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Food Trucks with Generator for Sale: Power Up Your Mobile Kitchen GuideMechanic.Com One of the most critical components of any successful food truck operation is power.
Whether you’re running a refrigerator, lighting, a ventilation system, or heavy-duty kitchen equipment like fryers and grills, you need a reliable electricity source. That’s why food trucks with generator for sale are in high demand.
If you’re planning to launch or upgrade a food truck, purchasing one with a built-in generator can save you time, reduce setup headaches, and keep your business running smoothly during long vending hours.
See Also: Food Trucks with Equipment for Sale
Food Trucks with Generator for Sale
Why a Generator is Essential for Food Trucks
Food trucks rely heavily on power. If you’re vending in an area without a dedicated electric hookup—or participating in festivals, parks, or late-night events—you’ll need your own generator to keep everything operational.
Key Appliances That Require Power:
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Blenders, mixers, or coffee machines
- Lights and POS systems
- Water pumps and hand sinks
- Exhaust fans and fire suppression systems
- A/C or heating units (optional but helpful)
Without a reliable generator, your business can come to a halt. That’s why purchasing a food truck with a pre-installed generator is often the smartest option.
Types of Generators in Food Trucks
When shopping for a food truck with a generator, it’s helpful to understand the types available and what they’re used for.
Gasoline Generators
- Common and relatively affordable.
- Require frequent refueling and maintenance.
- Suitable for smaller setups or short daily service hours.
Propane Generators
- Cleaner burning than gasoline.
- Often quieter and more eco-friendly.
- Propane tanks can be refilled or swapped out quickly.
Diesel Generators
- Long-lasting and more fuel-efficient over time.
- Ideal for larger trucks with high power needs.
- Often integrated into commercial builds.
Inverter Generators
- Great for sensitive electronics (POS, lights).
- Quieter and more compact.
- Best for light to medium-duty food trucks.
What to Look for When Buying a Food Truck with Generator
To avoid problems down the line, make sure to inspect or ask about:
- Generator size (wattage) – Does it support all your appliances?
- Noise level – Especially important in residential or event zones.
- Fuel efficiency – How long does it run per gallon?
- Mounting location – Is it secure and properly ventilated?
- Electrical panel and breakers – Well-organized and labeled systems reduce the risk of overload.
- Backup options – Can the system support shore power if needed?
A generator should be sized at least 20% above your total daily load to prevent power failures during peak operations.
Food Trucks with Generator for Sale
Ideal Food Businesses for Generator-Powered Trucks
If your concept involves heavy cooking equipment or frequent off-grid vending, then a generator-equipped truck is the way to go.
Best fit concepts include:
- Burger and grill trucks
- Coffee trucks or smoothie bars
- Ice cream trucks with refrigeration
- Breakfast trucks with espresso machines
- Gourmet food trucks for events and weddings
Price Table: Food Trucks with Generator for Sale
| Truck Type & Size | Generator Specs | Condition | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14-ft Compact Food Truck | 4,000W Gasoline Generator | Used | $28,000 – $42,000 |
| 16-ft Step Van | 6,500W Propane Generator | Refurbished | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| 18-ft Mid-Sized Truck | 7,500W Diesel Generator | Like New | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| 20-ft Commercial Truck | 10,000W Diesel + Shore Power Plug-In | New | $85,000 – $110,000 |
| 22-ft Custom Build | 12,000W Inverter Generator + Backup | New | $110,000 – $135,000 |
Prices vary based on features, build quality, mileage, and installed kitchen equipment.
Food Trucks with Generator for Sale
Used vs. New: Which Truck Should You Buy?
| Feature | Used Truck | New Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More affordable upfront | Higher initial investment |
| Generator Quality | May need replacement or servicing | New and often under warranty |
| Customization | Limited without expensive upgrades | Fully customizable to your business |
| Inspection Needed | Always inspect electrical and fuel lines | Build based on current food codes |
If you go with a used model, ensure that the generator is fully operational and comes with service records.
Generator Maintenance Tips for Food Truck Owners
To keep your power source running smoothly:
- Change oil regularly – Most small generators need oil changes every 100 hours.
- Clean air filters – A dirty filter reduces efficiency and increases fuel use.
- Inspect fuel lines – Check for leaks or wear monthly.
- Run it weekly – Even if not vending, run the generator at least once a week to prevent battery drainage or fuel line issues.
- Keep it ventilated – Ensure airflow around the generator is unobstructed, especially if it’s mounted underneath the truck.
Regular generator maintenance will reduce downtime and extend the life of your food truck.
Licensing and Inspection Considerations
Most counties and cities require that food truck electrical systems (including generators) meet specific safety standards.
- Fire safety: Generators must be mounted safely and not pose a fire hazard.
- Noise restrictions: Some cities have decibel limits for public operations.
- Carbon monoxide venting: Proper exhaust routing is essential.
- Electrical inspection: May be required before receiving your operating permit.
- Always check local health department and business regulations before committing to a purchase.
Final Thoughts
A food truck with a generator is more than a convenience—it’s a necessity for most serious mobile food businesses. Whether you’re preparing gourmet meals, grilling burgers, brewing coffee, or frying donuts, you need dependable power every single day.
Buying a food truck with a built-in generator takes the guesswork out of power planning. It ensures you’re ready for long shifts, unpredictable events, and locations without external hookups.
While these trucks may cost more upfront, they offer flexibility, reliability, and peace of mind—critical ingredients for any food truck’s success.
If you’re comparing options or getting started, prioritize generator capacity alongside your kitchen layout, cooking appliances, and ventilation systems. A reliable power supply could be the one thing that keeps your business moving when others are stuck in the dark.
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