How Much Will You Spend to Start a Food Truck in Utah
Starting a food truck in Utah involves budgeting for costs like purchasing a truck, outfitting it with kitchen equipment, and obtaining permits. Cities like Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden are popular locations for food trucks, especially at community events and near universities. Choosing between a new truck for reliability or a used one to save on upfront costs can significantly impact your budget. Commissary kitchens may also vary in availability, so it’s important to plan ahead for their fees. This guide helps you navigate the financial aspects of starting a food truck in Utah.
Truck or Trailer Costs
Low Estimate:
$40,000
High Estimate
$120,000
Additional Year One Start-up Costs
Low Estimate:
$10,000
High Estimate
$40,000
How Much Should You Budget for Marketing in Utah
Making Smart Marketing Investments For Your Truck
• Invest in Data-Driven Marketing: Use CRM software like HubSpot or Salesforce ($50 to $200 per month) to analyze customer behavior for large event organizers and fine-tune your marketing efforts.
• Local Radio Ads: Running ads on Utah’s regional radio stations costs $300 to $600 and helps you reach commuters or those attending nearby events.
• Promote with Collaborations: Offer exclusive menu items tied to local events, partnering with event organizers for a percentage of your revenue or a flat fee of $500 to $1,000.
How Much Should You Budget for Marketing in Utah
Making Smart Marketing Investments For Your Truck
• Invest in Data-Driven Marketing: Use CRM software like HubSpot or Salesforce ($50 to $200 per month) to analyze customer behavior for large event organizers and fine-tune your marketing efforts.
• Local Radio Ads: Running ads on Utah’s regional radio stations costs $300 to $600 and helps you reach commuters or those attending nearby events.
• Promote with Collaborations: Offer exclusive menu items tied to local events, partnering with event organizers for a percentage of your revenue or a flat fee of $500 to $1,000.
Often Forgotten Operational Costs in Utah
When reviewing the start-up costs for a food truck in Utah, vehicle maintenance, including oil changes and tire replacements, costs $800–$1,500 annually. Propane and generator fuel expenses average $1,200–$2,500 annually. Waste disposal services, including grease trap cleaning, typically cost $500–$1,000 annually.
Fast Track to Six-Figure Food Truck Profit in Utah [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]
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The True Cost of Food Truck Insurance in Utah
Understanding the true cost of food truck insurance in Utah starts with knowing what coverage you need to protect your business and comply with state regulations.
General Liability Insurance Purpose: Protects against third-party bodily injury or property damage claims arising from your food truck operations. Requirement: Not legally mandated in Utah but highly recommended to safeguard your business. Estimated Cost: Approximately $300 to $700 annually for $1 million in coverage.
Commercial Auto Insurance Purpose: Covers your food truck vehicle in case of accidents, property damage, or bodily injury. Requirement: Mandatory in Utah, with minimum liability limits of $25,000 per person, $65,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. Estimated Cost: Between $1,200 and $3,000 per year, depending on factors like vehicle type and driving history.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance Purpose: Provides medical and wage benefits to employees injured on the job. Requirement: Mandatory in Utah for businesses with one or more employees. Estimated Cost: Approximately $1,000 to $1,800 annually, varying based on payroll and job risk classifications.
Product Liability Insurance Purpose: Covers claims related to foodborne illnesses or allergic reactions caused by your products. Requirement: Not legally required but essential for food service businesses to mitigate potential lawsuits. Estimated Cost: Often included within general liability policies; additional coverage may cost between $100 and $300 annually.
Equipment Coverage Purpose: Protects your kitchen equipment against theft, damage, or loss. Requirement: Optional but advisable to protect valuable assets. Estimated Cost: Ranges from $200 to $500 annually, depending on the total value of the equipment insured.
What It Costs to Start a Food Truck in Utah: Sample Budget
📄Licenses/Permits
$500 - $1,500
🚚Truck/Trailer
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🍽️Inventory/Supplies
$3,000 - $5,000
$30,000 - $90,000
📢Marketing
$3,000 - $8,000
💼Insurance
$2,000 - $4,000
How to Budget for Labor Costs When Starting a Food Truck in Utah
How to Pay Yourself as a Food Truck Owner in Utah
Utah’s growing food truck scene, driven by its vibrant communities and unique culinary culture, is perfect for determined entrepreneurs. By forming a Utah LLC, you create a pass-through entity that ties your business income to your personal tax return. Starting with a modest wage—say $15 an hour for part-time hours—ensures you can meet personal expenses while investing in your business. In Utah’s expanding market, paying yourself from the start helps you value your time and create a sustainable business foundation.
Fair Wages for Food Truck Employees: Utah Pay Rate Guidelines
In Utah, competitive wages help food truck owners build strong teams. Benchmarks like McDonald’s or Taco Bell suggest starting rates of $15–$18 per hour. Unified starting wages encourage teamwork, with raises rewarding effort and performance.
Understanding Payroll Taxes for Utah Food Truck Owners
In Utah, food truck entrepreneurs are responsible for federal payroll taxes, including Social Security, Medicare, and federal unemployment taxes (FUTA). Additionally, Utah requires employers to withhold state income tax from employees' wages and to pay State Unemployment Insurance (SUI) taxes. New employers typically start with a SUI tax rate of 1.2% on the first $44,800 of each employee's wages, with rates adjusted annually based on the employer's experience rating. To comply, register with the IRS for an EIN and with the Utah Department of Workforce Services for state withholding and unemployment accounts. Budgeting for payroll taxes is crucial, as they can add approximately 10–15% to wage expenses. Utilizing payroll software or professional services can streamline compliance and ensure timely filings.
Budgeting for a Food Truck or Trailer in Utah
Used Food Trucks and Trailers in Utah:
Food Trucks: Pre-owned food trucks in Utah typically range from $28,000 to $75,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.
Food Trailers: Used food trailers are generally priced between $22,000 and $50,000, influenced by size and amenities.
New Food Trucks and Trailers in Utah:
Food Trucks: A new, fully equipped food truck in Utah can cost between $85,000 and $175,000, depending on customization.
Food Trailers: New food trailers typically range from $50,000 to $100,000, influenced by size and specific build requirements.