This case study was submitted from one of our customers and provides a detailed look at how running one of our carts can be an ideal venture for the right person.

• 1/2 ton highway suspension system which allows it to travel up to speeds of 70 miles per hour behind your vehicle.

• 18 gauge all stainless steel custom made cart, these are made by hand by the manufacturer Willy Dogs which by the way was featured on the food network channel last night.

• Operates and heats water and steam table with a 20lb propane tank (not included due to regulations)

• Ton’s of under cart storage for all of your items

• A large insulated box to keep your drinks or meat product in, this is wet/dry ice held.

• Hot & cold water handsink

• 1 sink is included but additional sinks can be added as optional

• 5 bay steamtable. 3 large pans 2 small. Plenty of room for a great menu.

• 1 7/8 inch ball towing package installed

• Light kit included but not installed due to vehicle variances

Every county is different even though we all live in the same state. By the way I live in Fort Wayne Indiana and have been running hot dog carts here for 6 years.

Call your county and ask questions.

Do you need a commissary? A commissary is a licensed food establishment that will vouch for you, stating in a letter that they will let you use their place for storage and preparation of food as well as cleaning the unit. This could be a bar, restaurant, gas station or meat market that you have obligated yourself to purchase all your meat from. They will need to give you a letter to give to the county.

Depending on your food choices you will probably need someone to be a certified food handler. This isn’t a huge deal. It consists of food safety education, I teach the classes and administer the exam here in Ft Wayne for $115.00. My next class is in Feb. This is a state exam. You may find that you could take it on campus. ( Certified Food Manager Exam) approved by the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals.

Your cart will come with a small start up kit to include mustard dispensers, tongs and a couple of other items. The only thing you would really need to purchase to start up your cart is a ice model condiment tray, apron, hat and fill your propane tank to be off and running.

Not sure how much your permit is, each county is different. My runs about $195.00 per year.

Here’s a projected profit model to look at. Each will differ depending on your food choice and cost: