One detail which is typically overlooked when starting a food truck venture is the kind of license a driver requires to operate a food truck legally. This usually depends on the vehicle’s gross weight. This figure is the entire weight capacity of a truck that is fully loaded. This includes driver, passengers, fuel, equipment, cargo, and accessories. Depending on the type of truck you wish to use, a standard drivers license will let you drive a food truck of up to 26,000 GVW. This is reassuring since numerous food trucks can weigh from 8,000 to 16,000 GVW.
In case you end up buying a truck with a 26,001 GVW or more, the necessary driver’s license is the CDL better known as the Commercial Driving License. Normally, the required driver’s license is class B in this kind of situation. The requirements to acquire this kind of license are mentioned here though they are summarized explanations and you will require confirming with your city or state to know more about their specific requirements to prevent any fines or issues associated with driving using the wrong kind of license.
Insurance For Food Trucks
It is necessary for us to mention that we are not insurance agents. You are supposed to consult with a professional insurance agent when it comes to insuring your food truck business and shielding your assets. As an owner and operator of a food truck, you are part of an industry to bring high-quality food to clients in every location. Whether you focus on foodie meals or you prefer to provide the greatest lunchtime snacks, it is vital that you have food truck insurance to cover yourself, your business as well as your employees.
Each food truck owner is acquainted with city licenses and permits. To become a licensed food truck owner in numerous cities, you require having general Liability as well as other insurance policies. Your expenses will vary based on some particulars of your food truck business though these figures can offer a reasonable estimate.
Even though you may be building a fantastic food truck, it’s just a part of the equation which has to be addressed concerning your vehicle as well as business. This is where insurance comes in. Whenever clients do business with you, there is always a possibility that something could go the wrong way. Famous incidents such as bodily injury or damage of property can take place at any time, and it is necessary that you be protected from extra costs as well as claims that could come up unexpectedly.
No one knows when an accident will occur although even small claims can position your venture in a tricky situation. Claims can also come from your workers, from accidents which take place on the job. Although you need to recognize that accidents do not only occur in the kitchen. Just driving your vehicle from one area to another gives room for many chances for accidents from you or the other drivers on the road.
Besides, your truck can be stolen which will position you at a place where you go through losses for days or even weeks which will be very devastating for your venture. When shopping for insurance for your truck, ensure the insurance firm understands the requirements of mobile food trucks as well as their owners.
The industry involving food trucks is merely a small portion of the food & beverage industry, and it is necessary that you be sure that the firm you choose can provide the coverage you require. Some of the services you should inquire about are:
- Operations and product coverage
- Commercial auto and general liability
- Premises damage
- Business property as well as personal property coverage
- Compensation of the workers
- Unemployment insurance
- Excess liability – Umbrella coverage
- Cyber liability
The insurance firms will also perform checks on the people responsible for driving your food truck. These usually are Motor Vehicle Reports. If you employ drivers who fall under a specific risk profile, it will lead to increased premiums for your venture. There are chances that the insurance firm may opt not to cover your business at all due to risky drivers you have employed. Therefore, before applying for insurance, asses the driving records of the drivers to know how many driving violations or accidents they have had within the last three years if any.
Other Insurance Requirements
If you want to do business at different venues and events, you may require proving you are insured before being allowed on the property. This is generally known as an Additional Insured Certificate. It can include venues such as festivals, private areas, food truck pods and more. Numerous venues need that your policy has at least $1,000,000 General liability coverage. This will shield the place from accidents due to your business activities on their property. Every certificate will cost approximately $25 – $100 or even more. If you work for many events in a year, these costs can accumulate swiftly. Although you can request beforehand whether an insurance firm requires fees for the certificates.
Several insurance firms will not charge you extra fees for this. Research appropriately in this area and look for advice from an insurance agent. Because food trucks have a small portion of the food & beverage industry, several insurance providers may not be acquainted with the particular policies or requests for food trucks.
Ensure you ask plenty of queries and see whether they are acquainted with the food & beverage industry and the requirements of food truck owners. Just like consulting with a doctor, it is worth looking for second and third opinions on this matter to ensure you are adequately covered.