If you’re starting your own mobile food business shopping for a used concession trailer is a good place to start. There are so many things to consider when looking for the best-used concession trailer that it can be overwhelming. Prices on used trailers can be significantly lower, which means you may be able to find one you can afford without a bank loan. Used trailers often come with equipment already installed – another money-saving benefit. Once you’ve determined your budget, use these tips to keep track of the factors you should keep in mind in your search.
Space and ConfigurationIt can be challenging to navigate the various types of used concession trailers available – there are so many options and configurations. Really think about the space and storage that you’ll need for your particular food trailer. The last thing you want to do is purchase a concession trailer that doesn’t meet your specific needs. Visualize an [...]
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 BeginThe 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 UsedThere 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 [...]Preparing a new concession trailer for business can be a very daunting task. They need many of the same equipment and supplies as full-sized restaurants…in a fraction of the space. Therefore, they require meticulous planning and designing.
There are many factors to consider when outfitting your new food trailer with equipment. Things such as your power source, your hood space and most importantly, your local health regulations. We’ve outlined a few things that you should be thinking about when designing and equipping your new concession trailer.
Food StorageFood storage equipment will ensure that all of your food is properly stored in compliance with health code regulations. You will need a refrigerator and a freezer to store perishable items that need to be kept cold or frozen prior to preparation.
Before you buy your refrigerator or freezer, check your local health code. Many cities and states have requirements that your appliances must meet. Additionally, you will [...]
You’ve mapped out your concession trailer strategy. You know exactly what you want to sell and where you want to sell it.
But before you hit the road, you need to make sure your mobile business has the proper certifications and permits you need to operate legally.
Make Sure You Obtain These Concession Trailer PermitsThere may be some exceptions, but most food trailer businesses need to get at least these six certifications and permits to stay within the law.
1. General Business LicenseYour concession trailer is considered a business, so you need to obtain a general business license that covers your home location as well as any city where you might be selling.
2. Food Service and Food Safety PermitsAny business that prepares, cooks, or sells food – that means your food trailer – must obtain food service and food safety permits from their local county.
So, you have your own concession trailer. Now what?
You need customers, and marketing your new concession trailer business is a top priority.
What that means is marketing and doing it the right way. You must find your own path, while also keeping up with the times. It’s a sticky situation, but with the right tips, your food trailer can grow faster than spinach does.
Luckily, the folks at Custom Trailer Pros have you covered. Read on for an inside look at increasing your business the right way!
Pick an Eye-Grabbing Name and Logo
This is one of the hardest, yet best, ways to garner attention. If you’re serving kebabs, having a name like “Jon’s Kebabs” isn’t going to knock the socks off anyone.
Some good ideas that involve the potential consumers include having a fan vote via social media or opening a crowdfunding [...]