How to Start a Food Truck in Indiana: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Developing a menu that resonates with the culinary preferences of Indiana's residents can significantly contribute to the success of a food truck. Networking with other food truck owners in Indiana can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration. One should identify strategic locations and events in Indiana that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business.
![Fast Track to Six-Figure Food Truck Profit in Indiana [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/aec654_e24f976b8d8e4824859d566a018ce149~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_562,h_375,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/aec654_e24f976b8d8e4824859d566a018ce149~mv2.jpg)
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Indiana
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Indiana
In Indiana, food trailers must be registered with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Registration is mandatory for all trailers that will be towed on public roads.
The required documents include proof of ownership (bill of sale), proof of insurance, and the completed registration application form.
Registration fees vary based on the trailer's weight: trailers under 3,000 lbs have a $25 annual registration fee, while those over 3,000 lbs pay $40 annually. For trailers over 10,000 lbs, permanent registration can be obtained for a one-time fee of $150.
In Indiana, food trailers are typically covered under the towing vehicle’s liability insurance. However, it is recommended that food truck operators acquire separate collision coverage for the trailer, especially to protect valuable equipment.
The minimum liability insurance requirements are $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage.
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Indiana
In Indiana, a Cottage Food Operation refers to a small-scale food business that operates from a home kitchen, producing non-potentially hazardous foods for direct sale to consumers. These businesses are typically exempt from certain licensing and inspection requirements that larger food establishments must adhere to, allowing individuals to start small-scale food businesses with fewer regulatory hurdles. The types of food products allowed, sales limitations, and labeling requirements are outlined under specific guidelines by the Indiana State Department of Health to ensure food safety standards are maintained.
Example of Successful Food Trucks in Indiana
Dashboard Food Truck & Catering
American food
Big Jerry Indy
American food
Chatterbox Food Truck
Gourmet food
How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in Indiana [2025]
In Indiana, food trailers must be registered with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Registration is mandatory for all trailers that will be towed on public roads.
The required documents include proof of ownership (bill of sale), proof of insurance, and the completed registration application form.
Registration fees vary based on the trailer's weight: trailers under 3,000 lbs have a $25 annual registration fee, while those over 3,000 lbs pay $40 annually. For trailers over 10,000 lbs, permanent registration can be obtained for a one-time fee of $150.
Indiana Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
Indiana requires trailers with a GVW exceeding 3,000 lbs to be equipped with a separate braking system.
This can be either electric or hydraulic. Trailers weighing under 3,000 lbs do not need separate brakes but must comply with all other safety requirements.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in Indiana
Indiana law mandates that food trailers have functioning tail lights and turn signals, and at least one red reflector on the rear visible from 500 feet. Each trailer must also have two safety chains, rated to the trailer's full GVW, which must be connected securely to the towing vehicle. The chains must be long enough to allow the trailer to pivot freely but short enough to prevent the trailer from hitting the ground.
