If you are considering starting a mobile catering business, converting a van into a food truck is a great way to go. Not only does it give you the flexibility to take your food to where your customers are, but it also allows you to serve a wider range of food than a traditional stationary restaurant.
However, not all vans are created equal when it comes to catering conversions. You need a van that is not only reliable and fuel-efficient but also has enough space to fit all your equipment and food supplies.
In this article, we will take a look at the 15 best vans for catering conversion, based on their size, reliability, and suitability for food service.
Best Vans for Catering Conversion
1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular choice for catering van conversion due to its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
The Sprinter offers ample storage space, making it ideal for catering businesses that require a lot of equipment. The van’s high roof and long body also provide more than enough space for kitchen equipment, prep areas, and storage.
2. Ford Transit
The Ford Transit is another popular option for catering van conversion. It offers a lot of space and versatility, with a range of body sizes and configurations.
The Transit has a low step-in height, making it easy to load and unload equipment. It also has a reputation for being reliable and affordable to maintain.
3. Ram ProMaster
The Ram ProMaster is a popular van for catering conversions due to its customizable and spacious interior. It has a unique front-wheel-drive design that provides good maneuverability and a smooth ride.
The ProMaster can be outfitted with various kitchen equipment, refrigeration units, and storage options, making it a versatile choice for businesses.
It also has a sturdy build and good fuel efficiency, making it a reliable and cost-effective option for catering conversions. Overall, the Ram ProMaster is a practical and efficient choice for those looking to convert a van for catering purposes.
4. Nissan NV Cargo
The Nissan NV Cargo is a tough and reliable cargo van that is ideal for catering conversions. It offers ample space, with a cargo area that is over 6 feet tall and 10 feet long.
The NV Cargo also features a comfortable and spacious cabin, making it an excellent choice for businesses that require a lot of driving.
5. Chevrolet Express
The Chevrolet Express is a full-size cargo van that is been a popular choice for catering conversions for many years. It’s affordable and reliable, with a reputation for being easy to maintain. The Express is also spacious, with a cargo area that is over 6 feet tall and 10 feet long.
6. GMC Savana
The GMC Savana is similar to the Chevrolet Express and offers the same benefits of affordability, reliability, and ease of maintenance. The Savana also has a spacious cargo area that is ideal for catering businesses that require a lot of equipment and supplies.
7. Fiat Ducato
The Fiat Ducato is a popular van for catering conversions due to its spacious and customizable interior. It has a strong and durable build, with good fuel efficiency, making it a reliable choice for businesses.
The Ducato can be fitted with a range of kitchen equipment, refrigeration units, and storage options, allowing businesses to create a customized setup that meets their specific needs. Overall, the Fiat Ducato is a versatile and practical option for catering conversions.
8. Volkswagen Crafter
The Volkswagen Crafter is another popular option for catering conversions in Europe. It’s a reliable and spacious van that offers a lot of features and versatility. The Crafter is also known for its fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for businesses that require a lot of driving.
9. Renault Master
The Renault Master is a versatile van that can be converted for catering purposes. It has a spacious and customizable interior, with options for refrigeration, cooking equipment, and storage.
The Master also has a sturdy build and good fuel efficiency, making it a reliable and cost-effective option for catering businesses.
It is easy to drive and maneuver, with good visibility and comfortable seating. Overall, the Renault Master is a practical and efficient choice for those looking to convert a van for catering purposes.
10. Peugeot Boxer
The Peugeot Boxer is a large van that is well-suited for catering conversions. It has a spacious interior that can be customized to fit the needs of the business, with options for refrigeration, cooking equipment, and storage.
The Boxer also has a robust build and good fuel efficiency, making it a reliable and cost-effective option for catering businesses. Overall, the Peugeot Boxer is a versatile and practical choice for those looking to convert a van for catering purposes.
11. Citroen Relay
The Citroen Relay is a reliable and spacious van that is popular for catering conversions in Europe. It offers a lot of features and versatility, with a range of body sizes and configurations. The Relay is also fuel-efficient, making it an excellent choice for businesses that require a lot of driving.
