Funding Options for Purchasing Food Trucks and Trailers

Starting a food truck business is one of the most exciting (and affordable) ways to enter the culinary world—but buying a truck or trailer isn't cheap. The average cost to launch can range from $50,000 to $150,000, depending on the size, equipment, and customization. Fortunately, there are several smart funding options for purchasing food trucks and trailers—so you can hit the road without draining your savings.

✅ Featured Snippet Answer:

How can I fund a food truck or trailer purchase?
Common funding options include equipment financing, business loans, leasing programs, SBA loans, and grants for mobile food businesses.

1. Equipment Financing for Food Trucks and Trailers

Equipment financing is a popular option that allows you to:

• Finance custom-built food trucks, trailers, and cooking equipment

• Make monthly payments over 2–7 years

• Avoid paying 100% upfront

• Own the truck at the end of the term (in most cases)

It’s ideal for entrepreneurs who want ownership without a massive upfront cost.

Related: Restaurant Equipment Financing: Kitchens, Ovens, and More

2. Commercial Vehicle Loans

If your food truck is road-ready with its own engine (not a trailer), it qualifies for a commercial auto loan:

• Loan terms up to 72 months

• Competitive interest rates

• Often available through banks, credit unions, or specialty lenders

✅ Tip: Bundle your truck and cooking gear into one loan with the right lender.

3. Business Term Loans

Need more flexibility beyond just the truck or trailer? Consider a business term loan:

• Funds can be used for licenses, permits, branding, or inventory

• Loans typically range from $25,000 to $500,000

• Fixed monthly payments over a 2–5 year term

Be prepared to show your business plan, revenue projections, and credit score.

4. SBA Microloans and 7(a) Loans

The Small Business Administration offers favorable loans for qualified food truck owners:

• SBA Microloan: Up to $50,000 — great for trailers or used trucks

• SBA 7(a) Loan: Up to $5M — for expansion or full truck builds

• Longer repayment terms and low rates

• Great for startups with strong business plans

Related: How to Choose the Right Equipment Leasing Company

5. Leasing a Food Truck or Trailer

If you want lower monthly costs and the flexibility to upgrade or return the truck, leasing may be your best bet:

• Operating leases or FMV leases available

• Maintenance can be included

• End-of-term buyout options available

Perfect for testing the market or running pop-ups before committing to ownership.

6. Crowdfunding or Community Financing

Many successful food trucks start with help from their local community:

• Launch on Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GoFundMe

• Offer meal vouchers or branded merchandise in return

• Helps build early buzz and a loyal following

Pair this with other funding sources to reduce your loan burden.

7. Grants and Competitions

Search for:

• Local small business development center (SBDC) grants

• Minority or women-owned business grants

• Food truck competitions with funding prizes

While competitive, these can be non-dilutive (no repayment) funding sources.

Summary: 7 Ways to Fund Your Food Truck or Trailer

(Google Snippet Ready ✅)

1. Equipment financing

2. Commercial vehicle loans

3. Business term loans

4. SBA loans

5. Leasing

6. Crowdfunding

7. Grants and competitions

Final Thoughts: Hit the Road Without the Financial Roadblocks

Whether you're buying a fully customized truck or starting with a trailer, you don't need to pay upfront or drain your savings. With the right funding option, your mobile food business can get rolling faster and more affordably than you think.

Take Action: Get Pre-Approved for Food Truck Financing

Ready to fund your mobile kitchen dream?
Compare food truck financing options today and get pre-approved in minutes—so you can start cooking and cashing in.