An ice cream truck business is a super idea that could fetch you loads of money if you know how to go about it. It requires a range of equipment to ensure smooth operations and quality service.
Below is a list of essential equipment you need, along with approximate price ranges. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on brand, location, and whether you choose to buy new or used equipment.
Ice Cream Truck Equipment
-
Ice Cream Truck or Van
First off, consider getting an ice cream van. An ice cream truck is a commercial vehicle that serves as a mobile retail outlet for pre-packaged ice cream. Ice cream vans are often seen parked at public events, or near parks, beaches, or other areas where people congregate.
Price: The cost varies depending on whether you buy new or used, and whether it comes pre-fitted with equipment. Purchasing an ice cream truck ranges from $10,000 – $60,000+.
-
Freezer/Display Freezer
What is an ice cream business without a freezer? If you are looking for a great way to display your tasty ice cream, then you need to get a display freezer.
When choosing a display freezer, you need to consider figuring out a few things which include; what kinds of items will you be storing in your freezer, and how many items.
What is more, you will need a commercial-grade freezer to store and display your ice cream. A glass-top freezer allows customers to see the ice cream options.
Price: Purchasing a freezer ranges from $500 – $3,000+
-
Soft Serve Machine (if applicable)
Soft serve, also known as soft ice, is a frozen dessert and variety of ice cream, similar to conventional ice cream, but softer and less dense due to more air being introduced during freezing. Soft serve has been sold commercially since the late 1930s in the United States.
While the most basic machines only dispense one flavor of the mix at a time, specific models of soft-serve machines have an additional nozzle that dispenses a mixture of two different flavors simultaneously. This mixture emerges in a distinct swirl pattern. Its distinctive flavor on menus is classified as a swirl or twist.
Price: Purchasing a soft serve machine ranges from $3,000 – $10,000+
-
Generator
When it comes to running a successful ice cream food truck, having a reliable source of power is essential. The generator you choose should be able to withstand the demands of operating in various weather conditions and for extended hours. Evaluate different fuel options for your generator, such as gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas.
Each fuel type has its advantages and considerations, including availability, cost, and environmental impact. A reliable generator is essential to power your freezers, soft serve machines, and other electrical equipment.
Price: Purchasing a generator for your ice cream business ranges from $1,000 – $5,000+
-
Ice Cream Scoops/Dispensers
You need to have some great scoops and dispensers to make for the smooth running of your ice cream truck business. The primary function of these objects or tools is culinary.
The scoop is used to easily transfer ice cream into dishes or cones, and can also be used to keep other foods from sticking to spoons or ladles while cooking. Basic utensils like scoops, spatulas, and serving tools are necessary for handling ice cream.
Price: Do note that purchasing ice cream scoops and dispensers for your ice cream business ranges from $5 – $30 each.
-
POS (Point of Sale) System
A POS system will help with accepting payments, keeping track of sales, and managing customer orders. You may opt for a tablet-based system with a card reader.
As an ice cream shop owner, choosing the right Point-of-Sale (POS) system is crucial for running your business efficiently and effectively. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the best fit for your business.
Price: Purchasing a POS for your ice cream business ranges from $200 – $1,500+
-
Refrigerator
The need for a refrigerator cannot be over-emphasized. You will of course need freezers which should be bolted to the frame and floor of your truck.
It is a good idea to hire a professional refrigeration mechanic to make sure your freezers have the proper power supply and maintain the proper temperatures.
You can choose from either commercial chest freezers, which are typically between five and eight feet long, or smaller, non-commercial freezers.
To determine which type of freezer you should invest in, calculate the floor space you have available in the truck and estimate how much space you will need to store a full day’s worth of ice cream.
Price: Purchasing a refrigerator for your ice cream business ranges from $500 – $2,000+
-
Blender
In starting an ice cream truck business, the importance of a blender cannot be watered down. An ice cream blender is a powerful machine that can be used to blend and mix ice cream with other ingredients.
This machine can help you to create a variety of ice cream flavors and add-ins, from fruit and candy to nuts and cookies. With an ice cream blender, you can create custom flavors and unique ice cream creations that will set your shop apart from the competition.
Price: Do note that purchasing a commercial blender for your ice cream business ranges from $100 – $500+
-
Serving Counter or Workbench
These are non-negotiable when starting an ice cream truck business. A serving counter and workbench are essential components for an ice cream truck business, as they provide space for preparing and serving your ice cream products.
It is where you will interact with customers, take orders, and serve the ice cream. It is super vital that this area is clean, durable, and functional.
Price: Purchasing a serving counter and workbench for your ice cream business ranges from $200 – $1,500+
-
Topping Dispensers
Toppings are such an added delight to ice creams, this is why they are a must-own. These units are designed to hold all of your favorite toppings in one convenient location, making it easy for operators or customers to customize their treats.
