Food trucks are an excellent way for people to try new foods and get introduced to new restaurants in their local area. From breakfast and coffee food trucks to sweet desert spots and everything in between, this food delivery method is becoming more popular every year. Food trucks thrive across the state of Florida, especially in larger cities like Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami, and Tampa.
If you want to start a food truck business, expand your existing food truck business, or start a food truck for your restaurant, Florida is an ideal state. But first, you have to buy a new or used food truck in Florida. Keep reading to learn more about how much food trucks cost in Florida, where to buy a food truck, and top food truck tips.
What is the cost of food trucks in Florida?
If you want to start a food truck business, you need to find mobile food trucks for sale in Florida. Purchasing a food truck costs about $50,000 on average, whether new or used with renovations. However, the cost of a food truck can climb to more than $200,000 based on upgrades and equipment.
You can also look for food trucks for lease in Florida. On average, a food truck lease costs about $3,000. The cost of your lease will depend on your lease duration, specific truck, and other features. If a food truck purchase or rental is outside of your budget, you can look into food trailers. While smaller in size, a food trailer for sale in Florida is likely to be less expensive in both the upfront cost and ongoing maintenance.
Where to Buy a Food Truck in Florida
There are many food truck dealers in Florida, including Sizemore Ultimate Food Trucks, Heat Custom Food Trucks, and ADG Food Trucks. Websites like Roaming Hunger, Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally, Used Vending and more offer local listings for new and used food trucks for sale in Florida.
You can also search websites like eBay or craigslist for cheap food trucks for sale in Miami or other Florida cities. Larger cities are more likely to have multiple listings to browse, and you can arrange to see the food truck in person before making a purchase.
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Should you buy a new vs. used food truck in Florida?
There are several advantages to buying both a new or used food truck, and the best options will come down to your specific needs. Your decision will rest heavily on your budget and the amount you are able to invest upfront.
A new food truck in Florida is more costly, but you can customize the vehicle to meet the unique needs of your business. While you invest a considerable amount upfront, you will not have to deal with repairs or maintenance costs for some time. Buying a new truck from food truck dealers in Florida ensures your vehicle is clean and well-maintained. You will also get a warranty to help cover unforeseen repairs.
A used food truck typically costs less than a new model. With the existing retrofitting, you can quickly determine whether or not the layout of the kitchen will work for your business. You may have to invest more money over time for repairs or renovations, but you can start your business without such a large upfront investment.
Popular Florida Food Truck Cities
Food trucks thrive in Florida, and big cities across the state are home to thousands of food trucks. If you want to break into the food truck business or expand your operations, Florida is a great place to start. In the US, Orlando has the most food trucker per capita. The city is very friendly towards trucks, offering affordable permits and operational fees.
Other large cities in Florida, including Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville are food truck hot spots as well. With considerable tourist traffic and a wide range of food, these cities provide the flair and customers food trucks need to be successful.
Florida Food Truck Tips
If you are going to start a food truck in Florida, it is important to do your homework ahead of time. Opening a food truck requires a considerable investment, including the food truck, equipment, and ingredients. Keep reading for important tips for food trucks in Florida.
How much is insurance for a food truck?
The cost of insurance for your food truck will depend on your specific food truck, equipment, and any additional coverage needed. On average, commercial auto insurance costs about $135 per month. You can expect to pay about $1,620 each year for food truck insurance. However, your policy should cover the value of your truck. An insurance policy for food trucks should cost theft and damages.
What permits are needed for a food truck in Florida?
Florida has a specific food service licensing process that reviews your facility for sanitation and safety. You should apply for a Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle Plan Review, which includes the plans and menu for your food truck. The city you are in may also require additional permits, especially when it comes to parking your food truck and serving customers.
Can you prep food in a food truck?
Some cities allow food prep to be done inside a food truck, while others do not allow food prep or storage on the truck. In Florida, food trucks must have a commissary to prep food, store food, and dispose of garbage. The commissary acts as a home base for the food truck, even if the truck is self-sufficient. The state of Florida has considered changing this regulation, so it is important to review the latest rules before starting your own food truck.
Can I sell food from home in Florida?
The Florida Cottage Food Law details which foods can be made and sold from home. Items properly packaged and labeled as “cottage foods” have a lower risk of foodborne illness and are only sold within the state. You do not need a license or permit to sell cottage foods, but there are annual sales limits. Cottage foods cannot be sold for wholesale.
