Legal Definitions - tangible asset

A tangible asset refers to something of value that an individual or organization owns and that has a physical form. These assets can be touched, seen, and physically possessed. They are distinct from "intangible assets," which represent non-physical rights or intellectual property, such as patents or trademarks. Tangible assets commonly include real estate, equipment, inventory, vehicles, and cash.

• Example 1: A local bakery owns its storefront building, the ovens, mixers, and display cases inside, and the flour and sugar stored in its pantry.
  Explanation: The building, ovens, mixers, display cases, flour, and sugar are all physical items that the bakery possesses and uses to operate its business. They have a measurable value and can be physically touched and seen, making them tangible assets.
• Example 2: An individual owns a classic car, a collection of antique coins, and a plot of land in the countryside.
  Explanation: The classic car is a physical vehicle, the antique coins are physical objects with intrinsic and collectible value, and the plot of land is a physical piece of real estate. All these items are owned by the individual, have value, and exist in a physical form, qualifying them as tangible assets.
• Example 3: A construction company possesses a fleet of excavators, bulldozers, and dump trucks, along with a warehouse full of building materials like steel beams and concrete bags.
  Explanation: The heavy machinery (excavators, bulldozers, dump trucks) are physical pieces of equipment essential for the company's operations. Similarly, the steel beams and concrete bags are physical goods held as inventory. All these items are owned by the company, have significant value, and are physically present, making them tangible assets.