7 Things to Consider When Buying a Mobile Kitchen

Mobile Kitchens USA offers customized mobile kitchen trailers and other mobile units for rent or purchase. Some mobile foodservice businesses, catering companies, special events coordinators and other businesses opt to purchase a mobile kitchen trailer because they are going to need it for long-term use. Sometimes a temporary rental just doesn’t make sense if the trailer is going to be a key part of your business model for years to come.

With this in mind, you want to be smart when designing and buying your mobile kitchen. Here are a few important factors to consider:

1. Type of Mobile Kitchen

There are actually many different types of mobile kitchens. You want a style that fits your business and foodservice needs, in terms of mobility, convenience, ease of use and other features. Some types of mobile kitchen options include:

– Mobile Kitchen Trailers
– Modular Kitchens
– Skid Kitchens
– Tent Kitchens
– Food Trucks
– Mobile Refrigeration/Freezer Trailers

2. Budget

Of course, you need to set a realistic budget when buying your own mobile kitchen. This is a major investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Don’t go cheap and cut corners because you might regret it. At the same time, you have to be careful not to overspend and get something that is bigger or fancier than you really need. Get a unit that will meet your specific requirements and set your budget accordingly.

3. Size

The size of the mobile kitchen is also important to consider. You have to project your daily foodservice and food preparation needs, as well as what size and type of appliances, work tables, sinks, dishwashers, cold storage space, dry storage space and other features you will require to meet your day-to-day food demands. You will need to make sure the mobile kitchen can accommodate your kitchen staff along with the quantities of means you will be preparing and serving every day.

4. New or Used?

As you figure out your budget, as well as the type and size of trailer that you need, you will also want to do your research on new and used mobile kitchen trailer options. There may be a used unit that perfectly fits your budget and foodservice requirements (even if it needs to modifications or repairs), and that can save you a lot of money. Or, you may need something specifically customized for your business and you will be better off investing in a new mobile kitchen unit that you can design from the ground up.

5. Equipment and Features

Speaking of customization, this is where you want to get creative while also remembering to be practical. Really think carefully about what features, appliances and layout will satisfy your requirements. Having a big deep fryer might be nice, but not very practical if you don’t serve much fried food. Do you need a basic stove with a couple burners or do you need a commercial-sized 6-8 burner stove? What type of oven(s) and grill(s) are best for you? Does there need to be a walk-in refrigerator/freezer or can it be a smaller standing unit? Do you need heat or air conditioning inside? Are you running on electricity, connecting natural gas lines or using strictly propane? These are all questions to ask as you customize your mobile kitchen trailer.

6. Licenses and Permits

As an extension of your business and as a commercial foodservice structure, all mobile kitchens will require specific licenses and/or permits to operate. These requirements can vary from state to state, county to county and city to city. Do your research and make sure your mobile kitchen meets the necessary regulations. At Mobile Kitchens USA, we are very much used to working within these kinds of parameters.

7. Trust & Reputation

Last but certainly not least, you want to work with a mobile kitchen company that you can trust. Mobile Kitchens USA has satisfied clients all over the country and we excel at creating custom-fabricated mobile kitchen units that work perfectly for all types of mobile foodservice businesses. We offer quality new and used mobile kitchen trailers and other custom mobile solutions for rent or purchase.

To learn more about Mobile Kitchens USA or to get started with designing your ideal mobile kitchen, contact us today.