Labor intensive

Food truck

Sell a focused menu from a mobile kitchen at events, offices and food truck sites.

Last updated

Startup budget$20,000–$90,000 FormatLocal Revenue modelPer sale

01 / Why it can workThe upside

Lower fixed costs than a restaurant and the ability to go where the crowds are.

02 / Watch forThe hard part

Permits, commissary rules, breakdowns and weather make revenue unpredictable.

03 / CostsWhat the first budget covers

Truck purchase or lease, kitchen equipment, permits, commissary and opening inventory. Expect roughly $20,000–$90,000 for a lean first version, before your own living costs.

04 / First customerYour first paying step

Test the menu at a market stall or catered event before buying a truck.

05 / GrowthHow it grows

Add catering and private events, then consider a second truck or a fixed location.

Business snapshot

Food truck scores

Startup difficulty6/10
Operating difficulty8/10
Economic potential4/10
Scalability3/10
Resale potential3/10

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