Concession Trailers

Concession trailers are used for a wide range of food and beverage businesses—BBQ, tacos, burgers, snow cones, funnel cakes, coffee, and more. The right setup depends on your menu and the equipment you need. Make sure the trailer's electrical system can handle your appliance load, and verify that your county health department requirements are met before your first event.

Yes. In Texas, mobile food units are regulated by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and your local health authority. You'll need a food handler's license, a mobile food unit permit, and approval for your water supply and wastewater disposal setup. Requirements vary by county, so contact your local health department early in the planning process.

Size depends on your menu complexity and the number of people working inside the trailer. A 16' trailer works well for simple menus with one or two operators. A 22' porch trailer gives you more workspace, more room for equipment, and a dedicated service area. Think about how much equipment you need, how many people will be working simultaneously, and how much storage you need for supplies.

A porch trailer has an extended covered area—usually at the rear—that serves as a customer-facing service window or prep area. It gives you more functional space outside the main trailer body without increasing the overall trailer length dramatically. The porch setup is popular for high-volume events where you need more room to interact with customers or stage completed orders.

Most commercial concession trailers use 30-amp or 50-amp shore power connections. If you're working events with no hookup, you'll need a generator sized to handle your total appliance load—add up the wattage of every piece of equipment you run simultaneously and add a 20% buffer. A licensed electrician familiar with food service trailers can help you size the system correctly.

Some trailers come pre-plumbed with fresh water and wastewater tanks; others are shells that require a build-out. Check the specific trailer listing for what's included. Texas health regulations require a three-compartment sink, a handwashing sink, a fresh water supply, and an approved wastewater disposal system for mobile food units—confirm your trailer meets these requirements before purchasing.

It depends on the trailer's loaded weight and your truck's tow rating. A fully equipped 16' concession trailer can weigh 5,000–8,000 lbs or more once stocked with supplies and equipment. A heavy-duty pickup (F-250, F-350, or equivalent) is typically required. Check your truck's tow capacity and make sure you have the right hitch class—most concession trailers use a 2-5/16" ball or gooseneck depending on configuration.

Start with local farmers markets, county fairs, festivals, and sports events—most have vendor applications on their websites. Food truck parks and private event venues are another option. Facebook groups for Texas food truck and trailer operators are useful for finding spots and sharing information on permit requirements. Having a consistent social media presence helps attract private event bookings as well.

You'll need commercial auto insurance that covers the trailer while in transit, plus general liability insurance for when you're operating at events. Many event organizers require proof of liability coverage—typically $1 million per occurrence—before allowing vendors on site. Some vendors also carry product liability coverage. Talk to an insurance agent who works with food businesses for the right policy combination.

A used concession trailer can save money upfront, but inspect it carefully. Check the frame and floor for rust or soft spots, test all electrical connections, look at the condition of any built-in equipment, and verify the plumbing is intact. Ask about its service history and whether it's ever failed a health inspection. A used trailer from a reputable dealer that has been inspected is lower risk than buying privately without documentation.