The food truck business is trendy in the United States of America and has high revenue returns. But for you to be successful, choosing a strategic location will be more important than the food you’ll be offering.
While some cities allow a permanent parking spot, others do not tolerate parking in one place for more than two hours. So in both scenarios, you’ll have to consider the below factors before settling down at a particular location.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Strategic Location for your Food Truck
1. Required Legal Fees and Permits
Different cities have different rules regarding food trucks’ legal fees and permits. Before settling down after identifying a location, it’s essential to consult the town council to understand the kind of permits you’re required to have before kick-starting.
You’ll need a business and an EIN license as the most crucial documents for your food truck business. Further, you’ll need a fire certificate, truck license, seller’s permit, and food handling permit to operate in certain areas.
2. Security
When choosing a location for your food truck, considering a safe and secure location will help you grow faster. By security, we mean you are free from attacks by thieves, smugglers, and the like. An insecure area will keep off your customers, and you may never realize profits.
3. Foot Traffic
Like any other business, a food truck business requires strategic planning when it comes to location. For you to realize fast growth, picking a location with high foot traffic will increase your returns.
While you may be getting support from friends and repeat customers, you might have stagnated sales if your location does not attract passersby, who contribute to more than 80% of your sales.
4. Space
When searching for your truck location, having space in mind will determine how many customers you’re ready to host at a time. Large spaces assure customers that they can buy and eat around your area comfortably.
Again, it would help to provide shades as some council authorities require, although it also creates an inviting gesture.
5. Target Customers
Before identifying your best location, it’s good to locate the kind of customers you want to serve since they are the lifeline of your business. Since customers’ demand will dictate what food you’ll be selling, it’s good to survey before starting.
Being unique with the same food offered or introducing foods that go well with what your competitors provide will ensure continued customer flow. However, listening to your customers and meeting their demands should be a priority before holding the market.
Conclusion
Finding a good location for your food truck business is as good as the food you’ll be selling. It’s always good to do a market survey before venturing and settling into the food truck business. A thorough survey will help you know council regulations of different areas, security status, available spaces, and customers’ demands.
While there are several food trucks in your area, where you park yours will be the determinant of your financial breakthrough. Ensure the location you choose enables customers to see you. You can do this by taking time before you start selling or send a pilot locator to find a good spot before they are all occupied (that is, if you’re in a town where you frequently change location).