What Catering Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Aug 28, 2025
- 2 min read
Starting a catering business is exciting—but it also comes with a long checklist. One of the first questions new caterers ask is: “What equipment do I need to get started?” Choosing the right tools from day one can save you money, improve efficiency, and help you deliver a professional experience at weddings, corporate events, and special occasions.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping catering businesses protect their investments with tailored insurance coverage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential catering equipment to buy first, and how to protect it with the right insurance.
Essential Catering Equipment to Buy First
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have items to get your catering business off the ground:
1. Commercial Food Prep Equipment
You’ll need reliable tools to prepare large quantities of food efficiently:
Cutting boards, knives, mixing bowls
Commercial mixers and food processors
Prep tables and stainless steel surfaces
🔗 Read more: Guide to commercial kitchen equipment
2. Cooking Equipment
Depending on your menu and service style, consider:
Commercial ovens and stovetops
Portable burners or induction cookers
Grills or smokers (for outdoor events)
🧯 Tip: Make sure your cooking equipment complies with local fire safety regulations.
3. Food Holding and Warming Equipment
Keeping food hot and fresh is critical:
Chafing dishes and steam tables
Insulated food carriers
Hot boxes and warming cabinets
🔗 Explore best food warming equipment for caterers
4. Serving and Display Gear
Presentation matters—especially at weddings and corporate events:
Serving trays and utensils
Beverage dispensers
Buffet tables and tablecloths
🧠 Pro Tip: Invest in reusable, high-quality serving gear to reduce long-term costs.
5. Transportation Equipment
You’ll need to move food, gear, and staff safely:
Catering vans or trucks
Insulated delivery bags
Rolling carts and dollies
🔗 Read more: Choosing the right catering vehicle
6. Cleaning and Sanitation Supplies
Health and safety are non-negotiable:
Dishwashing stations or portable sinks
Sanitizers and cleaning chemicals
Trash bins and liners
🧼 Tip: Stay compliant with local health department regulations.
Protect Your Equipment with Catering Business Insurance
Your equipment is a major investment—and it’s vulnerable to theft, damage, and accidents. That’s why smart caterers work with insurance programs designed for the food service industry.
At Wexford Insurance, we help catering businesses find coverage that fits their needs. Here are five types of insurance to consider:
Protects against claims of injury or property damage at events.
Covers vehicles used to transport food and equipment.
Covers damage to your kitchen, storage space, or office.
Covers employee injuries and lost wages.
Protects your catering gear from theft, damage, or loss—whether on-site or in transit.
Final Thoughts
Starting a catering business means making smart decisions from the beginning. Investing in the right equipment—and protecting it with specialized insurance—sets you up for long-term success.
Need help insuring your catering business?
Visit Wexford Insurance to explore our tailored insurance programs for catering professionals.
