How Much Does It Cost to Start a Coffee Truck?

Setting Up Your Mobile Coffee Business

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Coffee Truck?

If you are thinking about starting a coffee truck, one of the first questions is: how much does it cost? Starting a coffee truck is a potentially profitable coffee business that often enjoys lower startup costs than your traditional brick-and-mortar coffee shop. But starting a coffee truck still requires funding.

The more prepared you are to handle the necessary expenditures, the better. The better you budget, the far likelier you’ll save money. So, let us look at a detailed breakdown of the elements involved when starting a coffee truck in the American market.

I know a few of you just want the straight-up answer – how much does a coffee truck business cost?

The base cost for starting a coffee truck ranges between $15,000 – $100,000. Let me explain below.

Costs of Starting a Coffee Truck

Let's look at general cost estimates for starting a coffee truck business in the United States. Remember that these estimates vary from region to region and city to city and depend on several other factors.

New Coffee Truck or Coffee Trailer – Base Vehicle Cost

Small coffee truck cost:       $15,000 – $35,000

Medium coffee truck cost:   $20,000 –  $60,000

Large coffee truck cost:      $30,000 – $100,000

Used Coffee Truck or Coffee Trailer – Base Vehicle Cost

Small coffee truck cost:       $8,000 – $20,000

Medium coffee truck cost:   $15,000 -$50,000

Large coffee truck cost:      $25,000 – $75,000

Used Truck or Trailer Costs (To be Refurbished for Serving Coffee) Base Vehicle Cost

Small truck/trailer:      $0 – $10,000

Medium truck/trailer:  $0 – $15,000

Large truck/trailer:      $0 – $25,000

Why do I add zero ($0) to the cost of a used truck?

I have known people who have gotten free trailers or trucks simply by removing them from their owners’ property! There may be a cost in towing or updating (clearing) the vehicle title, but essentially, they have gotten their base vehicle free.

Most of the time, there is a strong reason why the owner is giving these trailers or trucks away – they require a lot of work and investment! Yet, you might have a grandpa with a camper rotting away in his driveway who would pay you to get rid of it!

Other Mobile Coffee Truck Costs

The cost of a mobile business isn’t just the financial impact of purchasing a truck or trailer. There are many other relevant and essential costs.

Let’s take a look at some of the potential costs for starting a coffee truck business below.

 Coffee Shop Startups

Coffee Truck Cost Factors:

1. Market Research and Business Planning

Your initial research and taking the time to analyze the market will require some nominal but essential funding. Investing in developing your knowledge and getting help with initial consults can vary. This could mean investing in our affordable Mobile Coffee Business Guide or utilizing our coffee truck consulting services. You may decide to attend seminars, live in-person courses, or events.

Market Research and Business Planning: $500 – $3,000

2. Coffee Truck Purchase

Obtaining your mobile coffee truck (or unit) can take up a significant portion of your budget.

As listed above, you have options for the type and size of coffee truck you’ll want to obtain. You may likely spend additional funds on the buildout to fit your needs and the requirements of your local buildings and health departments.

If you buy a new truck or trailer, you may not need to spend initial money for it to get “up and running.” However, you will likely need to pay for customized equipment installations, contract work, and inspection fees.

Coffee Truck Purchase or Lease: $15,000 – $100,000

Of course, buying a used truck could be cheaper (around $20,000 – $40,000), while a new customized truck might cost upwards of $75,000 – $100,000. Additionally, leasing options vary widely.

Your coffee truck buildout can cost anywhere from $3,000 – $20,000.

3. Coffee Equipment and Supplies

Your coffee equipment will be a significant cost category. Espresso machines aren’t cheap, and finding the right one to fit your specific mobile coffee needs may require you to spend a little more.

Whereas in a brick-and-mortar café, you might have more wiggle room with the type of coffee shop equipment you choose, you might have to be more selective with your mobile coffee equipment. Weight, size, and ability to secure it properly are all just as important.

Further Reading: How to Start a Coffee Trailer Business

Essential Coffee Equipment to Purchase

• Espresso machine
• Coffee grinders
• Refrigeration units
• Water filtration systems
• Additional Supplies
• Cups, lids, straws, napkins
• Coffee beans and ingredients
• Point of Sale (POS) Systems
• Cash registers or digital POS systems
• Payment processing fees

Essential coffee-making equipment, refrigeration, and initial inventory of consumables.

