Choosing the right trailer size is the most important decision when starting a food truck. Too small limits you; too big is wasted money and hard to maneuver.
Key question: how many work stations do you need?
A station is a dedicated area for one function: grill, fryer, griddle, prep, assembly. Add up how many you need and use this guide:
10ft - 12ft: Compact operations (1-2 stations)
Ideal for simple concepts: hot dogs, snacks, beverages. One person operates comfortably. Low movement cost.
14ft - 16ft: The sweet spot (2-3 stations)
Our best-selling model. Space for grill + griddle + prep, or grill + fryer + assembly. Allows two people to work without bumping.
18ft - 20ft: Robust operations (3-4 stations)
For more varied menus or high volume. Space for heavy equipment and multiple cooks simultaneously.
23ft: Premium kitchens (4+ stations)
For large catering, corporate events or multi-category concepts. Practically a mobile restaurant.
Do not forget these factors
- Where will you park? Some places have size restrictions.
- What vehicle will tow it? A 23ft requires a heavy-duty truck.
- How much do you think your menu will grow? Better to have a bit more space than you need today.
At DK Trailers we help you make the right decision. Contact us for free advice.