How to Start Your Own Ice Cream Truck Business
Amanda Byk / Food Trucks & Pop-Up Restaurants, Foodservice Tips / July 28
In order to start your own ice cream truck business, you’ll need more than just a truck and some ice cream. Plan your business down to the last detail and get your legal items in order with our helpful guide.
Plan Your Business
The first step in starting your own ice cream truck business is planning your business. This means deciding on your name, your menu, your route and calculating any costs. Here are a few breakdowns of each step:
- Decide on a brand name and logo – Choose a name that suits you and your ice cream truck. What will your logo look like? Design something to set you apart from the competition.
- Choose your ice cream selections – What will your menu look like? Choose a variety of ice cream flavors, ice pops and more. You can even create your own flavors and add various toppings.
- Research start-up costs – Depending on the area you’re from, the prices may differ. Take a look at the cost of running a food truck business and all that comes with it before you get started.
- Calculate costs – What will it cost to keep your inventory stocked? Calculate the items you’ll need and roughly what it’ll cost to ensure you have enough.
- Plan your route – Look around the area and do some research to find the best areas to find customers as well as what’s affordable for you if you need to pay to park somewhere for a certain amount of time.
Purchase an Ice Cream Truck & Equipment
Second, you’ll need a work space and the proper equipment. When buying a food truck, you’ll need one that can accommodate your inventory and keep things cool. In addition, make sure you have the following equipment to get you started:
- Ice cream freezers and machines
- POS system
- Ice cream scoops
- Cups
- Cones
- Spoons
- Napkins
- Sanitation equipment
Research the Legalities
Like with all businesses, you’ll need to register your business and become a legal entity. This means getting an Employer Identification Number, registering for taxes, finding the correct food truck permits and getting insurance. Take a closer look at some other aspects you’ll need to think about with your ice cream truck business:
- Health inspection regulations
- Opening a business bank account with a credit card
- Local permits
- Business insurance
- Food service licensing
- Health permits
Marketing, Advertising & Online Presence
An important aspect of any business is advertising. Now that you have a brand built, you’ll want to show it off and let other people know what you’re all about. You can do this in a variety of ways including with a website or flyers but one of the best ways to get the word out about your ice cream truck business is with social media accounts.
Create an account on platforms such as Facebook or Twitter and post about your location, new specials and more that’ll have the customers flocking to you. Include pictures of your menu items and share about your business to get the locals interested.