Start a Food Truck Business with Golden State Trailers
To start a food truck business in California, our commercial offer will help. Customized food truck business for sale from Golden State Trailers means superior quality and high level of service at an affordable price. Mobile construction allows you to trade anywhere in the city or out of town.
During 7 years of work, we have created more than 350 projects that help people to run a successful business for sale. We help our customers understand how much does a food truck cost, and offer:
- individual approach;
- selection of the best equipment according to the customer’s request;
- personalized design;
- use of the latest technology;
- quality assembly and thorough inspection afterwards;
- small manufacturing timeframes;
- product demonstration;
- different financing options.
Food Truck vs Food Trailer: What’s Better for Your Food Business in 2025?
If you’re planning to start a mobile kitchen, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to invest in a food truck or a food trailer. Both options have their advantages — but the right choice depends on your budget, location, menu, and long-term goals. In this guide, we’ll compare every key aspect: cost, mobility, maintenance, customization, and licensing.
Startup Costs: Which One Is Cheaper?
Food trailers typically cost between $50,000 and $100,000, while food trucks can range from $100,000 to $200,000. This makes trailers a great choice for entrepreneurs looking to start with lower upfront investment or to apply for food trailer financing.
Plus, trailers depreciate slower — making them a better long-term asset.
Mobility and Parking: Are Food Trucks More Convenient?
Food trucks are self-contained and easier to park in urban zones. If you plan to serve at different spots daily, they offer convenience. But food trailers allow you to detach the towing vehicle — which is extremely useful for events and supply runs.
Note: Food trailers require more parking space but offer more kitchen area.
Customization and Space: Trailers Give You More
Food trailers allow larger layouts and better flow between stations. If you’re running a pizza business, coffee trailer, or need space for fryers, hoods, and sinks — trailers offer unmatched freedom.
You can design your setup using our Product Builder and preview it in 3D.
Maintenance and Longevity
Food trucks have engines and transmissions — which means higher mechanical maintenance and greater risk of downtime. A trailer doesn’t break down on the road and can last longer with basic upkeep.
- Food truck maintenance: engine, brakes, tires, oil, transmission
- Food trailer maintenance: tires, brakes, equipment servicing
Licensing, Insurance, and Permits
Food trailers usually have lower insurance premiums and fewer licensing barriers. Both require health permits, fire safety approvals, and local inspections — and Golden State Trailers helps with all of it during production.
What Types of Food Trailers Can You Build?
At Golden State Trailers, we build all types of trailers including:
Every trailer is built in California and delivered nationwide.
Should You Buy a Food Truck or a Food Trailer?
If you’re asking “how to start a food truck business” or “how much does a food truck cost”, here’s our advice:
- Choose a food truck if you want full mobility and operate in dense city areas
- Choose a food trailer if you want lower cost, more space, and flexibility at events
See Real Examples of Food Trailers
Browse our completed projects and see what other food entrepreneurs have built. You’ll find 16ft to 30ft custom builds, including coffee vans, taco kitchens, and gyro trailers.
Get a Quote and Build Your Dream Trailer
Want to know how much your food trailer will cost? Use our online builder or request a quote. Our team will help you choose the best layout, equipment, and wrap design — and we’ll deliver your trailer anywhere in the United States.
