Discover Prime Second Hand Food Vans for Sale Across the UK

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November 25, 2025

On November 25, 2025

Thinking about starting your own food business on wheels? It’s a brilliant idea! Getting your hands on one of the many second hand food vans for sale across the UK can be a smart way to get going without breaking the bank. But where do you even start looking, and what should you be keeping an eye out for? Let’s dive in and get you sorted.

Key Takeaways

When looking for second hand food vans for sale, think about what you’ll be cooking and how much space you need.
Check online marketplaces, specialist dealers, and even local ads to find a good selection of used food vans.
Always inspect the vehicle thoroughly, look at its service history, and get a mechanic to check it over if you can.
Make sure you understand all the legal bits, like food safety rules and gas safety checks, before you buy.
Don’t forget to budget for unexpected costs, like repairs or upgrades, on top of the van’s price.

Finding Your Perfect Second Hand Food Van

Right then, let’s get down to finding you a cracking second-hand food van. It’s a big step, but with a bit of know-how, you’ll be serving up your tasty treats in no time.

Key Considerations Before You Buy

Before you even start looking, have a good think about what you actually need. What kind of food are you selling? How much kit do you need to store and cook with? This will dictate the size and type of van.

Menu: Does it need a big oven, a fryer, or just a griddle?
Volume: How many customers do you expect to serve at peak times?
Space: Do you need room for prep, storage, and serving?
Power: What power sources will you need (gas, electric, generator)?

Think about where you’ll be trading too. Some areas have restrictions on vehicle size or type. Getting this right from the start saves a lot of hassle later. Starting a food trailer involves costs for the trailer itself (new, used, or pre-converted), essential equipment like cooking appliances and refrigeration, and power generation. Legal requirements include registering your business, obtaining permits and licenses (which vary by location), and ensuring safety certifications like food hygiene and gas safety. Operational costs like utilities and strategic location selection for events or trading opportunities are also crucial for success. Careful planning and budgeting, including a contingency for unexpected expenses, are vital. You can find more details on starting a food trailer.

Where to Search for Second Hand Food Vans

There are a few good places to start your hunt:

Online Marketplaces: Websites dedicated to used vehicles or catering equipment are your best bet. You’ll find a huge variety.
Specialist Dealers: Some dealers focus purely on used food trucks and trailers. They often know their stock well.
Catering Equipment Auctions: Keep an eye out for auctions; you can sometimes bag a bargain, but be prepared to act fast.
Social Media Groups: Many food van owners and traders share listings in dedicated Facebook groups or forums.

Understanding Vehicle Condition and History

This is where you need to be sharp. Don’t just fall for a shiny exterior. You need to know what you’re buying.

Mechanical Check: Get a mechanic to look over the engine, brakes, and suspension if possible. A breakdown on the road is a costly nightmare.
Equipment Check: Test all the cooking equipment, fridges, and any electricals. Make sure they work as they should.
Gas Safety: Always ask for a recent gas safety certificate. This is non-negotiable for safety.
Vehicle History: Ask for service history and any past repair records. Check the MOT status too.

A thorough inspection is your best defence against buying a lemon. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or walk away if something doesn’t feel right. It’s better to be safe than sorry when you’re investing in your livelihood.

Remember, a bit of research now can save you a lot of headaches and money down the line. Happy hunting!

Essential Equipment for Your Mobile Kitchen

Right then, let’s talk about kitting out your mobile kitchen. This is where the magic happens, so getting the right gear is a big deal. You want stuff that’s tough, reliable, and fits your menu.

Cooking Appliances: Griddles, Fryers, and Ovens

Your main cooking kit is the heart of the operation. Think about what you’ll be serving. Burgers and bacon? A good flat-top griddle is your best mate. Frying up chips or doughnuts? You’ll need a decent fryer. Some vans even have small ovens for baking or keeping things warm.

Griddles: Look for even heat distribution. Stainless steel is easy to clean.
Fryers: Gas fryers are common in vans for power. Check the capacity – how many portions can you do at once?
Ovens: Compact convection ovens are great for versatility.

The right appliances mean faster service and happier customers.

Refrigeration and Storage Solutions

Keeping food safe is non-negotiable. You’ll need fridges and freezers to store ingredients and prepped items. Think about space – under-counter units are popular for fitting into tight spots. Shelving and storage bins are also key for keeping everything organised and tidy.

Under-counter fridges: Space-saving and accessible.
Freezer drawers: Good for ice cream or frozen goods.
Prep surfaces: Stainless steel is hygienic and easy to wipe down.

Proper storage prevents waste and keeps your food safe to eat. Always check temperature controls.

