10 Things to Avoid for When Purchasing a Food Truck

10 Things to Avoid for When Purchasing a Food Truck

Purchasing a food truck is a big investment. As an entrepreneur, you’ll want to ensure that your business will uphold its value for years to come. Here are ten things to watch for when buying a food truck.

1. Inspect the Truck

There are many mechanical factors to consider when purchasing a food truck. The engine, transmission, and body are just a few important components that can be costly to repair. Make sure to hire a professional mechanic to inspect the condition of the truck before purchase.

2. Inspect the Kitchen

Maintenance can be just as costly inside the kitchen as it can on the truck. Along with a mechanic, you’ll want to hire an expert who understands plumbing, electrical, and construction to ensure that the kitchen meets all required health and safety standards.

3. Do a Title Search

Like a Carfax report, you’ll want to research the title to ensure that the truck hasn’t had any major accidents, or worse, is a salvage title.

4. Inspect the Body

A quick visual inspection could tell a story of whether the truck has seen some major damage that your title report missed. Are there major dents? Is there visible rust under the wheel well? Ask your mechanic to walk around the truck with you.

5. Kitchen Space

Does the kitchen have enough space to move freely? How about if there is more than one person on board? Is there room to add additional appliances and storage if needed? You’ll want to ensure that you don’t run into these issues down the line.

6. Is the Truck Wrapped?

If the truck has a vinyl wrap from previous ownership, you’ll want to consider removal as an additional step. This can be a time-consuming and detail-oriented project. Finding a truck with a clean, white body is your best option.

7. Weight and Length

Most jurisdictions have requirements that require the truck’s weight to be under a certain threshold for classification purposes. The length is also important in determining private parking requirements.

8. Research the Seller

Who are you buying the truck from? Is it a builder or the current owner? If it was previously in business, how did it perform? Understanding the reason that someone would sell a food truck is an important part of your due diligence.

9. Research Parking

Another key factor is to determine where and when you can park your food truck. Does your city allow for overnight parking? Or do you need to park it elsewhere after the workday? This step is vital in planning your day-to-day operations.

10. Find a Commissary

Most local laws require that food preparation and storage are handled in a commercial kitchen. This kitchen, or commissary, needs to pass inspection by the health department. Make sure to find a local commissary that’s accepting new clients before purchase.