To buy a coffee truck in Zurich, start by defining a CHF 80–160k budget (used CHF 60–110k, new CHF 120–180k) and selecting a 3.5‑ton chassis (Ducato/Sprinter) that stays under B‑license limits after the build-out. Insist on recent MFK, payload certificate, gas/electrical conformity (SVGW/SUVA), and a service layout that supports a 2‑group machine (3–5 kW), grinder, fridge, and handwash sink with hot water. Zurich operations hinge on power: target 5 kW via 32A CEE shore power; if off‑grid, pair a 10 kWh LiFePO4 + 5 kW inverter with a quiet Stage V generator (<65 dB) and never idle (city ban). Fit 70–100 L freshwater, 90–120 L greywater, smooth washable surfaces, and install a BWT‑type filter; Zurich water hardness (~8–9 dH) requires descaling discipline. Permits: prioritize private sites (offices, retail parks) with written agreements while you apply for public Standplatz slots and event trading; build your HACCP plan and register with Kanton Zürich Lebensmittelkontrolle early (4–8 weeks). Practical picks: 16A/32A hookups, winter heating for pipes (drain nightly), CO2 extinguisher + blanket, TWINT/contactless POS, branding visible at 10 m. Source via Autoscout24/Ricardo/Tutti or Swiss builders (Streetfoodwerk, BROS). Decision rule: power first, then workflow, then permits; test demand at markets before locking a lease.
