To buy a coffee truck in Italy, budget, compliance, and vehicle spec come first: expect €12k–€30k for a used Piaggio Ape setup, €40k–€90k for a Fiat Ducato-sized truck, and €100k+ for premium custom builds from converters like VS Veicoli Speciali or StreetFoody. Choose an EU-homologated vehicle (carrozzeria speciale food truck) with CE-certified equipment, 100–150 L potable water and a grey tank 10–20% larger, fire extinguisher 6 kg, and ventilation compliant with ASL guidelines. Power the 3–4 kW espresso machine with a silenced 6–7 kW inverter generator (≤65 dB) or a 10–15 kWh lithium pack with 5–8 kW inverter; many city centers restrict LPG and noise. Set up a Partita IVA, ATECO for mobile food service, register with INPS, and file SCIA (food) via SUAP with your HACCP plan; obtain the commercio su aree pubbliche authorization (Type B itinerant or Type A posteggio). Most regions require SAB qualification (ex-REC) or proven experience. Install a registratore telematico for corrispettivi, accept cards (POS mandatory), and carry RC Auto plus RCT/RCO liability. For daily operations secure Occupazione Suolo Pubblico (Canone Unico) and check ZTL access. Decision tip: prioritize water capacity, electrical autonomy, and serviceability over flashy finishes; downtime kills margin and customer throughput targets.