12. Toyota HiAce
The Toyota HiAce is a popular van for catering conversions due to its spacious and customizable interior. It has a durable build and good fuel efficiency, making it a reliable and cost-effective option for businesses.
The HiAce can be fitted with a range of kitchen equipment, refrigeration units, and storage options, allowing businesses to create a customized setup that meets their specific needs.
It is also easy to drive and maneuver, with good visibility and comfortable seating. Overall, the Toyota HiAce is a practical and efficient choice for those looking to convert a van for catering purposes.
13. Mercedes-Benz Vito
The Mercedes-Benz Vito is a versatile van that can be converted for catering purposes. Its spacious interior, customizable features, and durable build make it a popular choice for food service businesses.
The Vito can be outfitted with various kitchen equipment, refrigeration units, and storage options to suit the specific needs of the business. Overall, the Vito is a reliable and efficient option for catering conversions.
14. Ford Transit Connect
The Ford Transit Connect is a smaller van that is ideal for catering businesses with smaller operations. It offers a lot of space and versatility, with a cargo area that is over 5 feet tall and 7 feet long. The Transit Connect is also fuel-efficient, making it an excellent choice for businesses that require a lot of driving.
15. Citroen Dispatch
The Citroen Dispatch is a versatile van that can be converted for catering purposes. It has a spacious and customizable interior, with options for refrigeration, cooking equipment, and storage.
The Dispatch also has a durable build and good fuel efficiency, making it a reliable and cost-effective option for catering businesses.
It is easy to drive and maneuver, with good visibility and comfortable seating. Overall, the Citroen Dispatch is a practical and efficient choice for those looking to convert a van for catering purposes.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Vans for Catering Conversion
Choosing the right van for catering conversion can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, including size, fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, and ease of customization. Here are 15 factors to consider when choosing the best vans for catering conversion.
1. Size
The size of the van is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a van for catering conversion. A larger van will offer more space for food preparation and storage, while a smaller van may be easier to maneuver and park. Consider the size of your catering operation and the types of events you will be catering to when choosing the size of your van.
2. Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for any catering business that requires a lot of driving. Look for vans that offer good gas mileage or alternative fuel options like electric or hybrid engines.
3. Cargo Capacity
The cargo capacity of the van is another important factor to consider. Look for vans with a large cargo area or options for customizing the cargo space to fit your needs.
4. Customization Options
Consider the customization options available for the van you are considering. Some vans may offer more customization options than others, allowing you to tailor the space to fit your specific needs.
5. Durability
Choose a van that is built to last. Look for vans with sturdy construction and high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
6. Maneuverability
Consider the maneuverability of the van, especially if you will be catering in urban areas or tight spaces. Look for vans with good turning radius and easy handling.
7. Maintenance Costs
Consider the maintenance costs of the van you are considering. Look for vans that are reliable and easy to maintain, with readily available parts and service.
8. Brand Reputation
Choose a van from a reputable brand with a proven track record of quality and reliability. Research the brand and read customer reviews to get an idea of what to expect.
9. Safety Features
Look for vans with advanced safety features like backup cameras, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help keep you and your catering team safe on the road.
10. Storage Options
Consider the storage options available in the van. Look for vans with built-in shelves, racks, and compartments to keep your catering equipment organized and easily accessible.
11. Interior Features
Consider the interior features of the van, including climate control, lighting, and sound systems. Choose a van that offers a comfortable and functional workspace for your catering team.
12. Accessibility
Consider the accessibility of the van for loading and unloading catering equipment. Look for vans with side or rear doors that are easy to open and close.
13. Cost
Cost is an important consideration when choosing a van for catering conversion. Look for vans that offer a good balance of features and affordability.
14. Resale Value
Consider the resale value of the van you are considering. Look for vans that retain their value well, so you can recoup some of your investment if you decide to sell in the future.
15. Warranties and Service Contracts
Look for vans that come with warranties or service contracts to protect your investment and ensure that you have access to quality maintenance and repairs.
In conclusion,
There are a wide variety of vans that can be converted for catering purposes. The choice of van depends on the needs of the business and the type of catering operation.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Nissan NV Cargo, Chevrolet Express, and GMC Savana are all excellent choices for businesses that require a lot of space and versatility.