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Step Van Food Trucks for Sale: Your Complete Buying Guide GuideMechanic.Com Step vans are the backbone of the food truck industry—versatile, spacious, and rugged. These military-style vans often serve as blank canvases for vibrant mobile kitchens.
If you’re researching step van food trucks for sale, this guide will walk you through the types, current pricing, key considerations, and expert tips to make a smart investment.
See Also: Food Carts and Mini Trucks for Sale
Step Van Food Trucks for Sale: Your Complete Buying Guide
Why Choose a Step Van?
- Ideal kitchen workspace: Standing headroom, walk-in access, and ample space for appliances and storage.
- Reliable mobility: Built on commercial chassis designed to handle heavy loads and frequent stops.
- Easier maintenance: Parts and service are widely available thanks to their popularity in delivery and retrofitting markets.
- Proven resale value: Well-built step vans maintain value better than many trailers or converted pickup combos.
Types of Step Vans Available
- Blank Shells
Empty interiors ideal for custom builds. You choose layout, appliances, and finishes.
- Partially Outfitted Vans
Come with a few kitchen fixtures like sinks or counters—perfect for budget builds.
- Fully Equipped Turnkey Vans
Include full kitchens, ventilation, electrical, and plumbing—ready for local health inspection.
Price Table: Step Van Food Trucks
Here’s a snapshot of typical market pricing across various conditions and equipment levels:
| Vehicle | Year | Type | Key Features | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 Workhorse Step Van | 2002 | Blank Shell | Empty interior, basic chassis | $8,500 |
| 2004 Chevy P30 | 2004 | Partial Build | Sink, counters, electrical outlets | $22,000 |
| 2006 GMC Step Van | 2006 | Turnkey Basic | Grill, fridge, hand sink | $38,000 |
| 2008 Ford E-350 | 2008 | Turnkey Mid-Level | Fryer, prep area, HVAC, fire hood | $52,500 |
| 2010 Freightliner MT45 | 2010 | Turnkey Premium | Generator, boilers, commercial fridge | $74,000 |
| 2012 Chevy P42 | 2012 | Fully Equipped | Full kitchen, ice, suppression | $89,999 |
| 2015 Workhorse Step Van | 2015 | Like-New Build-Out | New infrastructure, low mileage | $115,000 |
| 2020 Ford E-450 | 2020 | Commercial Turnkey | Modern appliances, turnkey ready | $145,000 |
Step Van Food Trucks for Sale: Your Complete Buying Guide
What the Price Ranges Mean
- Under $25K: Mostly empty shells or vans with minimal outfitting. Great for DIY builders or limited-by-budgets.
- $25K–$60K: These vans offer basic to mid-level kitchen setups—ideal for starting businesses with functional layouts.
- $60K–$100K+: Premium turnkey units built with commercial-grade equipment, appliances, and code compliance.
- $100K–$150K: Custom-built modern vans offering full branding, commercial efficiency, and reliable long-term operation.
Key Inspection Checklist
Before finalizing a purchase, inspect carefully:
- Engine & Transmission: Run a full test, check for leaks or irregular noises.
- Brake and Wheel Condition: Ensure tires and brake systems are up to date.
- Electrical & Generator: Test power outlets, lighting, and generator function.
- Plumbing: Confirm fresh and grey water tank integrity; test sink drains.
- Kitchen Equipment: Fire suppression, hood ventilation, cooking appliances—all must be operational.
- Structural Integrity: Inspect for rust, roof leaks, and frame damage.
- Legal Compliance: Have inspection reports or ensure the van meets local health and safety codes.
- Title and VIN: Must match, with no salvage branding unless you’re prepared to rebuild.
DIY Build vs Turnkey
| Feature | DIY Blank Shell | Turnkey Step Van |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $8,000–$20,000 | $38,000–$145,000+ |
| Build Time | 3–9 months | Days to weeks (if ready-to-go) |
| Customization Control | 100% | Limited to pre-existing layout |
| Risk Level | Higher (misbuilds possible) | Lower (compliance already handled) |
Builders with experience may prefer customization, but turnkey vans reduce time investment and stress.
Budgeting Beyond Purchase
Prepare for these additional expenses:
- Health and Fire Permits: $1,000 – $3,000
- Commissary Fees/Rent: $500–$1,200/month
- Commercial Insurance: $1,500–$3,500/year
- Vehicle & Appliance Maintenance: $3,000+/year
- Branding and Wrap: $2,500–$7,000
- Food Inventory & Staffing: $1,000+/month
Step Van Food Trucks for Sale
Financing and Payment Options
Most sellers accept:
- Cash: Often comes with negotiation leverage.
- Bank/Dealer Financing: Some dealers offer package financing.
- Equipment Financing: Spread out payments using commercial equipment loans.
- SBA Loans: Suitable for larger purchases, depending on business qualifications.
Tips from Experienced Operators
- Double-check permits—a van cleared in one city may need approval elsewhere.
- Bring kitchen and vehicle inspectors—leverage findings to negotiate pricing.
- Test appliances on-site—missing grills or refrigeration capacity can cost thousands later.
- Reserve a spot in advance—holidays and events boost revenue but require planning.
Final Takeaway
Step van food trucks offer a healthy mix of functionality, durability, and resale value. Prices range from $8,500 for a blank shell to $145,000 for a state-of-the-art, turnkey commercial kitchen.
Match your investment to your business goals—DIY for creative flexibility, turnkey for fast entry, or somewhere in between.
With the right due diligence, equipment selection, and operating plan, a step van can be your ticket to serving delicious food from coast to coast.
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