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Getting Started
Have you always dreamed of owning your own mobile food business? Maybe you've been dreaming of the freedom to set your own hours, work where you want... Food vending businesses are perfect opportunities to earn immediate cash flow and large profit margins. Here's how to get started.
Follow Your Dreams...
Are you truly passionate about the mobile food business? Businesses that succeed are fueled by passionate individuals. You are the key to making your mobile food business successful. The amount of time and energy you invest into the business will reflect in your success.
How's the View?
Before you can sell anything, you'll need a location.
Have you thought about where you will place your mobile food cart?
Is the location on private or public property?
Is this a year-round or seasonal location?
Do you have a vehicle capable of towing the cart there?
If you have scouted a location, meet with the property owners to discuss your plans. You will want to figure in any costs for space rental into your monthly expenses. If you haven't found a location, consider places with high traffic volume: downtown/metro areas, court houses, college campuses, near fast food establishments or gas stations, work sites, beaches, convention centers and arenas.
You can tow your Top Dog Cart to any selling location. You will need a vehicle capable of safely towing 500 lbs or more.
Forms and Legalities
Each state and community has it’s own set of regulations regarding mobile food permits and licensing. Check with your local and state health department to know what is required. This will be important when building your cart. For instance, most Health Departments require a certain number of sinks on the cart. We will build your cart to meet your state's regulations.
The health inspector may want to see a schematic of the mobile food cart you are purchasing. We can provide this to you. They may also require an application or form to be completed about your cart. We will be happy to assist you in filling out this document.
You will need:
- To register you mobile food cart with the Department of Motor Vehicles in the state you will be operating your business.
- A Federal Employee Number (EIN). More information can be found here.
Other items you may need:
Seller’s permit: Check with your state for proper permitting.
Insurance: Regulations vary per state/community.
Seller’s permit: Check with your state for proper permitting.
Insurance: Regulations vary per state/community.
More information about these agencies can be found on our licensing page.
What is a Commissary?
A commissary is a station where you can store supplies and clean mobile food equipment. A commissary has a licensed and inspected kitchen. Examples are: a restaurant, church, school, community center or a banquet facility. There will be several in your area. Each state/county has different regulations as far as a commissary. Check with your health department for more information.
What's on the Menu?
The purpose of a mobile food cart is to quickly serve great food. Top Dog Carts are versatile. You can prepare and serve many types of food with them. But usually it's best to start with one specialty item (such as sausage) to create your niche in the marketplace. Offering several items at one time can hinder quick service (and profits!).
Yes, You're Open!
One of the advantages of the mobile food business is you make your own hours! But it's a good idea to keep your location in mind when you do. If your business is based downtown at the courthouse, Monday-Friday 10am-2pm may be your busiest hours. If you are planning to work festivals and events, then days and times will be determined by each event.
Be... Unforgettable.
Choosing a name for your business can be difficult. It's important that your company name is exclusive to you. Once you've decided on a name, check the internet to make sure it's not already in use. Avoid associating yourself with sports teams or schools unless you have made arrangements with the organization to use their name and likeness. This will help you avoid issues with copyright infringement or trademark violation.
Let Everyone Know!
A mobile food cart gets attention from the public because they are usually located on a busy street or thoroughfare. But what if you're not the only one there? With TDC Manufacturing, LLC you can enhance your brand with custom signage on the cart face. Matching accessories, such as an umbrella, will protect you from the elements and draw attention to your location.
Be... Unforgettable.
Choosing a name for your business can be difficult. It's important that your company name is exclusive to you. Once you've decided on a name, check the internet to make sure it's not already in use. Avoid associating yourself with sports teams or schools unless you have made arrangements with the organization to use their name and likeness. This will help you avoid issues with copyright infringement or trademark violation.
Let Everyone Know!
A mobile food cart gets attention from the public because they are usually located on a busy street or thoroughfare. But what if you're not the only one there? With TDC Manufacturing, LLC you can enhance your brand with custom signage on the cart face. Matching accessories, such as an umbrella, will protect you from the elements and draw attention to your location.
TDC Manufacturing, LLC has also partnered with K2 Evolution, LLC to help our clients with logo creation/branding, collateral materials (such as business cards, letterhead), promotional items (such as hats, aprons, shirts) and marketing for their businesses. By offering both manufacturing and marketing services, we give our clients a seamless transition into their new business.
And don't forget... Your personality is a big key in branding your business. Keep in mind each day as you head out to your location that people remember someone who is outgoing, fun and pleasant to be around.
And don't forget... Your personality is a big key in branding your business. Keep in mind each day as you head out to your location that people remember someone who is outgoing, fun and pleasant to be around.
Ready to Move Ahead? Contact us for a cart consultation!
