Looking to buy a coffee truck in Australia? Here’s exactly what to spec, budget and check before you sign. Decide new vs used: used coffee vans/trucks AU$30k–$80k, quality new builds AU$90k–$180k+, custom premium AU$200k+. Target a light truck or van under 4.5t GVM with payload to carry water, generator and equipment. Power: 15A shore inlet plus a quiet 5–7kVA inverter generator or 5–10kWh lithium system; wire to AS/NZS 3000 with RCDs. Espresso: commercial 2‑group machine on a dedicated 15–20A circuit, filtered water with softening, 3–6 L/min pump, separate grinder. Fit-out: handwash basin with warm water, separate sink, food‑grade surfaces, potable tank, and equal or larger waste tank, fire blanket/extinguisher, ventilation. Gas appliances need AS/NZS 5601 certification. Compliance: register as a food business with the operating council, meet Food Standards Code 3.2.2A (Food Safety Supervisor, training, records), obtain local trading permits, roadworthy, and $20m public/product liability. Coffee quality: stable power, good filtration, fast workflow, and service access matter more than fancy finishes. Due diligence: PPSR and finance checks, weighbridge confirmation, leak and electrical test‑and‑tag, warranty on equipment, and references from recent clients; shortlist reputable builders like Food Trucks Australia or Custom Food Vans. Secure finance via chattel mortgage or equipment lease.
