To buy a coffee truck in Delaware, vet units against Delaware Division of Public Health Mobile Food Establishment standards and secure licensing and parking approvals before you pay. Expect $80k–$200k total: used trucks $60k–$150k, new builds $120k–$250k, plus insurance and punch‑list fixes. Prioritize NSF-listed equipment, a 7–10 kW inverter generator with 50A shore power, 30–40 gal fresh and 45–60 gal gray water (air-gapped), 3-compartment and hand sinks, 120°F on-demand hot water, water treatment (softener + carbon), 220V/20–30A for espresso, and refrigeration that holds ≤41°F. Form an LLC with the Delaware Division of Corporations, get an EIN, obtain a Delaware business license, and register for Gross Receipts Tax with the Division of Revenue. Apply for a Mobile Food Establishment permit: submit menu, layout, equipment spec sheets, commissary letter, and a certified Food Protection Manager (e.g., ServSafe); schedule plan review and pre-opening inspection. Register the vehicle at DMV, carry commercial auto and general liability, add workers’ comp when you hire. Clear fire code with the State Fire Marshal (propane approval, correct regulators, tagged extinguishers, suppression if cooking). Secure vending permissions: Wilmington peddler license, county/park/event permits, and private-lot agreements. Timeline: 4–12 weeks build, 1–3 weeks inspections. Consider SBA microloans and Delaware EDGE Grants.
