To buy a coffee truck in Paris and start serving fast, focus on compliance, location rights, and build specs from day one. Source a VASP “MAGASIN”–homologated vehicle (check carte grise) with Qualigaz gas certificate, 16–32A 230V electrical feed, water filtration, 70–100 L fresh/grey tanks, and an extraction hood; expect €40–80k used or €90–130k new. Register your company via the Guichet unique to obtain a SIRET (choose SASU/EURL if you want VAT recovery), complete HACCP training, file your DDPP opening declaration 15 days before trading, and secure RC Pro + auto insurance; add the “carte de commerçant ambulant” if selling outside your commune. Paris public streets require an occupation permit: apply to the City’s food-truck calls for tenders for designated slots, rent places on municipal markets via the placier (daily droit de place), or sign private-site agreements with offices, retail parks, and events. Ensure Crit’Air eligibility for the ZFE, noise-limited power (inverter generator or shore power), clear allergen display, and compliant extinguishers. Operational targets: a 2‑group espresso machine draws ~3–4 kW; plan 120–180 cups/day to break even, with spot fees €30–€80/day and coffee margins 70–85%. Find trucks via certified converters or used listings (Leboncoin, Truckscorner). Schedule preventive maintenance and water softening.