Equipment and Supplies: $10,000 – $20,000

4. Coffee Truck Licensing and Permits

It will be necessary to budget for your licensing and permits. This will include the following for mobile coffee businesses:

• Business Licenses
• General business license
• Food truck-specific permits
• Health Department Permits
• Health inspections
• Food handler’s permits
• Other Permits

Utilizing the help of a consultant or a contract worker to help ensure you can pass your inspections may add up to several thousand dollars.

Estimated permit and license costs: $500 – $2000

With estimated contractor labor: $500 – $5,000

How Much Does a Coffee Truck Business Cost?

5. Initial Mobile Coffee Business Inventory

Your initial inventory can be more expensive to get you fully stocked and ready to go. Investing in syrups and cleaning supplies may initially take up a more significant portion of your inventory cash, but it will set you on the path to making money. After all, your inventory is where you’ll make your money.

Some mobile coffee inventory examples include:

• Coffee Beans and Ingredients
• Various types of coffee beans
• Milk, syrups, flavorings
• Consumables
• Cups, lids, sleeves, stirrers
• Cleaning supplies

Initial inventory: $1,000 – $3,000

6. Mobile Coffee Marketing and Promotion

Marketing and promotion should be included in your mobile coffee starting and operational budgets. However, you will have some initial marketing that will add to the upfront cost. These costs aren’t frivolous. You’ll need to invest in your marketing and promotion from the get-go.

• Brand development
• Logo and branding materials
• Exterior paint or truck wrap
• Website development
• Social media marketing
• Local advertising (flyers, local media)
• Launch events
• Opening day promotions
• Partnerships with local businesses

Marketing and Promotion: $2,000 – $10,000

Read our post, How to Promote Your Coffee Shop Business, for more information.

7. Mobile Coffee Operational Costs

It will be necessary to budget for your mobile coffee operational costs. We list them below. Securing enough cash and having a realistic budget ahead of time will help you manage the costs.

• Staffing Costs
• Barista salaries or wages
• Training programs
• Fuel and Transportation
• Fuel costs for the truck
• Insurance for the vehicle and business

Operational Costs: $5,000 – $15,000 (first three months)

Ongoing Mobile Coffee Inventory Costs

While you will have to pay for your initial inventory cost, you’ll have to use inventory daily and replace those used up in sales.

• Regular restocking of coffee beans and supplies
• Miscellaneous Costs
• Utilities (electricity, water for the truck)
• Unexpected expenses

Further Reading: Coffee Truck Ideas

How Much Does a Coffee Truck Cost?

8. Mobile Coffee Financing Options

Starting a coffee truck takes money. As mentioned earlier, the first question is how much money it takes to start a coffee truck. But the investment you make can also give you a healthy return on investment and become a profitable coffee business. The second question is, where will you get the money?

You will have several ways to develop your coffee business funding mix. Still, nearly all of them have a cost unless they are a financial gift or part of a partnership. Even partnerships have costs, as profits will need to be split.

• Personal Savings
• Business Loans
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loans
• Bank loans
• Investors and Partnerships
• Crowdfunding Options

Financing Costs: Varies

Interest rates and fees associated with loans, if applicable.

Hidden Costs of Starting a Coffee Truck (That Most People Overlook)

When budgeting for a coffee truck, it’s easy to focus on big-ticket expenses like the truck, equipment, and permits. However, many hidden costs can catch new coffee truck owners off guard and impact profitability before they even launch. Understanding these costs before you start can help you create a more realistic budget, avoid stress, and set your coffee truck business up for long-term success.

Here are some often-overlooked costs to consider before you start your coffee truck journey:

1. Equipment Repairs & Maintenance (Yes, Even for New Trucks)

Even if you purchase a brand-new truck or trailer, equipment wear and tear is inevitable. Espresso machines, generators, water pumps, and refrigeration units need regular maintenance, and unexpected breakdowns can be expensive.

• Plan Ahead: Factor in 5-10% of your startup budget for maintenance and emergency repairs. Even before you open, getting your equipment professionally installed and tested will help prevent early failures.

2. Fuel Costs & Vehicle Maintenance

Unlike a brick-and-mortar café, your coffee truck needs fuel to operate daily, and gas prices fluctuate. If you’re planning to move locations frequently or operate at events, fuel costs can quickly add up. Plus, trucks and trailers require regular maintenance, like oil changes, tire replacements, and inspections.