Essential Safety Features and Gas Systems

Safety first, always. Gas systems need to be installed correctly and checked regularly. You’ll need regulators, hoses, and changeover valves if you’re running on LPG bottles. Fire extinguishers are a must, and good ventilation is vital to stop fumes building up.

Gas regulators: Make sure they’re the right pressure (usually 30mbar for catering). Automatic changeover valves are handy so you don’t run out mid-service.
Hoses: Check for wear and tear. Replace them if they look dodgy.
Ventilation: Extractor fans are important, especially if you’re doing a lot of frying.

Don’t forget things like non-slip flooring and easy-to-reach emergency stops. It’s all about making sure you, your staff, and your customers are safe.

Popular Second Hand Food Van Types

Right then, let’s talk about the actual vehicles. When you’re looking at second-hand food vans, you’ll see a few main types. Each has its own pros and cons, so it’s worth knowing what you’re getting into.

These are probably what most people picture when they think of mobile food. They’re towed behind a car or van. They can be really spacious inside, giving you loads of room to work. Plus, they often come already kitted out with basic kitchen stuff, which is a bonus.

Pros: Good workspace, often cheaper to buy than a full truck, can be left on site.
Cons: Need a suitable towing vehicle, can be tricky to manoeuvre in tight spots.
Example: Think of a traditional fish and chip trailer or a burger van.

These have become super popular. Horse boxes are built tough and often look pretty cool once they’re done up. They offer a unique vibe and can be surprisingly roomy. They give your business a really distinctive look.

Pros: Stylish and unique, robust build, good height inside.
Cons: Can be more expensive to convert, might need significant work to meet food standards.
Example: A trendy coffee bar or a gourmet burger van often uses these.

These are vehicles that were designed from the ground up as mobile kitchens. They’re often more modern and might have better layouts for workflow. You can find all sorts, from small vans to big lorries. If you’re serious about a professional setup, these are worth a look. You can find a good range of these on sites like Truck Locator UK.

Pros: Designed for catering, often more efficient layout, can be easier to drive than towing.
Cons: Can be pricier, might have higher mileage if they’ve been used commercially.
Example: A dedicated pizza truck or a large mobile restaurant.

When you’re checking out any vehicle, always think about how much space you really need for your cooking equipment and for your staff to move around safely. Don’t just go for the biggest one you see; make sure it fits your specific needs.

Budgeting for Your Second Hand Food Van

Initial Purchase Price Factors

So, you’ve found a food van that ticks your boxes. But what’s a fair price? It’s not just about the sticker price. Think about the van’s age, its mileage, and how much work it looks like it’s had done. A shiny new-ish van will cost more than one that’s seen a few festivals. Also, consider the equipment already inside. Does it have a top-notch fryer or just a basic hot plate? That all adds up.

Hidden Costs to Anticipate

Don’t forget the extras that creep in. You’ll need to factor in:

Repairs and Upgrades: Even a good van might need a new tyre, a lick of paint, or a better coffee machine. Always have a bit of cash set aside for this.
Insurance: This can be surprisingly pricey for a commercial vehicle, especially one serving food.
Licences and Permits: Depending on where you plan to trade, you’ll need various permissions.
Initial Stock: You can’t sell food without, well, food!
Branding: Signage, menus, and maybe even some cool stickers.

Financing Options for Your Business

Most people don’t have thousands just lying around. So, how do you pay for it?

Bank Loans: The traditional route. You’ll need a solid business plan.
Asset Finance: This is where you borrow money specifically to buy the van, and the van itself acts as security.
Personal Savings: If you’ve got some saved up, it reduces the amount you need to borrow.
Crowdfunding: For the more adventurous, you could try raising funds from the public.

Remember, the cheapest van isn’t always the best deal. A slightly more expensive one that’s reliable and already kitted out could save you a fortune in the long run. Always do your sums!

Legal and Regulatory Checks

Right, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Before you start slinging burgers, you need to make sure your van and your business are ticking all the right legal boxes. It’s not the most exciting part, but it’s dead important.

UK Food Safety Standards

This is non-negotiable. You need to be registered as a food business with your local council. Do this at least 28 days before you start trading. You’ll also need to get a food hygiene certificate. Most people aim for a Level 2 certificate, which covers the basics. It shows you know how to handle food safely and stop people getting ill. Your reputation depends on it.

Register your business: Contact your local authority well in advance.
Get certified: Complete a food hygiene course.
Keep records: Maintain logs for cleaning, temperature checks, and pest control.

Remember, a clean van and good practices aren’t just for show; they’re legal requirements that protect your customers and your business.

