Thinking of starting a food truck business? You can’t go wrong! Depending on the location and demand, it can be a lucrative business without the high cost. Among others, one of the most important is to find the right equipment.
If you are curious about where to buy used food truck equipment, read on. We’ll list some of the options to consider. More so, we’ll share the basic equipment you will need, as well as some tips on how you can find the best deals.
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Where To Buy Used Food Truck Equipment
Buying used equipment for your food truck is challenging and overwhelming. The options are plenty, but you should never be tempted to choose based on price. Below are some places that you should check out.
1. Facebook Marketplace
Being one of the most popular social networking platforms, Facebook is a great place to check out if you are looking for bargains on used kitchen equipment. It has a feature called Marketplace, which is a platform for buying, selling, and trading different items.
At Facebook Marketplace, you can search for items, browse items depending on category or location, and message sellers. Facebook is in no way responsible for facilitating the sale nor do they check the credentials of the sellers.
You will see most individual sellers at Facebook Marketplace as opposed to institutional sellers in other platforms. These are often people who are selling only one or a couple of items they want to get rid of from their home or business.
2. Amazon
When it comes to online shopping platforms, Amazon is unbeatable. From fashion finds to home decor, it has a great selection of products for different customers. Unsurprisingly, you will also find used equipment for your food truck.
Check out Amazon Warehouse for the best deals on used equipment. It is convenient because of the tags that show the condition of the products, such as Used – Like New, Used – Very Good, and Used – Acceptable. Such will provide insights about the condition of the product.
One of the best things about Amazon Warehouse is that they are offering s 30-day return policy. This is one thing that can provide you with peace of mind, especially given that most products are no longer covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
3. Craigslist
Like Amazon, Craigslist has also built a reputation for selling second-hand stuff, including food truck equipment. It is convenient because you can shop anytime and anywhere while also making it effortless to compare the alternatives.
Craigslist is more than just a place to buy and sell used items. It is also a job portal. You will find people who are advertising their services, as well as individuals looking for a specific service. You will also find discussion forums.
4. Warehouses
Depending on where you live, chances are, there are many warehouses that are selling used kitchen equipment. Go online to search for one nearby. Many of these warehouses specialize in big kitchen equipment that will help keep your food truck up and running.
What Equipment Do You Need?
Aside from knowing where to buy, you should also learn what equipment you need. Stick to the basics if you are new, and slowly build your kitchen as your business grows. The specific equipment needed will vary on the food that you will serve.
In most cases, below are the equipment your food truck needs:
Stove
One of the most important things that you will need is a stove wherein you will be cooking the food. It is available in different types, including gas and electric. For food trucks, gas stoves are more common.
Griddle
Depending on what you are offering, a griddle offers a convenient way to cook food. The flat surface is perfect for items like burgers and steaks. The best thing is that you can cook more at a given time because it is large,
Refrigerator
From your meat to drinks, a refrigerator is another handy equipment that you should have in a food tuck. It helps in making sure that your ingredients are properly handled and that they remain fresh.
Microwave
When you just need to reheat food, you do not need the stove for it. For better efficiency, it is best to use a microwave instead. From sandwiches to coffee, you can reheat everything in an instant, especially during busy store times.
Ventilation
You will need ventilation inside the food truck, which will keep the place comfortable and hygienic. It will provide the necessary air circulation in your work area.
Sprinklers
While the policies may differ from one state to another, you might be required to install sprinklers. This will provide immediate response in case there is fire.
Washing Station
The setup often includes a complete set with a sink, faucet, and dish rack. Some may opt to use a dishwasher instead, but it isn’t economical and efficient, especially during peak times.
Tips and Tricks for Finding the Best Used Food Truck Equipment
As you look for used kitchen equipment for your food truck, below are some tips that will help you find the best.
Read Reviews
One of the most important is to read reviews. We love buying from websites like Amazon because customers can leave reviews. This will be an opportunity to learn from the real-life experiences of other people.
Consider the Reputation of the Seller
Even if you are buying from websites like Amazon and Craigslist, it does not mean that the product is high-quality. They do not have the means to check every product that goes into the system. So, you should consider the reputation of the seller.
In some platforms, the seller has a profile where customers can leave reviews. This is especially true in Facebook Marketplace. Look for someone who has credibility, preferably a seller who has already completed numerous transactions in the past.
Check Warranty and Returns
When you are buying used food truck equipment, chances are, they no longer come with the original manufacturer warranty. This is common when buying second-hand items. Consider yourself lucky if it is still under warranty.
More so, you should look for the policies for return and exchange. If the product does not meet your expectations, you must be able to return it. In turn, they should issue a refund or replacement. This will make sure that your money won’t go to waste.
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