[Free 2025 Guide] How to Start a Food Truck in Montana
Networking with other food truck owners in Montana can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration. One should identify strategic locations and events in Montana that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business. Consider the weather and seasonal factors in Montana when planning the operation schedule and menu for the food truck.
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Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Montana
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Montana
In Montana, food trailers must be registered if their Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) exceeds 2,000 lbs. The registration fee for trailers under 2,000 lbs is $20 annually, while trailers over 2,000 lbs have a registration fee of $40 annually.
To register, you must provide the trailer's title, proof of insurance, and a completed application form. Trailers over 6,000 lbs may require a separate weight certificate. Farm-use trailers are exempt from registration, but they must still meet safety standards.
In Montana, the liability insurance for the towing vehicle generally extends to the trailer. However, food truck owners are advised to purchase additional collision or comprehensive insurance for their trailers, especially for valuable kitchen equipment.
Minimum liability coverage for the towing vehicle is $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Montana
Cottage Food Operations enable approved product sales via internet or phone but mandate face-to-face transactions between seller and consumer. They prohibit third-party delivery services like couriers or shipping firms, as well as platforms like Amazon or eBay where direct buyer-seller interaction doesn't occur. This model prioritizes direct, personal exchanges for these homemade goods.
Example of Successful Food Trucks in Montana
Cosmic Cafe and Catering Food Truck
Taco
Garden City Taqueria
Authentic Mexican food
Electric Poke
Hawaiian style food
How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in Montana [2025]
In Montana, food trailers must be registered if their Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) exceeds 2,000 lbs. The registration fee for trailers under 2,000 lbs is $20 annually, while trailers over 2,000 lbs have a registration fee of $40 annually.
To register, you must provide the trailer's title, proof of insurance, and a completed application form. Trailers over 6,000 lbs may require a separate weight certificate. Farm-use trailers are exempt from registration, but they must still meet safety standards.
Find a Food Truck for Sale in Montana
Montana Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
Montana mandates that food trailers with a GVW of 3,000 lbs or more must have a separate braking system. Electric brakes are preferred but hydraulic braking systems are also permissible.
For trailers weighing less than 3,000 lbs, a separate braking system is not required. However, all trailers must be equipped with a functional braking mechanism.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in Montana
Montana law requires food trailers to have at least two red tail lights visible from a distance of 500 feet, along with functioning brake lights and turn signals. Trailers must also be equipped with amber reflectors on the sides. Additionally, each trailer must have at least one safety chain connecting the trailer to the towing vehicle. The safety chain must be rated to handle the trailer's full GVW and should be able to secure the trailer in case the hitch fails.
