When you think about the cost for a food truck, it is important to account for the cost of the kitchen equipment. Some manufacturers, such as Universal Food Trailer, offer fully equipped units adapted to what your menu needs. You can also choose a unit without equipment so you pick the kitchen pieces yourself.
Equipping the commercial kitchen of a food truck in El Paso, Texas costs between 10,000 USD and 20,000 USD on average. That figure varies with the type of menu, whether the equipment is new or used, and the available space. The investment covers cooking, refrigeration, exhaust and stainless steel. Proper planning lets you adjust the budget without sacrificing food safety or quality.
Costs of the main cooking equipment
In the cost for a food truck you have to account for equipment such as fryers, griddles, ranges and grills, since they form the base of the operating budget. A basic industrial cooking package usually costs between 3,000 USD and 8,000 USD. The type of energy you choose directly affects purchase and installation prices, since LP gas equipment is cheaper and more popular in mobile units.
Buying appliances from commercial brands with a warranty reduces mechanical failures down the road, which makes it a worthwhile investment. Avoid household equipment, because health regulations in El Paso, Texas prohibit its professional use. Other items to keep in mind are the following:
Investment in refrigeration and storing supplies
Proper commercial refrigeration runs between 2,500 and 7,000 USD for a food vehicle. You will need upright refrigerators, cold prep tables and holding freezers.
The equipment has to withstand constant vibration on the road without losing cooling capacity. So it is a good idea to choose compact models in stainless steel that make the most of the interior work space.
Check that the doors have high-density airtight seals to avoid energy loss. What you spend on refrigeration protects your raw materials from spoiling early.
Professional exhaust and ventilation system
Installing the hood and the exhaust fan costs between 2,000 and 5,000 USD. This system is essential for safety, thermal comfort and fire department approval. You can even turn to food truck financing to buy a fully equipped unit that meets current code.
The package includes a stainless steel hood, filters that catch grease, ductwork and the rooftop centrifugal exhaust fan. Do not skimp on exhaust capacity if you want to avoid excessive smoke buildup.
Adding an automated fire suppression system will run roughly 2,000 to 4,000 USD more. Many local codes require this equipment before issuing operating permits in El Paso, Texas.
Stainless steel surfaces and the wash area
Setting up the work space with tables, shelving and sinks costs anywhere from 1,500 to 4,000 USD. Surgical-grade stainless steel is mandatory to meet current hygiene standards.
You have to install a three-compartment wash sink and a separate handwashing sink with hot water, then add a water pump and storage tanks to complete the plumbing circuit. Floating shelves and closed cabinets help maximize vertical storage in small kitchens. Keeping things orderly prevents workplace accidents during your busiest selling periods.
Additional equipment and extra installation costs
Professional labor for gas, plumbing and electrical connections in new food trailers for sale costs between 1,500 and 3,500 USD. It matters because certified work guarantees the safety of your staff and customers during service.
Consider buying industrial blenders, slicers, toasters or juicers depending on your menu recipes. These small commercial appliances add between 1,000 and 3,000 USD to the final budget. Set aside a contingency margin of at least ten percent of the estimated total cost. That financial cushion will absorb possible adjustments during assembly or additional licenses.
Universal Food Trailer: fully equipped units at the highest level
The cost for a food truck can vary depending on the equipment your business menu requires. At Universal Food Trailer we design and build fully equipped units of the highest quality on the market. We provide technical advice and personal attention so you have exactly the kitchen pieces you need.
If you would like to know more about our units or request a quote from us, we invite you to contact us by email at info@universalfoodtrailer.com or by phone at (830) 955 8655. We will gladly answer your questions in just a few minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a good idea to buy used kitchen equipment for a food truck?
Yes, buying used equipment in good condition cuts costs by up to forty percent. Make sure you test that it works and verify it still holds the required commercial certification.
Can I use household appliances in a food truck kitchen?
No, health inspectors prohibit household equipment in mobile businesses. Residential appliances cannot handle heavy use and do not guarantee the required temperatures.
What is the most expensive kitchen equipment to install in a food truck?
The air exhaust and fire suppression system is usually the priciest. Its total cost can exceed 8,000 USD because of the certifications required.
How much kitchen space does a simple menu require?
A space three to four meters long is enough for a simplified menu. That fits a basic line of cooking, refrigeration and washing without crowding the cabin.
What type of energy is best for cooking equipment in a food truck?
LP gas is the most efficient and economical option for cooking equipment.
