Breaking Down SG&A Expenses: United Rentals, Inc. vs Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.

A Comparative Analysis of SG&A Expenses: United Rentals vs. Expeditors International

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate finance, understanding the nuances of Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for investors and analysts alike. This analysis delves into the SG&A expenses of two industry giants: United Rentals, Inc. and Expeditors International of Washington, Inc., from 2014 to 2023.

United Rentals, a leader in equipment rental, has seen a consistent upward trend in SG&A expenses, peaking at approximately $1.53 billion in 2023, marking a 102% increase from 2014. This growth reflects the company's strategic expansion and increased operational scale. In contrast, Expeditors International, a global logistics company, experienced a more volatile SG&A trajectory, with expenses fluctuating between $16 million and $45 million. Notably, 2020 marked a significant dip, likely due to pandemic-related disruptions.

This comparative insight underscores the diverse financial strategies and market conditions impacting these two distinct sectors.