Article

Buying a food truck: Advice, insight on customization, design and decor

In this second part of a two-part series readers get tips about customization, design and decor for that newly-purchased food truck.

Photo by istock.com

March 9, 2020 by Richard Traylor — Writer, WebstaurantStore

In this second part of a two-part series on buying a food truck readers are offered advice and insight on the tough decisions involved when purchasing the vehicle needed.

You've figured out what kind of truck and how much you will spend.Now it's time to get into more complex details of having the food truck customized.

Customizing your food truck

When making a purchase this large, you should have a solid idea of the food truck equipment you'd like to install. The main factor that determines the layout of your truck is the cuisine you're offering. While the most common items to be included in a food truck are flat grills, countertop fryers, food  warmers, refrigerators, and freezers, each truck will differ. For example, a food truck specializing in pizza would need a pizza oven and possibly an extra generator or propane tank, whereas a coffee truck would benefit from having an extra supply of hot water. Be sure your layout provides enough space for other food truck supplies, too.

Size

Size is another factor to consider when purchasing a food truck. You need to make sure you choose a vehicle that's large enough to accommodate your kitchen layout, ingredient storage needs, and staff members. Many companies can transform anything, from step van chassis and sprinter vans to passenger vans and RVs, into a fully functioning food truck.

Gas vs. diesel

You will also need to decide whether you want to go with a gas or diesel engine for your food truck. There are many pros and cons to each type, so it ultimately depends on your personal preference. Overall, many food truck owners prefer a diesel engine because of how powerful it is, but you have to be prepared for that slightly larger initial investment.

While gasoline is cheaper than diesel fuel, diesel has a greater fuel economy. Gas engines will run more quietly and have a less noticeable odor, whereas diesel engines provide you with unmatched power. If properly maintained, a diesel engine can easily go for 300,000 miles. Also, when maintenance is required, gas engines are typically cheaper; however, since diesel engines tend to last longer, you'll get a better resale price if you ever decide to sell your food truck.

Special features

Finally, when customizing your food truck, you get to pick the special features that will make it your own unique restaurant on wheels. Whether you're adding special equipment to the interior of the truck to make food prep more efficient, or you're adding aesthetic details to the exterior to make your truck more visually appealing to customers, you're sure to find a dealer that can work with your vision. Check out some accessories you can add to your truck:

Truck Exterior

Security awning. This locking security awning will protect the contents of your food truck when not in use. This awning is usually a sliding piece that covers windows, doors, and any external TVs, speakers, or other devices to protect them from vandalism. This awning also matches the design of the rest of the truck and can be used to provide extra branding space.

Flat Panel TV. Add a flat panel television to the exterior of your food truck so you can market your menu, specials, locations, and other important information. Or, use it to play music.

Speakers. By adding on speakers, you can play some tunes to keep your long line of customers entertained.

Retractable awning. Give your truck a more intimate feel by adding on a manual or electric awning. These items also provide shelter to your customers who are waiting at your serving window. You can even find longer awnings that will protect patrons in line from the rain, snow, or brightly shining sun. Additionally, an awning creates a slight sound barrier that allows workers to hear customers' orders more clearly.

Misting system. This feature is perfect for the summer months or for food trucks in areas where the climate is hot year round. These units are typically installed above the exterior serving window to keep customers cool while they wait.

Vinyl wrap. Many businesses have designers who work with clients to create their own personal logo or image. This is then transferred onto a vinyl wrapping that goes around the entire truck for branding. These wrappings can include graphics, menus, business names, and any other advertising materials, and they will include the proper cutouts for windows and serving windows.

Perforated window film. Window perforation allows your logo or decal to continue onto the exterior of your windows. This allows customers to see the image, but also enables employees to still see clearly out the window.

Dual-service. Many truck owners want to have service stations on both sides of the truck so they can maximize volume and service.

Buying a food truck involves a lot of research, time, money, and communication, but if you follow the steps outlined above, the process will be easier, less time-consuming, and run more smoothly. And, remember, starting a food truck business requires a lot of money up front, but if you are successful, then you're sure to profit.

About Richard Traylor

---

Richard Traylor graduated from Temple University in the winter of 2014 with a degree in Strategic Communications. After graduating, he taught English in South Korea for two years, during which he was fortunate enough to travel and see the world. In October 2016, he returned home and started to work in SEO Content at Webstaurant Store. This blog previously ran on Webstaurant Store.

Connect with Richard: