Finding a used food trailer for sale is a great way to get started in the food truck business, but is it your best option? Whether you are looking to purchase your first food used truck or expand your fleet, here are a few good places to start your search…

Where to Begin

The process of buying a food truck is time-consuming. Before you get started it’s important to understand the financial obligation you’re getting yourself into. Although purchasing a used food truck for sale is generally cheaper than starting a restaurant, it’s still not cheap.  You can expect to spend $60,000 to $250,000 on a fully outfitted truck with the majority of purchases falling within the $70,000 to $130,000 range.

Buying New Vs. Buying Used

There are definite advantages and disadvantages of each option, but it comes down to what your budget is and how much you can afford up front.

Advantages of a New Food Truck

• You can customize the food truck to your specifications
• The risk of facing major repairs is less likely
• They are clean and you don’t have to worry about how the previous owner took care of the truck

Disadvantages of Buying a New Food Truck

• New trucks cost more than used food trucks for sale
• You may need to find a source of funding and have good credit in order to obtain it
• Used trucks for sale are generally ready for you to use, so you won’t have to wait for a new one to be customized

Leasing a Truck

Another option you might consider is leasing a food truck. This route works well for entrepreneurs who are new to the foodservice industry or testing the waters with the food truck business. Leasing allows you to make smaller payments over time, which can get you a newer truck without the large upfront cost.  One disadvantage of leasing is the uncertainty of what happens when the lease runs out. If your food truck business is doing well, but your lease expires, then you’re going to need to quit the business or find a new truck to purchase immediately. If you decide to lease a truck, first see if your agreement has a lease renewal or lease-to-own option.

Where To Buy Your Food Truck

Now that you know your budget and have decided whether you want to buy a new food truck, used food truck, or lease, it’s time to find a reputable food truck dealer. While it is an option to purchase from private parties using sites such as Craigslist or eBay, there’s a lot of risks is involved in those choices. With a purchase this large, you want to know every detail about your future food truck.

If going the classified route isn’t the ideal option for you consider purchasing your food truck from a reputable manufacturer like Custom Trailer Pros, plus you’ll be able to fully customize your food truck start to finish.  Customizing your food truck can be stressful but also the most exciting part of your purchase, and if you go with a reputable manufacturer who can advise you on the best options for your business they’ll make the process seamless.

To discuss your options, pricing and financing contact Custom Trailer Pros to get started now!