How Much Does It Cost to Start a Food Truck Business?

If you’ve been dreaming of serving up street food from your very own food truck, you’re not alone. The mobile food scene in the UK is buzzing – from bustling city streets to rural festivals, food trucks are a popular and flexible way to start a small business. But how much does it actually cost to get a food truck business up and running?

Here’s a down-to-earth look at the real costs of starting a food truck in the UK, with tips on where you can save and what you really shouldn’t cut corners on.

The Cost of Starting a Food Truck Business: The Basics

When setting up a food truck, there are a few main areas you’ll need to budget for:

• The Food Truck Itself
• Equipment and Fit-Out
• Licences and Permits
• Branding and Marketing
• Initial Stock and Supplies
• Insurance
• Ongoing Costs

Let’s break it all down.

1. Buying the Food Truck

Cost: £5,000 – £50,000+

The biggest upfront cost is your vehicle. You’ve got three options:

• Buy a second-hand van or trailer – Cheaper, especially if you’re handy and can renovate it yourself. Expect to pay from £5,000 to £20,000.
• Buy a ready-to-go fitted truck – Prices usually start at around £20,000 and can go well over £50,000 for high-end models.
• Lease a food truck – Monthly payments vary, but it’s less of a lump sum upfront.

Think about your menu – if you’re serving pizza, for example, you’ll need room for an oven. Burgers? You’ll need a grill and a fridge. The truck needs to match your food concept.

2. Equipment and Fit-Out

Cost: £2,000 – £15,000

If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll need to fit the van with cooking equipment, fridges, sinks, water tanks, storage and worktops. Even second-hand gear adds up.

You’ll also need:

• A power source (usually a generator)
• Gas and electrical safety checks
• Fire extinguishers and first aid kits

Some trucks come pre-fitted, but if not, this can be a hefty part of your setup cost.

3. Licences and Permits

Cost: £300 – £1,000+

You’ll need to register as a food business with your local council at least 28 days before trading. Other licences and checks include:

• Street trading licence (cost varies by council – can be £20–£1,000/year)
• Food hygiene certificate (free to around £150 depending on the course)
• Public liability insurance ( can be £150 -£550/ per year )
• Gas and electric safety certificates ( can be £155- £450 )

Always check with your local authority – requirements vary across the UK.

4. Branding and Marketing

Cost: £500 – £3,000

A strong brand helps you stand out. This covers:

• Vehicle signage or wrap
• Logo and menu design
• Website and social media setup
• Business cards, flyers, loyalty cards

You can DIY much of this to cut costs, but investing in a professional look can go a long way in attracting customers.

5. Initial Stock and Supplies

Cost: £500 – £2,000

You’ll need to stock up on ingredients, packaging, and other essentials before your first trading day. Buy in bulk where you can, and keep a close eye on food waste and portion control.

6. Insurance

Cost: £300 – £1,200/year

Insurance isn’t just important – it’s essential. You’ll likely need:

• Public liability insurance
• Product liability
• Employers’ liability (if hiring staff)
• Vehicle and equipment insurance

Prices vary depending on your setup and coverage.

7. Ongoing Running Costs

Don’t forget the regular expenses. These include:

• Fuel and generator costs
• Restocking ingredients
• Staff wages (if applicable)
• Maintenance and repairs
• Event fees or pitch rentals
• Marketing and admin tools

Ongoing monthly costs can range from £500 to £3,000, depending on how and where you operate.

So, What’s the Total Cost?

On average, most people spend between £10,000 and £35,000 to start a food truck business in the UK.

Here’s a rough guide:

Budget Level	Estimated Cost
Budget Start-up	£10,000–£15,000
Mid-Range Setup	£20,000–£30,000
Premium Setup	£35,000–£50,000+

It’s possible to start smaller, especially if you go second-hand and do the work yourself. But it’s wise to have a financial buffer – cash flow can be unpredictable early on.

The Bottom Line

Starting a food truck business in the UK isn’t cheap, but it can be a rewarding and flexible way to run your own show. The key is to be realistic with your budget, plan carefully, and don’t skip essential costs like insurance or proper equipment.

Before you spend a penny, research your local area, test your menu, and create a solid business plan. With the right approach and a bit of hustle, your food truck could soon be feeding happy customers across the country.

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