11/26/2025
Ever wonder why so many food trucks are closing permanently?
Here’s an honest look at what the public usually doesn’t see.
1. Event Fees
Many events charge food trucks $50 to $1,000 just to participate. That fee doesn’t include food, labor, gas, supplies, or travel. In slow events, trucks often don’t even make that money back.
2. Event Transparency Issues
Some event coordinators are not upfront about how many trucks will be attending, which affects sales and planning. Trucks often learn the truth only when they arrive.
3. Marketing Expectations
A large number of events rely heavily on food trucks to promote the event for them—meaning the burden of advertising often falls on us, not the organizers.
4. Rising Food Costs
Food prices have risen dramatically. Many ingredients cost almost double what they did in 2024, making menu pricing extremely difficult without scaring customers away.
5. Insurance Requirements
Food truck owners must carry:
– Personal vehicle insurance
– Separate business liability insurance
Both are required, and both are expensive.
6. Permits & Taxes
We pay $120 per year for state permits, plus personal property taxes for commercial plates, which vary by county.
7. Safety Inspections
Trucks with hood vents or fire suppression systems must undergo inspections every 6 months, costing $120–$250 each time.
8. Unlimited Competition
There is currently no limit on how many food trucks a county can approve. Oversaturation means fewer sales and less financial stability for everyone.
9. Commissary Requirements
Most states require food trucks to use a commissary kitchen, which costs $200–$600 per month. Only ONE truck in our area is fully self-contained and does not require one.
10. Additional Operating Costs
✔ ServSafe certifications
✔ Business licenses
✔ Sales tax filing
✔ Generator fuel
✔ Equipment maintenance and repairs
✔ Cleaning supplies
✔ Storage fees
✔ Health department renewals
✔ Propane
✔ Disposable serving products
Running a food truck is far more complex and costly than most people realize. While the food truck community is passionate, hardworking, and resilient, the financial and logistical challenges are significant.
Understanding these behind-the-scenes realities helps explain why many trucks struggle — and why supporting your local food trucks truly makes a difference.