Used Food Trucks for Sale in Florida
Florida is an incredible state for food trucks. With so many major cities attracting both locals and tourists, there is no shortage of opportunities for a new food truck. If you want to start a food truck business in Florida, you will need the right vehicle. Keep reading to learn more about used food trucks for sale in Florida and how to ensure the success of your business.
Benefits of Buying a Used Food Truck Instead of a New One
A new food truck offers a clean and pristine truck with all of the bells and whistles. But, it also comes with a very hefty price tag. If you want to save money when investing in a food truck, consider searching for used mobile food trucks for sale in Florida.
A used food truck will be less expensive, but you may have to pay for some repairs or remodeling to get your truck up and running. You can search for food truck dealers in Florida or view local listings online to find used food trucks for sale. Benefits of buying a used food truck include:
- The cost of purchasing a used food truck is initially less.
- A used food truck will already be retrofitted, so you can determine if the kitchen layout is right for your business.
- You will not have to wait to have the truck customized or outfitted for your business.
- You will not have to decide what equipment to purchase because you are limited to the layout of the truck.
If your startup budget is tight, consider purchasing a used food trailer for sale in Florida. Food trailers are smaller than food trucks, but they can be a great way to start your business. A vehicle is required for towing, but food trailers are easier to store and park to serve customers.
How much does a used food truck cost?
You can find used food trucks to fit almost any price range. If you want a food truck that is ready to operate immediately, you can expect to pay at least $50,000. This includes the cost of purchasing the used food truck and completing any necessary repairs. If you want to customize your used food truck to better suit your business or upgrade the truck, costs can get up to $100,000.
Searching for cheap food trucks for sale in Miami or other Florida cities can be done online. You can find some great deals for food trucks for sale by owner and negotiate a reasonable price. However, there is no guarantee that these trucks will be operable. You may have to invest in repairs to get your food truck up and running.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Food Truck in Florida
If you want to start a food truck business in Florida, you should consider your location. There are several large cities in the state that attract both locals and tourists, creating a bigger audience for your food truck. When searching for used food trucks for sale, look for local listings so you can see the food truck in person before purchasing it.
Price is a huge factor when buying a used food truck in Florida. You have to create a budget for your business before searching for a food truck for sale. Overspending on your food truck can eat into your budget for equipment, insurance and permits, or ingredients.
When buying a food truck, whether new or used, the layout is another important consideration. If you do not want to completely overhaul your food truck, you will have to work with the existing layout. Make sure all of the necessary equipment for your business will fit comfortably in your food truck and you can streamline your operations.
Where can you buy a used food truck in Florida?
There are multiple places to search for used food trucks in Florida. Food truck dealers in Florida offer both new and used food trucks. Used food trucks from a dealership may already be repaired, but they may also cost more. You can also search for cheap food trucks for sale in Florida online. There are many local listings for food trucks for sale by owner. Check out sites like craigslist, eBay, Used Vending, Roaming Hunger, and Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally, and more.
How much does it cost to run a food truck monthly?
In addition to the cost of your food truck, there are multiple monthly expenses to consider when creating your budget. Licenses and permits for your local area can costs thousands each year. You may also have to pay for a permit to participate in local festivals or events.
When operating your food truck, you will have to pay for all of your equipment, including upkeep and maintenance. You will need to stock ingredients and all of the materials needed for your menu. Don’t forget about cups, plates, utensils, and napkins as well. You will also have to pay for gas, insurance, and repairs for your food truck.
Do I need a license to sell homemade food in Florida?
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services allows individuals to produce and sell “cottage foods.” These foods have a low risk of foodborne illness and can be sold directly to consumers. If you want to sell homemade food in Florida, review the list of approved cottage food products. There are also basic laws that regulate cottage foods, including a limit on revenue, selling online, packaging items, and labelling items.
How do I get a food truck permit in Florida?
If you want to operate a food truck in Florida, you will need the necessary permits to get started. Mobile food vendors are regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). You will have to review the permit requirements, complete a letter of agreement, and submit an application for a food establishment inspection application.
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation oversees mobile food vendors that process potentially hazardous foods. It is likely that you will have to go through this agency to procure a license to operate.
Related: Starting a Food Truck Business – What you need to know
