The food truck industry is down right exploding, causing big minded and food inspired business entrepreneurs to venture down the path of food on wheels! Food trucks and carts allow flexibility, creativity and diversity, which is why they are becoming so popular throughout the food business industry not only nationwide here in the states, but throughout the world from Australia to Tokyo to Spain. Food trucks are sweeping the world by storm!
Many foodies are turning to open up their own food truck, offering their take on delicious dishes and drinks, but a small overhead and vision will only get these ventures so far. A well thought out business plan is a crucial factor to ensure a business’s success, but in the food truck industry it’s a little different. A properly constructed/maintained truck is a mobile food business owners ideal scenario and essential for a successful food truck business, but unfortunately is not always feasible -yet it is one of the most important factors. We know how difficult it can be to source the perfect truck for your mobile needs, that’s why we put together a little list of tips (below) to help during the scouting and buying process for your rig.
5 Tips For Building or Buying A Food Truck
Power Supply. When it comes to food trucks, food carts, RVs, and the like most manufacturers put in 30 amp power supply. 30 amps is just not enough depending on amount of equipment being ran. Majority of permanent locations and hookups already offer 50 amps, so why not take advantage and supply your operation with every option possible. Not only is 50 amps preferred, but this extra amperage prevents breaker malfunctions, allows specialty equipment (ex. frozen yogurt machine, pizza ovens) to run efficiently, and offers peace of mind.
Plumbing. Take advantage of putting in a bigger water heater instead of an oversized supply tank. Having a sufficient amount of hot water on demand can definitely make the day go smoothly especially when it comes to getting the dishes wrapped up.
NO INSTAHOT WATER HEATERS IN COLD CLIMATES. You would think by the name that this product would be great in cold climates...wrong. During the cold season, the metal of the heat exchanger gets very cold, the water entering the heat exchanger can also be cold with the last 3-18 inches depending on connection from outside to inside, and when mixed with an instant flame or electric heat source it will more than likely result in a crack and complete failure. A big reason these do not work as well in mobile units compared to homes is wall and floor insulation.
Layout and Flow. We have had many food truck modifications due to functionality and workflow. It’s so important for your day to day sanity and work efficiency that a proper workflow is laid out and planned. A prime example is placing a handwashing sink near the order and pick up window, that way when you have to head to the window for customer and food interaction, the ability to wash hands right there vs. walking to the back of the truck/trailer, this causes backtracking or clustering/path crossing.
Codes and Regulations. It’s always important to(know) work with your local government to ensure your business, truck/trailer, location, and the like are up to code. We’ve helped many food trucks get up to code so they can get back up and running, because who likes to work so damn hard, have one little thing wrong, and in return be shut down -meaning no income. So be sure to check out your city’s requirements and codes for the little things like internal grease traps and ansul systems for fire protection. It’s also an important reminder that codes and regulations are constantly changing with how new this industry still is.
Finding a food truck is easy these days, but finding great quality food trucks -now that’s a tough one. At Peace Of Mind Customs it doesn’t have to be, we strive to manufacture and modify high end food trucks, carts, and trailers at affordable prices. We believe your success is ours and are here to advocate and assist in the building/modification process. Give us a call or email to learn how we can make your mobile business dreams come true today!