From sprinkles and chocolate chips to nuts and candy pieces, there’s something for every taste preference. These topping stations are perfect for ice cream shops, food trucks, and other frozen dessert establishments. With a range of sizes and styles to choose from, you can find the perfect option for your business.
Price: Purchasing toppings dispensers for your ice cream business ranges from $100 – $500+
-
Cones, Cups, and Serving Supplies
Cones, cups, and serving supplies are essential items for an ice cream truck business that you should not do without, as they are used to serve the ice cream to customers. Sugar cones are crisp and slightly sweet, sugar cones have a smaller opening and are great for holding firm scoops.
Waffle cones are larger and sturdier with a waffle texture, offering a premium look and feel. Stock up on cones, cups, spoons, napkins, and other serving supplies. Costs will vary depending on the type and quantity of supplies.
Price: Do note that purchasing cones, cups, and serving supplies for your ice cream business ranges from $100 – $500 (initial stock)
-
Signage/Branding (Menu Board, Truck Wrap)
One way to get noticed as you start is through marketing. To attract customers, your truck should have clear, attractive branding.
This includes a logo, truck wrap, and a menu board displaying your offerings. Catch the attention of potential customers by implementing eye-catching marketing strategies. Use vibrant signage, colorful graphics, and attractive branding on your ice cream truck.
Distribute flyers or coupons in the local community and collaborate with influencers or local media outlets to generate buzz around your business.
Price: Do note that investing in signage and branding materials for your ice cream business ranges from $500 – $5,000+
-
Cleaning and Sanitization Equipment
Cleaning supplies are a food safety requirement – stock your ice cream shop with all the cleaning supplies you need to ensure your space meets all federal, state, and local food safety standards.
Essential for maintaining hygiene, you will need cleaning supplies like sanitizing wipes, dish soap, and brushes, along with a hand-washing station if required by local health regulations.
Price: Do note that purchasing cleaning and sanitization equipment for your ice cream business ranges from $100 – $500+
-
Temperature Monitor
To ensure food safety, you will need a temperature monitoring device for your freezer and refrigerator to keep ice cream and other products at the proper temperature.
Refrigerated trucks are used to transport ice cream from manufacturing facilities to distribution centers, retail stores, and other points of sale.
Temperature monitoring during transportation is crucial to ensure the product remains within the required temperature to avoid degradation.
Price: Do note that purchasing a temperature monitor for your ice cream business ranges from $50 – $200+
-
Napkin/Towel Dispensers
Ensure you have dispensers for napkins or towels for customers and cleaning. Food handlers with poor hygiene and poor handling practices can spread bacteria to ice cream.
Examples of poor practices include inadequate hand-washing, using dirty machines and equipment, using dirty utensils; that is utensils that haven’t been cleaned properly before use, as well as using unclean dishcloths or serving cloths.
Price: Purchasing napkins and towels for your ice cream business ranges from $50 – $100+
-
Marketing Materials (Flyers, Social Media Ads)
Allocate funds for marketing efforts, including flyers, business cards, and social media advertising to promote your ice cream truck.
The kind of branding you should do for your ice cream truck business should catch everyone’s attention immediately. Design an eye-catching logo, colorful truck wrap, and appealing signage.
Utilize social media to promote your truck’s location and special promotions. Also, engage the local community in convincing discussions about ice creams.
Price: Price: Investing in marketing materials for your ice cream business ranges from $100 – $1,000+
-
Sinks and Dishwashing Equipment
You cannot start an ice cream truck business without sinks and dishwashing equipment. They are essential for maintaining cleanliness and meeting health regulations in an ice cream truck business.
Price: Do note that purchasing sinks and dish-washing equipment for your ice cream business ranges from $300 – $2,000+
-
oven
Gas ovens are the most common type of heat source seen on a food truck. This is why you have got to consider getting one. When you purchase one, all you need to do is connect a couple of tanks on the outside or stash them somewhere in the truck in a safe location. These create heat through a central burner in the bottom, activated by a pilot light which needs to be kept on.
Price: Do note that purchasing a gas oven for your ice cream business ranges from $2,000 – $3,000+
-
Ice maker
An icemaker, ice generator, or ice machine refers to either a consumer device for making ice, a stand-alone appliance for making ice, or an industrial machine for making ice on a large scale.
The ice generator is the part of the ice machine that produces the ice. This would include the evaporator and any associated drives/controls/subframe that are directly involved with making and ejecting the ice into storage.
Price: Do note that purchasing an ice machine for your ice cream business ranges from $500 – $1,500+.