Photo by TJ Dragotta on Unsplash
Back when the 2008 recession hit, lost wages combined with the prohibitive cost of property investment meant entrepreneurs had to get creative with how they started businesses. Food trucks became a great way for people from all backgrounds to make a living, provide affordable meals, and share delicious food with others.
Since then, the food truck industry has taken off. Are you hoping to join the ranks of successful food truck chefs?
Before you head out onto the road, be sure to read about these common food truck myths.
1. Park Anywhere
Food trucks are governed by the same traffic laws as ordinary citizens. Some cities have even tighter regulations on food truck parking.
Check your local ordinances and see if there are special designations or time limits for food trucks. It’s also always best to check with building management before parking in a lot.
2. Bad for the Environment
It isn’t good for the environment when a truck is constantly driving around. Fuel consumption and emissions are a big concern for our climate.
Fortunately, food trucks are parked more than they are driving. Restaurants with permanent locations may actually pollute the environment more.
Energy consumption and employees driving to a permanent restaurant location exceeds the pollution of a food truck. Myths about the environment might have been started because of the competitive rivalry between food trucks and restaurants.
3. Investors for a Food Truck
A big myth circulating the industry is the need for investors. Most food trucks start without investors.
Some owners are able to attract investors, and this makes a startup food truck easier. But don’t let a lack of investors halt your food truck dreams.
4. No Rent
Many people believe food truck owners don’t have to pay rent. This might be true, but truck owners still have other fixed expenses.
You will still have to pay for permits, fuel, licenses, maintenance, and staff. You can also get tickets or towed if you aren’t careful, so it’s helpful to keep money set aside for emergency expenses.
5. Popular Spots
Food trucks can be wildly successful without ever visiting a popular shopping or entertainment location. These spots can actually be too full of other food options.
Many successful food trucks are able to make a good profit by visiting business parks and college campuses. A large factory may allow a food truck to set up near the front entrance.
As long as there are lots of people, a truck owner will have the opportunity to feed hungry mouths.
6. Experience Makes a Master
Have you worked in a food truck? This doesn’t mean you are ready to own one.
Working in the growing industry gives you a strategic advantage over someone who hasn’t, but it doesn’t mean you’re ready to run the business.
Like any business, owners are constantly working on their business even after close. You will be in charge of marketing, business development, creating the menu, and bookkeeping, so make sure you understand all the ins and outs before buying a truck.
7. You’ll Get Rich Quick
Food trucks can make plenty of profit, but they also have expenses. The amount of work you put in is how much money you can make.
The food truck business is not a get-rich-quick scheme. You will spend long hours on the road and at events, but you’ll be cooking food you love for tons of people.
Get Rolling
These myths about the food truck business shouldn’t scare you. Now that we’ve cleared them up, it’s time to rely on your expertise and culinary creativity to push you to success.
Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!
Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.
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