How to Start a Food Truck Business: Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 12
- 3 min read
Starting a food truck business is an exciting way to enter the food service industry with lower overhead than a traditional restaurant. Whether you're serving gourmet burgers, tacos, coffee, or desserts, food trucks offer flexibility, mobility, and big earning potential.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping food truck businesses protect their operations with tailored food truck insurance. If you're ready to hit the road and serve up success, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you launch your food truck business the right way.
Step 1: Research the Food Truck Industry
Before investing in a truck or equipment, research your local market:
What types of food trucks are popular in your area?
What are the busiest locations and events?
Who is your target customer?
💡 Tip: Use tools like Food Truck Empire to explore trends and success stories.
Step 2: Create a Business Plan
A solid business plan will guide your operations and help you secure financing. Include:
Concept and menu
Target market
Startup and operating costs
Marketing strategy
Revenue projections
Step 3: Choose and Customize Your Food Truck
Your truck is your kitchen, storefront, and brand on wheels. Decide whether to:
Buy new or used
Lease or finance
Customize with kitchen equipment, signage, and branding
💡 Tip: Work with reputable builders like Prestige Food Trucks.
Step 4: Get the Required Licenses and Permits
Food truck regulations vary by city and state. Common requirements include:
Business license
Food handler’s permit
Health department inspection
Fire safety inspection
Parking and vending permits
Step 5: Purchase Equipment and Supplies
Essential food truck equipment may include:
Grills, fryers, ovens, or espresso machines
Refrigeration and prep tables
Generators and propane tanks
POS system and cash drawer
Cleaning and sanitation supplies
💡 Tip: Buy from commercial kitchen suppliers to save on costs.
Step 6: Plan Your Menu
Keep your menu focused, profitable, and easy to prepare in a small space. Consider:
Food cost and prep time
Dietary options (vegan, gluten-free, etc.)
Seasonal or rotating specials
Step 7: Market Your Food Truck
Build buzz before your launch and keep customers coming back:
Create a website and social media pages
Use location-based apps like StreetFoodFinder
Offer loyalty programs and promotions
Attend local events and festivals
Market Your Food Truck Business with Contractor Back Office
Success in the food truck industry depends on more than great food—it requires a strong brand and consistent visibility. Contractor Back Office supports food truck businesses by managing websites, streamlining bookkeeping, and running social media platforms. These tools help promote menus, highlight events, and connect with local customers making it easier to attract foot traffic and build a loyal following.
Step 8: Get Food Truck Insurance
Protect your investment and meet legal requirements with the right insurance. At Wexford Insurance, we help food truck owners find coverage that fits their needs, including:
General Liability Insurance – Covers customer injuries or property damage
Commercial Auto Insurance – Protects your food truck and drivers
Commercial Property Insurance – Covers equipment and inventory
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required if you have employees
Equipment Coverage Insurance – Protects your kitchen gear
Step 9: Launch and Track Your Progress
Once you're licensed, insured, and stocked—it's time to launch! Track your:
Daily sales and expenses
Customer feedback
Best-selling menu items
Event performance
Use this data to refine your strategy and grow your business.
Final Thoughts
Starting a food truck business takes planning, passion, and protection. By following these steps and working with a specialized insurance provider like Wexford Insurance, you’ll be ready to serve up success on wheels.
