The startup costs for a food truck may seem intimidating. However, if you create a practical budget and business plan, a food truck can be very profitable.
When creating a budget, you’ll have to consider all the business needs of your food truck. If you’re new to the game, you might not know where to begin.
We’ve got you covered! Below is a comprehensive list of food truck supplies to get you started!
Supplies for Food Prep
Most food truck owners will prep in a commercial kitchen, but chances are you’ll still need a fully-stocked prep station. Some of this equipment is stuff you might already be familiar with from your own kitchen, while other items are more complex.
No matter what you’re serving, you’ll need basic cookware to help you prep in your truck. This includes things such as pots, fry pans, food processors, cutting boards, knives, and other cooking instruments. Your collection of cookware should also include thermometers to ensure all the food you’re preparing is safe and up-to-code.
Selecting the right workstation is also important. Depending on how much space you have, you may have to choose between a full prep counter and stainless steel prep tables.
Cooking Supplies
Many food trucks serve hot foods and require larger pieces of kitchen equipment that will be mounted inside your truck. A grill is perfect for just about any truck selling hot foods. A range is great for anything that needs to be boiled or sautéed.
A fryer is necessary for selling products like fries or onion rings. Charbroilers deliver a grilled flavor to meats but are perfect for veggies as well.
You may choose to install all or just a few of these pieces of cooking equipment depending on the size of your truck and the types of food you plan to serve.
Supplies for Holding Food
If your products require a lot of prep before assembly and selling, you’ll want to have ways to keep them fresh and safe to eat. This is a necessity whether you’re selling hot or cold products.
Refrigerators and freezers are essential for practically every food truck. Many people opt for under-the-counter fridge units to save space. Most of these types of units double as countertop space as well.
Which warming units you choose for your truck will depend on your product. Some people will find that countertop warmers suit their needs, while others will have better luck with heated proofing cabinets that have shelving inside. Other options include soup kettles, food heat lamps, and display warmers.
Additional Food Truck Features
While your customer’s focus will be on your food, as the owner, you need to focus on more than just the product you serve. When designing your food truck supplies list, you’ll have to consider safety and sanitation as well.
Sinks
Washing hands to prevent cross-contamination is a must for all food-centered businesses. You’re required to have a hand-washing sink in your food truck by the health department.
Safety Features
Every food truck owner has to undergo an inspection before they can get a license or permit. You’ll need a functioning exhaust hood and fire suppression system to pass.
Service Window
A service window provides the easiest way to interact with your customers. Make sure to consider its size, as it could affect your available prep space. Furthermore, you should decide whether you’d like to invest in a concession door to cover your windows during bad weather or when you’re not operating.
Taking It to the Streets
A food truck is perfect for people who want to run their own business and prefer a unique work environment. This list of food truck supplies will help novices get their food truck business up off the ground!
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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