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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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Commercial vehicle loans
Business term loans
SBA loans
Leasing
Grants and competitions
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.
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.