Although a good percentage of food trucks in the United States today are 16 feet long and 7 feet wide, food trucks generally tend to span around 10 – 26 feet long in size.
Simply put, a food truck is the combination of a motor vehicle and a kitchen and is widely regarded as the most popular mobile food vehicle in the world. These trucks are used for many purposes but mainly to vend culinary varieties to pedestrians.
Food trucks generally span around 10 – 26 feet long with an average width of 7 feet to adequately fit staff and kitchen equipment. However, when making this decision, ensure you pick a truck size that would be adequate enough for your kitchen appliances, and storage needs.
Regardless of the size of truck you need, you will definitely find mobile kitchen manufacturers who are experts and will give you what you want.
Even if you want small trucks like sprinter vans, passenger vans, and even recreational vehicles, aside from the ever-popular step van configuration, there are manufacturers to patronize. Food truck sizes normally span from 14 up to 24 feet, but you can have one built as small as 10 feet.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Food Truck Size
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Local Legal Requirements
Just as was noted above, cities and counties tend to have guidelines that regulate the right size of trucks in their jurisdiction. For instance, within the city of Madison, Wisconsin, the size of a food truck is prohibited from going past 10 feet by 12 feet (10′ X 12′).
Note that even trucks from nearby cities like Middleton and Fitchburg must conform to those regulations before they can carry out business within Madison. Have it in mind that this is one critical reason why it is imperative to research the requirements for any new city or county you intend to vend in.
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What You Are Serving
This is another important factor that will dictate the size of your food truck. For instance, if your plan is to serve ice cream alone, then you can work with a small 10ft truck.
Howbeit, if your food truck is centered on catering at large events and corporate occasions, then you will have to consider a larger truck that will give you the necessary space to store items. Aside from the space for storing the fresh ingredients, you’ll also require space to make your menu.
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How Many People Will You Serve
Note that aside from what you intend to serve and the combination of your menu, it is important to also consider the number of people you intend to serve. If your intention is to only serve a handful of people a day, you will require less space when compared to when you intend to vend from a food truck park in Portland.
Even though it can be quite challenging to estimate the number of patrons you will cater to, it is recommended you visit your intended location at different times of the day to note the foot traffic.
The size of your food truck should ensure that your employees can move freely. Food trucks are most often limited to three employees and in some cases four; however, note that the more you have, the more difficult it is for them to move around.
Nevertheless, if you choose to work with a large food truck, you can employ as many employees as you find necessary since your truck offers you the space and resources you need to accommodate them.
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Branding
It is imperative you realize from the very beginning that the size of your truck will impact how you brand your truck. Have it in mind that a larger food truck will give you enough space for your logo and other designs and concepts. Meanwhile, a much smaller truck might be more attractive to customers who are looking for a more intimate dining experience.
You should also consider the layout you want for your truck and how you want your kitchen and appliances when choosing the size of your truck. Have in mind that the layout of your truck will have an impact on your truck’s food preparation, storage, and service.
It is necessary to take your time to understand how you intend to utilize your food truck and the sort of layout that will enable you to achieve that aim.
In the United States, a good percentage of food trucks are 16 feet long and 7 feet wide. This size is quite versatile and will most definitely give you the room you need to customize your layout to suit your needs. It also offers a nice combination of sizes without being so large that you feel like you’re driving an 18-wheeler.
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Mobility
One of the most noticeable benefits of the food truck business is its mobility; as such, it is important you take into account the mobility needs of your truck when choosing the appropriate size for your truck. If your plan is to always be on the move, then you should consider going for a small truck that will work better than a much larger truck.
Also, note that a small truck will ensure that you can seamlessly fit in a vast variety of public spaces. It allows you to vend from a Food truck park filled with food trucks, park it on the side of a narrow street, or drive to private areas with tiny pavements.
Conclusion
Truth be told, the food truck industry is enjoying massive growth, and it isn’t difficult to see why. These trucks are used for many purposes but mainly to vend culinary varieties to pedestrians. Nevertheless, when starting the business, ensure you pick a truck size that would be adequate enough to contain your kitchen appliances, and storage needs, as well as ensure that your employees can move freely.