• Plan Ahead: Research fuel efficiency for different coffee truck models and budget for at least $200-$600/month in fuel costs. Look into vehicle insurance, registration fees, and roadside assistance plans.

3. Licensing, Permits & Unexpected Fees

You may have already accounted for initial licenses and permits, but many first-time coffee truck owners underestimate the cost of annual renewals, parking permits, fire inspections, and unexpected regulatory changes.

• Plan Ahead: Contact your local health and business departments early to understand all the required permits and fees. Some areas have expensive mobile vendor fees or special parking restrictions, which could affect your budget and business model.
• Budget Tip: Allocate an extra $500-$2,000 in your startup costs for unexpected permit fees.

4. Credit Card Processing Fees (A Cost You Can’t Ignore)

Most customers will pay with a card, and payment processors like Square or Stripe take 2-3% per transaction. If you’re not pricing your drinks correctly, this fee can cut your profits.

• Plan Ahead: Research different POS systems before launching, factor card processing fees into your pricing, and consider offering small incentives for cash payments.

5. Branding & Marketing Costs (More Than Just Social Media)

Many new coffee truck owners assume that word-of-mouth and social media are enough—but effective marketing often requires a real investment. Truck wraps, professional branding, signage, and paid ads can quickly add up.

• Plan Ahead: Allocate $2,000-$5,000 for branding, truck wraps, initial advertising, and promotional giveaways before you launch. Having a strong brand presence from day one will help attract customers and establish credibility.

When planning your coffee truck business, don’t just focus on the big startup costs—the hidden costs can make or break your budget. By accounting for coffee truck maintenance, your fuel costs, licenses and permits, credit card fees, seasonal slowdowns, and marketing expenses before you start, you’ll avoid surprises and set yourself up for a smoother, more profitable launch.

Conclusion

Starting a coffee truck business involves a significant investment, but mobile coffee can become a profitable venture with careful planning and smart budgeting.

From market research and business planning to purchasing or leasing a truck and from acquiring equipment to managing operational costs, each step requires detailed attention and strategic thinking. Ensuring you have the necessary licenses and permits, creating a solid brand, and effectively marketing your business are crucial for success.

By understanding the comprehensive cost breakdown—ranging from $30,000 to $159,000—aspiring coffee truck owners can better prepare for the financial commitment involved. With dedication, passion, and a robust business plan, your coffee truck can meet the growing demand for specialty coffee and carve out a niche in the competitive coffee truck industry.

Remember, thorough research, wise investments and continuous learning are vital to turning your coffee truck dreams into a thriving reality.

Coffee Shop Startups

Mobile Coffee Business Coaching

Starting a coffee truck is an excellent option for many would-be coffee entrepreneurs. Yet, starting a coffee truck requires you to consider several vital factors before spending significant money.

We offer an affordable mobile coffee consulting service to help you launch your coffee truck. To schedule a consultation, email us at contact@coffeeshopstartups.com.

The best way to start your mobile coffee business is to invest in learning all you can about retail coffee and learning from real-world coffee managers, coffee business owners, and business experts.

Our Complete Coffee Shop Startups Kit provides multiple coffee business guides, a business plan template, and 15 hours of audio interviews. Our interviews provide a wide breadth of advice, tips, and recommendations that are helpful for any retail coffee business owner. 

Get The Ultimate Guide!

How to Start Your Mobile Coffee Business

Our guide walks you through every step of launching your own mobile coffee business, providing the expert insights you need to succeed.

Practical Tips and Insider Knowledge: Get hands-on advice on everything from choosing your mobile unit to crafting a unique coffee experience.

Build a Profitable Business: Discover how to find the best locations and market your mobile coffee business to attract a loyal customer base.

Start with Confidence and Save Money: With our comprehensive guide, you'll have all the tools and knowledge to kickstart your journey into mobile coffee entrepreneurship – more affordably and quickly.

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Coffee Shop Startups

Based in Seattle, Washington, USA, Coffee Shop Startups is dedicated to providing you with the most relevant information on how to start a coffee shop business successfully. Over the last 11 years, we've helped thousands of aspiring coffee business owners worldwide. We harness the experience, wisdom, and knowledge of many successful coffee shop owners to help you increase your chances of success and profits. We support business owners who want to start a coffee business by providing them with valuable information on starting their coffee business successfully.