Could I make a good living with a bbq truck catering?

njsmoker · Joined: 09 Apr 2009 Posts: 13

I love to BBQ, small parties and family mostly here in NJ. I have learned a lot from all the experienced pros out there.

My simple question is...Are there any guidlines/advice BBQ books anyone could advise me in starting out with a small trailer to either cater parties or park along the road and sell my goods.

Any advice would be helpful...it's about time to do something I'm passionate about.

Any leads on used trailers for sale would also be helpful.

Thanks Guys,

Chuck

allsmokenofire · Posted: Aug 29 2009 Post subject:

First, I'd start w/ your local health department and find out what requirements they expect you to meet. Second, I'd look for used equipment on ebay and/or your local craigslist.com.

Once you get those knocked out, there's plenty of great info and members here to take you to the finish line.

Best of luck!!!
_________________
Mike
Team Enoserv

BBQMAN · Posted: Aug 29 2009 Post subject:

Hey there Chuck!

As Mike mentioned, your local HD is the place to start. The rules differ widely.

What you will want before getting started is a "PLAN REVIEW"

There is a virtual (pun intended) wealth of information that could fill several books here at the ring.

The catering section probably has more on roadside vending, but there are a few here too.

Try the search function out available at the top of the page here.

I do a limited amount of festivals, and have had limited success doing roadside vending. My catering business is well established and of course business has been off for us and just about everyone else i know in the food industry.

Not to say is wouldn't work for you, but now would be a very difficult time to be new in the food business.

There are currently a few listings in our Buy/sell/trade section for trailers and catering trucks.

JM2C, YMMV.
_________________
BBQMAN
"I Turned A Hobby Into A Business".
Providing "IMHO" Since 2005.

Louie3 · BBQ Super Pro Joined: 04 Aug 2007 Posts: 1407

Sure you can with a good plan and a quality product...people have to eat regardless of a recession and the local naysayers... Wink

marvsbbq · BBQ All Star Joined: 15 May 2005 Posts: 6186

EVERY venture had the POTENTIAL to be successful. It's just there are a TON of things going against it at any given time.

For your suggested venture, I would say if you have the $$$ backing to get started and maintain your venture and your lifestyle while you build your business to the point of being able to sustain itself...however long that may take.
_________________
Often imitated but never duplicated