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Food Truck Trailer for Sale Los Angeles: Start Your Culinary Journey in LA GuideMechanic.Com Looking for a food truck trailer for sale in Los Angeles? You’re in the right place.
LA is one of the most vibrant food cities in the United States, with a rich street food culture, world-class diversity, and year-round perfect weather.
If you’re planning to launch your own mobile kitchen or upgrade your existing trailer, Los Angeles offers excellent opportunities—whether you’re serving tacos, vegan bowls, Korean BBQ, or gourmet donuts.
In this blog post, we’ll break down where to find food truck trailers in LA, what to expect on pricing, important things to check before buying, and how to stay compliant with local health and fire codes.
Food Truck Trailer for Sale Los Angeles
See Also: Food Truck Trailer for Sale UK
Why Choose Los Angeles for a Food Trailer Business?
Los Angeles has been at the heart of the U.S. street food revolution. From the legendary Kogi BBQ truck to hundreds of independently owned food trailers across neighborhoods like Downtown LA, Venice, and East Hollywood, the city is the perfect place to test, grow, and scale your concept.
Here’s why LA is ideal:
- Massive Population: Over 10 million residents in LA County
- Cultural Diversity: Customers crave food from all backgrounds—Mexican, Korean, Ethiopian, Filipino, and more
- Event-Heavy City: Farmers markets, outdoor concerts, movie nights, and weekly pop-ups everywhere
- Year-Round Business: No cold-weather shutdowns—serve 12 months a year
- Strong Food Scene: Customers are eager for new trends and creative cuisine
Types of Food Truck Trailers in Los Angeles
When searching for a trailer in LA, you’ll find many styles, including:
- Used Concession Trailers
- New Custom-Built Trailers
- Coffee & Beverage Trailers
- Mini Food Trailers
- Dessert or Ice Cream Trailers
- BBQ or Smoker Trailers
- Compact 8–12 ft Starter Trailers
- Fully Equipped 20+ ft Kitchens
Some come fully licensed and ready to vend; others may need upgrades or permit work.
Where to Find Food Truck Trailers for Sale in LA
Here are top places to shop for food trailers in Los Angeles:
- 1. Facebook Marketplace
Search “food truck trailer for sale Los Angeles” to browse local listings, often with real photos and walk-through videos.
- 2. Craigslist Los Angeles
A reliable source for used food trailers, particularly under the “business/commercial” category.
- 3. Trailer Builders in California
There are several reputable trailer manufacturers in Southern California that specialize in custom food trailers.
- 4. Used Restaurant Equipment Dealers
Some Los Angeles equipment sellers also offer trailers on consignment or as part of full kitchen liquidation.
- 5. Food Truck Events
Visit food truck rallies, farmer’s markets, and vendor festivals—sometimes sellers list their trailers or are open to selling older units.
Food Truck Trailer for Sale Los Angeles
Food Trailer Prices in Los Angeles
| Trailer Type | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| Used Compact Food Trailer (8–12 ft) | $7,000 – $15,000 |
| Mid-Size Used Kitchen Trailer (14–18 ft) | $18,000 – $30,000 |
| New Fully Equipped Food Trailer (18–24 ft) | $35,000 – $65,000 |
| Custom Gourmet Kitchen Trailer | $70,000 – $100,000+ |
Prices vary based on trailer size, equipment, condition, brand, and licensing status.
What to Check Before Buying a Trailer
Not all trailers are created equal—here’s what to inspect or ask about before purchase:
Kitchen Equipment
- Griddle, fryer, oven, or flat-top grill
- Under-counter or reach-in refrigeration
- Steam tables or cold prep stations
- 3-compartment sink + handwashing sink
- Hot water heater and plumbing
Electrical and Gas Systems
- Proper breakers and electrical panel (110v or 220v)
- Generator compatibility or shore power hookup
- Propane gas lines with shut-off valves
- Lighting, fans, and exterior lights working
Ventilation and Safety
- Exhaust hood with fire suppression system (ANSUL or equivalent)
- Class K fire extinguisher
- Smoke detectors and CO alarms
Physical Condition
- Tires, brakes, trailer hitch
- Clean title and current registration
- Working service window and lockable doors
- Water tanks (fresh and waste) in working order
LA Health Code and Permit Requirements
Getting permitted to vend in Los Angeles can be complex but is absolutely doable with the right setup.
1. LA County Public Health Department
- You’ll need a Mobile Food Facility (MFF) Permit
- Submit plans for trailer design and equipment layout
- Commissary (commercial kitchen) agreement is mandatory
2. LA Fire Department
- Trailers must pass a fire safety inspection
- Fire suppression system must be up to California code
3. City of Los Angeles Business License
- Register your business with the city and obtain a license
- Some cities within LA County may have separate requirements
4. Commissary Requirement
All trailers must operate from an approved commissary (licensed kitchen) for water, waste disposal, and storage
Tip: Always ask if the trailer has passed LA health inspections before—it could save you thousands in upgrades.
Food Truck Trailer for Sale Los Angeles
Smart Questions to Ask Sellers
- Is the trailer currently licensed in Los Angeles County?
- Does it have a working fire suppression system?
- What’s the condition and brand of the cooking equipment?
- Are any repairs or upgrades needed?
- What kind of tow vehicle is required?
- Can I test the power, propane, and water systems?
Popular Food Trailer Concepts That Work in LA
- These food trailer themes are especially strong in the LA market:
- Taco & Burrito Trailers: A staple—don’t skimp on authenticity
- Korean or Asian Fusion Trailers: Huge appeal with LA’s diverse population
- Vegan/Plant-Based Trailers: Thrive in areas like Silver Lake and Venice
- BBQ or Birria Trailers: Always popular at breweries and street events
- Coffee & Matcha Trailers: Great for morning and mid-day vending
- Ice Cream, Boba, and Dessert Trailers: Best near schools, parks, and summer events
Trailer vs. Truck: What’s Best for LA?
| Feature | Food Truck | Food Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $60K – $130K+ | $10K – $65K+ |
| Maintenance | Higher (engine + kitchen) | Lower (kitchen only) |
| Flexibility | Fast mobility | Requires tow vehicle |
| Setup Time | Faster setup | May require 10–15 min setup |
| Customizability | Limited | Highly customizable |
Many first-time vendors in LA choose trailers to keep costs low and scale later.
Final Tips Before Launching in LA
- Buy Local: A trailer already licensed in LA County can fast-track your startup timeline.
- Use a Consultant: LA has strict codes—consider hiring a permit specialist to review your plans.
- Focus on Efficiency: LA traffic can delay setup—design a trailer that’s quick to start and easy to clean.
- Promote Daily: LA customers love checking Instagram to find your location and menu.
- Start Simple: You don’t need a giant menu to succeed—focus on 3–5 best-selling items.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about launching your dream business, finding a food truck trailer for sale in Los Angeles is step one. Whether you’re starting with a compact coffee cart or a 20-foot fusion kitchen, LA offers plenty of options for every budget and culinary vision.
Just remember to verify all health, fire, and city codes, inspect the trailer in person, and design your brand to stand out in one of the most competitive—and rewarding—food cities in America.
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