You’ll have to determine many things if you operate a mobile food truck, but one of the most important is where to park it on any given day. Location can make or break your business, and you should expect to run into obstacles such as traffic, laws, permits, and competition. That’s why having a few options of where to park is so important. Consider these location ideas when making your plans, and be sure to use social media to update your followers on where you’ll be and when.

3 Places to Park Your Food Truck For Success

1. Where The People Are

Every town has areas that are more popular than others. Maybe it’s a dog park or heavily trafficked business district. Do your research by asking around, and then investigate those spots during lunch or dinner times to verify foot traffic. This will also help you find the best location to park your mobile food truck while there. If there are other food trucks nearby, don’t worry. Variety is a good thing, so unless you’re in a crowd of food trucks all serving similar types of food, you’re bound to attract customers.

2. Places That Allow Food Trucks to Park There

Sometimes, the most heavily trafficked areas have regulations you must adhere to or laws forbidding food trucks from parking there. If you find a great spot, call the city government to find out if any local ordinances forbid food trucks. You’ll also need to acquire the proper permits. If they say no, simply ask for a referral to streets that allow mobile food trucks.  Think outside the box by reaching out to other businesses, such as heavily staffed office buildings or entertainment centers, to ask permission to park in their parking lot during peak hours. Oftentimes, they consider this a perk for their employees.

3. Special Events

Many food trucks specialize in parking at arenas or near venues hosting special events. Concerts, festivals, and graduations are common examples. While a fee might be required to set up on the premises, it can be worth it if the special event is a popular one. Once at the venue, find a prime location away from any other food trucks serving the same type of food as you, preferably near the main events. 

Of course, making sure you have an attractive and well-equipped mobile food truck is crucial to draw foot traffic to your location, too. Shanghai Mobile Kitchen Solutions specializes in equipping chefs on the east coast with the finest in kitchenware and mobile kitchens. Their team will also design and craft a mobile food truck specifically for your business in New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Maryland, and North Carolina. Call (800) 253-4815 to schedule a consultation, or contact them online to learn more about their mobile kitchen solutions.