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Full-Size Food Trucks with Kitchen: The Ultimate Mobile Restaurant Solution GuideMechanic.Com In today’s fast-paced food industry, mobility and flexibility are key to success—and nothing delivers that better than full-size food trucks with kitchens.
These mobile culinary powerhouses come fully equipped with commercial-grade appliances and custom-built interiors, making them a true extension of a brick-and-mortar restaurant or even a full-on business of their own.
Whether you’re a chef launching your first venture, a restaurant owner expanding reach, or an entrepreneur entering the booming food truck scene, full-size trucks with fully built kitchens offer everything you need to prepare, cook, and serve meals on the go.
In this article, we’ll cover what makes a full-size food truck ideal, what equipment you can expect inside, tips on choosing the right build, and a detailed price table to help guide your investment.
See Also: Converted School Bus Food Trucks for Sale
Full-Size Food Trucks with Kitchen: The Ultimate Mobile Restaurant Solution
What Is a Full-Size Food Truck?
A full-size food truck typically refers to a step van, box truck, or shuttle bus that has been converted into a fully operational mobile kitchen.
These vehicles range from 18 to 26 feet in length and offer ample space for cooking, prepping, storing, and serving food in high volumes.
Unlike small food trailers or compact trucks, full-size models are designed for serious cooking operations and often meet health and safety standards required for commercial food production.
Why Go Full-Size?
Here are some major advantages of going with a full-size truck:
- More Kitchen Space: You’ll have room for fryers, grills, griddles, prep counters, coolers, and even baking equipment.
- High Production Capacity: Serve more customers per hour—ideal for festivals, catering, or high-traffic locations.
- Menu Versatility: Cook a full range of hot and cold foods with ease.
- Staff Accommodation: Larger interiors can fit 2–4 staff members comfortably.
- Brand Presence: A larger truck gives you more space for exterior branding, graphics, and signage.
Full-Size Food Trucks with Kitchen
What’s Included in a Full Kitchen Setup?
Most full-size food trucks with kitchens come outfitted with the following:
Cooking Equipment
- Flat-top griddles
- Deep fryers
- Charbroilers or grills
- Ovens or convection ovens
- Steam tables
Food Prep
- Stainless steel prep tables
- Under-counter refrigerators
- Sandwich prep stations
- Cold storage
Ventilation & Safety
- Commercial ventilation hood
- Fire suppression system
- Propane tank systems
- Fire extinguishers
Sanitation
- Triple-compartment sink
- Handwashing sink
- Fresh and grey water tanks (at least 30 gallons)
- Hot water heater
Service & Storage
- Service window with shelf
- Overhead shelves
- Dry storage cabinets
Depending on your menu and local codes, you may also install espresso machines, blenders, pizza ovens, or specialty cookers.
Price Table:
Here’s a breakdown of typical prices for fully built food trucks in the U.S.:
| Truck Size & Type | Features Included | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 18 ft Step Van (Used) | Basic kitchen, 2 cook lines, triple sink | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 20 ft Step Van (New Build) | Full custom kitchen, hood, fryers, branding | $75,000 – $95,000 |
| 22 ft Freightliner | Full kitchen, multiple appliances, upgraded equipment | $90,000 – $115,000 |
| 24 ft Box Truck | Large setup, ideal for catering + events | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| Shuttle Bus Conversion | Full kitchen, seating area, hybrid builds | $55,000 – $80,000 |
| Premium Custom Build | Top-tier appliances, design, full wrap | $130,000 – $160,000+ |
Note: Pricing may vary by region, builder, appliance brands, and whether the truck is new or used.
Who Should Buy a Full-Size Food Truck?
- 1. Established Restaurants
Brick-and-mortar restaurants can expand into catering, festivals, and new locations by launching a mobile version of their kitchen.
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2. Event Caterers
A full-size truck with high output capabilities is ideal for weddings, corporate events, and private catering.
- 3. First-Time Entrepreneurs
Those starting a food truck business who want flexibility to run a full menu without limitations should invest in a complete kitchen build.
- 4. Franchise Operators
Expanding a food truck fleet across different markets often starts with a reliable full-size setup.
New vs. Used Full-Size Food Trucks
| Feature | New Truck Build | Used Food Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Customization | Complete layout control | Limited changes without upgrades |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower entry price |
| Startup Time | 2–4 months build time | Ready to use faster |
| Reliability | Brand new chassis and kitchen | Depends on truck age and condition |
| Compliance | Up-to-date with current codes | May require upgrades to meet local laws |
Used trucks are great if you’re on a tight budget and can find one in good condition, but new builds offer peace of mind, warranties, and the exact layout you want.
Tips for Buying a Full-Size Food Truck with Kitchen
Start with Your Menu
Your menu determines your equipment. If you’re frying, grilling, and prepping multiple ingredients, make sure the layout can handle your workflow.
Understand Local Regulations
Each city and county has specific codes for ventilation, water tanks, fire suppression, and food storage. Choose a builder who complies with your local health department.
Plan for Generator Power
Larger trucks with more appliances need bigger generators—usually 7,000 watts or more. Consider propane and shore power options too.
Budget for Permits and Licensing
In addition to the truck, plan for $1,000–$5,000 in initial licensing, parking permits, inspections, and insurance costs.
Look for Warranty and Support
Reputable builders will offer warranties on both the kitchen build and the vehicle itself.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about operating a high-volume food truck business, there’s no better investment than a full-size food truck with a built-in commercial kitchen.
While the upfront cost may be higher than smaller options, the long-term flexibility, earning potential, and brand presence are unmatched.
From $50,000 for used models to over $150,000 for new premium builds, there’s a wide range of trucks to fit different culinary visions and budgets.
With proper planning, the right equipment, and an efficient kitchen design, your full-size truck can function as a complete mobile restaurant—ready to roll wherever the opportunity calls.
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