Vehicle Roadworthiness and MOT

Your van needs to be safe to drive on UK roads. That means it needs a valid MOT certificate if it’s over three years old. Check the tyres, brakes, lights, and general condition. A dodgy van can lead to fines, breakdowns, and unhappy customers waiting for their food.

Check MOT status: Use the government website to see if it’s up to date.
Inspect tyres: Look for wear and tear, and check the pressure.
Test lights and brakes: Make sure everything is working as it should.

Gas Safety Certificates

If your van uses LPG or any other gas for cooking, this is a big one. You need a Gas Safety Certificate, usually renewed annually. This proves that all your gas appliances and pipework are safe. Get this checked by a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer. It’s a legal requirement and vital for preventing fires or gas leaks. You can find engineers on the Gas Safe Register website. This is a key part of making sure your mobile kitchen is safe to operate.

Making a Smart Purchase

So, you’ve found a food van that looks the part. Brilliant! But before you hand over your hard-earned cash, let’s make sure it’s a truly smart move.

Inspection Checklist

This is your chance to be a detective. Don’t rush it. Get in there and check everything. A thorough inspection can save you a fortune down the line.

Engine and Mechanics: Listen for strange noises. Check the oil and fluids. Does it start easily? A quick test drive is a must.
Kitchen Area: Look for rust or damage. Are the surfaces food-grade? Check all appliances are working – gas and electric.
Gas and Electric Systems: Are they up to date? Get proof of recent safety checks. This is non-negotiable for safety and legality.
Tyres and Brakes: Check the tread depth and condition. Brakes should feel solid. Remember, you’re carrying heavy equipment.
Chassis and Bodywork: Look for any signs of major repairs or damage. Small dents are one thing, but structural issues are a big red flag.

Negotiating the Best Deal

Found a few minor issues during your inspection? That’s your bargaining power. Be polite but firm. Know what the van is worth and what repairs might cost.

Research Prices: See what similar vans are selling for. Websites like Gumtree or Ebay often list a range of prices for
Factor in Repairs: If it needs new tyres or a service, use that to lower the price.
Be Prepared to Walk Away: If the seller won’t budge and the price isn’t right, there will be other vans.

Securing Your Second Hand Food Van

Once you’ve agreed on a price, it’s time to sort out the paperwork. Make sure everything is clear and legal.

Payment: Agree on the payment method. A bank transfer is usually safest.
Ownership Transfer: Ensure the V5C logbook is transferred into your name. This proves you own the vehicle.
Insurance: Get your insurance sorted before you drive it away. You’ll need commercial vehicle insurance.

Remember, buying second hand is a great way to get started in mobile catering without a massive initial outlay. But it requires diligence. A bit of extra time spent checking things over now can prevent major headaches and costs later on.

Ready to Roll?

So there you have it. Finding a second-hand food van doesn’t have to be a massive headache. There are loads of options out there across the UK, whether you’re after a classic ice cream van or something a bit more modern for street food. Take your time, do your checks, and you’ll soon be serving up your delicious grub to happy customers. Good luck with the hunt!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I actually find these second-hand food vans in the UK?

Loads of places! You can check out online marketplaces like Gumtree, eBay, and specialist vehicle sites. Sometimes, catering equipment suppliers also have used vans or trailers. Don’t forget to look at local classified ads or even ask around in the food truck community – word of mouth is a powerful thing!

What sort of things should I be looking out for when I check a used food van?

Make sure the engine runs okay and there are no weird noises. Check the bodywork for rust, especially around the wheel arches and underneath. Inside, look at the condition of the kitchen equipment – is it clean and working? And definitely ask for any service history or receipts for repairs.

Are there any specific UK rules I need to know about for a food van?

Yeah, there are a few important ones. You’ll need to make sure your van meets UK food safety standards, which means things like having proper handwashing facilities and surfaces that are easy to clean. You’ll also need a valid MOT for the vehicle and a gas safety certificate if you’re using LPG.

How much should I expect to pay for a decent second-hand food van?

It really varies! A basic, older trailer might set you back a few thousand pounds, while a more modern, kitted-out truck could be £10,000 or much more. The price depends on the age, condition, size, and what equipment is already included. Always factor in extra cash for any upgrades or repairs you might need.

What if I can’t afford to buy a van outright?

Don’t worry, there are options! Many people get business loans or finance deals specifically for food trucks. You could also look into leasing options. Sometimes, starting with a smaller, cheaper trailer and upgrading later is a good plan.

Is it worth getting a professional to check the van before I buy it?

Absolutely! If you’re not a mechanic yourself, getting a trusted mechanic to give the vehicle a once-over is a really smart move. It could save you a massive headache and a lot of money down the line if they spot a problem you missed.