to your inbox monthly

Join the 110,000+ businesses just like yours getting the Swoop newsletter.

Free. No spam. Opt out whenever you like.

We work with world class partners to help us support businesses with finance

Swoop Finance Limited helps UK firms access business finance by working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. We act as a credit broker, not a lender, and do not provide loans or finance products ourselves. We introduce applicants to a panel of lenders, equity funds, and grant agencies based on individual circumstances and creditworthiness.
Commission Disclosure: We typically receive a commission from the finance provider (either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you receive) upon successful placement. Different providers pay different rates. For certain lenders, we may have influence over the interest rate, which can impact the total amount payable under your agreement.
Regulatory Information:

  • FCA: Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker (FRN: 936513) and registered as an Account Information Services Provider (Ref: 833145).

  • ICO: Registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (Ref: ZA600162); registration can be verified at ico.org.uk.

  • Company Details: Registered in England & Wales with Companies House (No. 11163382). Registered Address: The Stable Yard, Vicarage Road, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, MK11 1BN. VAT Number: 300080279.

Terms: All finance and quotes are subject to status, income, and terms and conditions. Applicants must be aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Please refer to our terms and conditions and our complaints procedure for further details.

© Swoop 2026

Looks like you're in . Go to our site to find relevant products for your country. Go to Swoop