Many people dream about having their own restaurant although the investment can be high. Of the many factors to consider like overhead costs, finding the right location, renting space, decorating and redesigning the space, hiring employees, and so on, it’s no wonder for most people their dream does not become a reality. However, there’s no need to worry just yet.
Restaurants on wheels (food trucks or food trailers) have taken the world by storm and they are a great way to get your business started with a smaller investment. Instead of investing in a brick and mortar location, it may be more practical to invest in an enclosed trailer and convert it to suit your mobile restaurant’s needs.
If this is an option that interests you, keep reading to learn about a few important things you should consider before you start shopping for your trailer.
- Research your local food truck and trailer market
You want to make sure your idea will stand out against the competition. Research your city to find out:
- Existing food truck businesses and concepts
- Existing restaurant concepts
- The demographic of your location and some surrounding areas
- Locations and events where food trucks can stop and sell their products
- Areas you can store your food truck when not in use
- Permits for location use from your local municipality
Try to find out if there is a demand in your local area for your restaurant concept or for food trucks in general.
- Choose Your Concept
It is most beneficial to cater your concept to the interests of the population in your area, but you still want to give yourself the freedom to share your interests as well. If possible, marry these two factors together and you’ll likely come up with a great idea. From there you can select your restaurant’s name and logo that reflect your vision.
Keep these three things in mind when considering your options:
- Be unique and memorable
- Be descriptive and attention-grabbing yet avoid being too wordy
- Aim to clearly express your intentions without being too specific so you allow for growth
A subsection of choosing your concept is to customize your trailer. A well thought out concept can make a major impact on whether customers choose to shop from your truck and move on to the next one. Choose the best method that will help you stand out from the crowd while maintaining professionalism and quality. You have many options for how you can customize your enclosed trailer. Click here to read more about them.
- Get Your Licenses/Permits
Your trailer must comply with the healthy department regulations in your area. You’ll need to explore what licenses are needed to start your business. Food truck and trailer permits and licenses can vary at the state and city levels, so it is highly important that you check with your local jurisdiction to find out their requirements.
At minimum, you will need:
- Business license
- Employer identification number
- Food service license
- Employee health permit
You will also probably need permits specific to food trucks:
- Mobile food facility permit
- Zoning and parking permit
- Buy Your Enclosed Trailer
Considering the majority of your startup costs will be allocated to your food trailer, you need to select one that will serve your business well. There are many factors to consider when choosing a trailer, such as deciding between a new or used trailer, choosing what customizations you will need, and finding a reputable trailer manufacturer.
- Bring Your Trailer Up to Code
Your food truck or trailer needs to produce your products and operate efficiently, so you need to furnish it with the equipment and supplies to make that possible. Here’s a list of some equipment you’ll need:
- Cooking Equipment: ovens, grills, fryers, microwaves
- Warming and Cooling Equipment: food warmers, refrigeration, ice machines
- Preparation Equipment: work tables, cutting boards, cookware, food processors, kitchen utensils
- Serving Equipment: disposable take-out supplies, napkins, cups
- Storage and Transport Equipment: shelving and storage containers
- Safety Equipment: fire extinguisher, first aid kits
- Cleaning Equipment: hand sinks, sanitizing chemicals, trash cans, floor mats
If You’re Ready to Start Your Food Trailer Business, Call Us
After reading this article, if you decided starting a food trailer business is a favorable idea, talk to us. We can help answer any questions you may have to make the process easier. Primo Trailers is the best aluminum utility trailer manufacturer offering a wide range of products including enclosed trailers. We encourage you to check out our website at www.primotrailer.com to learn more about our products and reach out to our sales team.
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