Budget Food Truck Equipment
Quality equipment options that won't break the bank. Start your food truck business affordably without compromising on safety.
Budget-Friendly Cooking Equipment
Commercial Griddle - Budget Pick
Blackstone 28" Griddle Station
$699
Value Benefits
- • Solid construction at entry-level price
- • 28" cooking surface handles most needs
- • Easy assembly and installation
- • Good heat distribution
- • 1-year manufacturer warranty
Considerations
- • Smaller capacity than premium models
- • Basic temperature controls
- • May require more frequent maintenance
- • Limited accessories included
Best For: Startups with simple menus (burgers, sandwiches, breakfast items)
Refrigerator - Budget Option
Turbo Air M3R47-1-N Single Door
$1,299
Cost Savings
- • 40% less than premium two-door units
- • Energy efficient operation
- • Reliable temperature control
- • Compact footprint saves space
- • Self-closing door
Trade-offs
- • Limited storage capacity
- • Single door access
- • May need additional freezer unit
- • Basic interior lighting
Upgrade Path: Start with one unit, add second as business grows
Money-Saving Strategies
Used Equipment
- • Save 40-60% vs new prices
- • Inspect thoroughly before purchase
- • Verify maintenance history
- • Check remaining warranty
- • Test all functions
Best Sources: Restaurant auctions, equipment dealers
Lease vs Buy
- • Lower upfront costs
- • Preserve working capital
- • Upgrade options available
- • Tax advantages
- • Maintenance often included
Typical Terms: 24-60 months, $1 buyout
Complete Budget Setup
Starter Equipment Package - $15,000 Total
| Equipment | Model/Option | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Griddle | Blackstone 28" | $699 | New, basic model |
| Refrigerator | Turbo Air Single Door | $1,299 | New, compact size |
| 3-Comp Sink | Used commercial unit | $800 | Good condition used |
| Generator | Honda EU7000iS | $4,200 | Reliable, portable |
| Ventilation | Basic hood system | $3,500 | Code compliant |
| Hand Sink | Wall mount unit | $350 | Basic compliance |
| Water System | Basic tank & pump | $1,200 | 40-gal capacity |
| Fire Suppression | ANSUL system | $2,200 | Required by code |
| Misc & Installation | Various | $752 | Small items |
Total Budget Package: $15,000
This represents the absolute minimum viable setup. Plan to upgrade components as revenue allows.
Financing Options
Equipment Financing
- • Interest rates: 8-18% depending on credit
- • Terms: 2-7 years typical
- • Down payment: 10-25% required
- • Equipment serves as collateral
- • Fast approval process
SBA Loans
- • Lower interest rates (6-12%)
- • Longer terms available
- • Can finance other startup costs
- • Requires detailed business plan
- • Longer approval process
Alternative Funding
- • Equipment leasing companies
- • Manufacturer financing programs
- • Business credit cards (short-term)
- • Crowdfunding platforms
- • Personal savings and family loans
Budget Equipment Checklist
Pre-Purchase Steps
Set realistic total budget
Research used equipment sources
Compare financing options
Plan for installation costs
Smart Purchasing
Prioritize safety-critical items
Inspect used equipment thoroughly
Negotiate warranty coverage
Plan future upgrade path