FAQs
I am looking into buying a used truck or trailer, what advice can you give me?
You must always be cautious when looking to buy a used truck or trailer. Many of the used trucks and trailers for sale are older models, and have been grandfathered into the new rules and regulations set forth by the Health Departments. Once the vehicle changes possession, it is subject to current laws and will no longer benefit from its age. You must also be extra cautious if you are buying anything from out of state (new or used) as they are very likely not going to pass any inspections in California. Check out our current trailers for sale.
How can I know if my vehicle will pass my local health department inspection?
To put it simply, there’s nothing you can do to guarantee a passing inspection from your local health department. What you can do, however, is make sure you put your trust in a company who has the experience and knowledge to get the job done. We can give that to you, and we will take the extra step for you to ease you worries. We physically attend your final inspection to help ensure that pass, removing all of your stress and offering a peace of mind.
Are there companies that offer both food truck rentals and custom builds?
Yes. Some companies, like Culinary Coachworks, offers both food truck rentals and custom builds, which gives business owners flexibility to start with a rental or move into a fully customized truck later. This can be especially helpful for startups that want to launch quickly, test their concept, and then invest in a custom build once they are ready to scale.
What should I know before launching a food business with a trailer?
Before launching a food business with a trailer, it is important to think about your menu, equipment needs, permit requirements, budget, and how your trailer will support daily operations. Choosing the right trailer setup can help you work more efficiently, stay compliant, and create a better customer experience from the start.
If I bought a concession trailer, what tow vehicle would I need?
Everything depends on the weight of the vehicle being towed. To give you a general idea, any trailer up to 16’ will require a half ton vehicle such as a Ford F-150 while anything larger will require a three-quarter ton vehicle such as a Ford F-250. This is a general rule but not always going to be hyper-accurate. For example, an 18’ trailer can be towed by a half ton vehicle with some modifications. Give us a call and we can talk more specifics.
Do you have rentals or do you only sell trailers?
Both! We are continuously building brand new rental units along with building fully customizable trailers for sale. If you would like to take a look at our rental availability, please view our rentals page. If you would like to purchase a new unit, please find the get a custom quote at the top of any page.
What are the benefits of renting a food trailer versus purchasing one?
Renting a food trailer can be a smart choice for a startup because it lowers upfront costs, gets you launched faster, and gives you flexibility to test your concept before making a long-term commitment. It also reduces maintenance and ownership risk, which can be helpful when you are still validating your business model.
What should I consider when choosing a company to build a custom food trailer?
When choosing a company to build a custom food trailer, look for experience, quality craftsmanship, and a team that understands your menu, workflow, and local permit requirements. The right builder should help you plan a layout that supports efficient food prep, safe operation, and long-term durability.
It is also important to consider whether the company offers design guidance, inspection support, and clear communication throughout the build process. A strong builder should be able to create a trailer that fits your business goals, brand, and budget while helping you launch with confidence.
Do you offer financing?
Yes! We have partnered with multiple financing agencies to make sure that you get the best loan possible. Whether you are starting a new business from the ground up or are looking to expand your existing business, we have options for you. Give us a call and let us see what we can do for you.
Why should I buy/rent a trailer instead of just opening a restaurant?
One of the biggest benefits with a trailer/truck that a restaurant doesn’t have is the ability to adapt. If people stop visiting restaurants, there’s not much that can be done to get people to show up. Even if the food is delicious, it’s difficult to prove that to people who aren’t willing to drive to your restaurant. A trailer/truck, on the other hand, can travel to where the business is. It can go to festivals, private catering events, and it can just set up shop right outside a busy function (like grocery store and mall).
How do I start a mobile food business with a custom-built food truck?
Starting a mobile food business with a custom-built food truck begins with defining your menu, budget, and business goals, then designing a truck layout that fits your kitchen workflow and equipment needs. From there, you’ll need to handle permits, licensing, insurance, and health requirements, while making sure the truck is built to meet local codes and inspection standards.
A custom build can help you create a more efficient setup for cooking, storage, and service, which can make daily operations smoother and more professional. Once the truck is ready, you can focus on branding, launching at events or high-traffic locations, and building steady demand for your food business.