How Much Will You Spend to Start a Food Truck in Wisconsin
Starting a food truck in Wisconsin involves budgeting for costs like purchasing or leasing a truck, installing kitchen equipment, and securing permits. Cities like Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay have thriving food truck markets, with demand at festivals and local breweries. Equipment needs, such as fryers or grills for Midwestern comfort food, can significantly affect your budget. Commissary kitchens are essential for operations, and their availability and fees may vary across regions. This guide helps you break down start-up costs and prepare for success in Wisconsin.
Truck or Trailer Costs
Low Estimate:
$30,000
High Estimate
$85,000
Additional Year One Start-up Costs
Low Estimate:
$5,000
High Estimate
$20,000
How Much Should You Budget for Marketing in Wisconsin
Making Smart Marketing Investments For Your Truck
• Partner with Local Businesses: In Wisconsin’s brewery-rich cities like Milwaukee and Madison, partnering with craft beer venues can increase visibility. Offer to share 10-20% of your revenue or pay a flat fee of $300 to $800 for exclusive events.
• Focus on Seasonal Opportunities: At events like the Wisconsin State Fair, vendor fees can range from $500 to $1,500. These large-scale gatherings are excellent opportunities to gain exposure and connect with new customers.
• Paid Social and Traditional Ads: Running paid ads on local platforms, such as Milwaukee Magazine or community radio stations, costs $100 to $500 and targets regional food lovers effectively.
How Much Should You Budget for Marketing in Wisconsin
Making Smart Marketing Investments For Your Truck
• Partner with Local Businesses: In Wisconsin’s brewery-rich cities like Milwaukee and Madison, partnering with craft beer venues can increase visibility. Offer to share 10-20% of your revenue or pay a flat fee of $300 to $800 for exclusive events.
• Focus on Seasonal Opportunities: At events like the Wisconsin State Fair, vendor fees can range from $500 to $1,500. These large-scale gatherings are excellent opportunities to gain exposure and connect with new customers.
• Paid Social and Traditional Ads: Running paid ads on local platforms, such as Milwaukee Magazine or community radio stations, costs $100 to $500 and targets regional food lovers effectively.
Often Forgotten Operational Costs in Wisconsin
The start-up costs for a food truck in Wisconsin should include commissary kitchen rentals, which cost $400–$1,200 monthly depending on location. Propane and generator fuel expenses typically range from $1,200–$2,500 annually. Waste disposal services, including grease trap cleaning, add $500–$1,000 annually.
Fast Track to Six-Figure Food Truck Profit in Wisconsin [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]
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The True Cost of Food Truck Insurance in Wisconsin
Understanding the true cost of food truck insurance in Wisconsin starts with knowing what coverage you need to protect your business and comply with state regulations.
General Liability Insurance Covers injuries to customers or property damage caused by your food truck in Wisconsin. Not legally required but highly recommended to protect your business. Estimated Cost: $300–$800 annually for $1 million in coverage.
Commercial Auto Insurance Covers accidents and property damage involving your food truck. Mandatory in Wisconsin with minimum liability limits of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage. Estimated Cost: $1,500–$3,000 annually, depending on vehicle type and driving history.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance Provides medical expenses and lost wages to employees injured on the job. Mandatory for businesses with three or more employees in Wisconsin. Estimated Cost: $1,000–$1,500 annually, depending on payroll and job risk classifications.
Product Liability Insurance Covers claims of foodborne illnesses or allergic reactions caused by your food truck’s menu. Not legally required but essential for food service businesses. Estimated Cost: Often included in general liability policies; additional coverage may cost $100–$300 annually.
Equipment Coverage Protects kitchen equipment against theft, damage, or loss. Optional but recommended to protect valuable assets. Estimated Cost: $200–$500 annually, depending on the value of the equipment insured.
What It Costs to Start a Food Truck in Wisconsin: Sample Budget
📄Licenses/Permits
$500 - $1,500
🚚Truck/Trailer
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🍽️Inventory/Supplies
$3,000 - $5,000
$30,000 - $90,000
📢Marketing
$3,000 - $8,000
💼Insurance
$2,000 - $4,000
How to Budget for Labor Costs When Starting a Food Truck in Wisconsin
How to Pay Yourself as a Food Truck Owner in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s food truck market, with its strong community focus and popular events, offers plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs who plan ahead. Most food truck owners establish a Wisconsin LLC, a pass-through entity where business income is reported on their personal tax return. Paying yourself a modest wage—such as $15 an hour for part-time work—ensures you can meet personal expenses while reinvesting in your business. Prioritizing your pay during the first year helps create a solid foundation for success in Wisconsin’s growing food truck community.
Fair Wages for Food Truck Employees: Wisconsin Pay Rate Guidelines
In Wisconsin, competitive wages are key to attracting versatile food truck employees. Benchmarks like Culver’s or Olive Garden suggest starting rates of $16–$19 per hour. Equal pay for all roles promotes teamwork, with raises rewarding growth or loyalty.
Understanding Payroll Taxes for Wisconsin Food Truck Owners
In Wisconsin, food truck entrepreneurs must manage federal payroll taxes, including Social Security, Medicare, and federal unemployment taxes (FUTA). Additionally, Wisconsin requires employers to withhold state income tax from employees' wages and to pay State Unemployment Insurance (SUI) taxes. New employers typically start with a SUI tax rate of 3.05% on the first $14,000 of each employee's wages, with rates adjusted annually based on the employer's experience rating. To comply, register with the IRS for an EIN and with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development for state withholding and unemployment accounts. Budgeting for payroll taxes is crucial, as they can add approximately 10–15% to wage expenses. Utilizing payroll software or professional services can streamline compliance and ensure timely filings.
Budgeting for a Food Truck or Trailer in Wisconsin
Used Food Trucks and Trailers in Wisconsin:
Food Trucks: Pre-owned food trucks in Wisconsin typically range from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.
Food Trailers: Used food trailers are generally priced between $15,000 and $45,000, influenced by size and amenities.
New Food Trucks and Trailers in Wisconsin:
Food Trucks: A new, fully equipped food truck in Wisconsin can cost between $90,000 and $180,000, depending on customization.
Food Trailers: New food trailers typically range from $50,000 to $110,000, influenced by size and specific build requirements.