Portlanders are weird! Why do they call food trucks, food carts?

The difference between a food truck and a cart can be quite profound. On the surface, both mobile food providers can offer delicious food options to those on the go, however the specifics of each can vary wildly.

From an engineering standpoint, the main difference between a food truck and a cart are their size and capacity for equipment. Food trucks are typically about 12 to 24 feet long, larger than food carts and often capable of holding more cooking and preparation equipment. Food carts generally measure much less, typically around 4 x 8 feet, and are typically limited to space for only a single countertop griddle or hot plate, a limited number of ingredients, and a shallow storage space.

In terms of the cooking process, a food truck is more capable when it comes to creating, preparing, and serving multiple food items. Food trucks tend to offer a greater variety of food items, including hot sandwiches, main-course meals, sides, beverages, and desserts. They also offer customers more ‘eye candy,’ thanks to the capabilities of larger cooking equipment like panini makers, pizza ovens, and fryers. Food carts, on the other hand, often specialize in one type of food, such as hot dogs, burritos, or sandwiches.

In terms of cost, both food trucks and carts offer cost-effective solutions for businesses that want to enter the world of mobile food service. A food truck may require a greater financial investment initially due to the cost of purchasing and outfitting the truck. However, over time, the larger capacity will typically lead to a greater return on investment. Food carts are less expensive to purchase and outfit and can be located in highly busy areas quickly and with less effort, making them a great option for those looking to quickly get their business off the ground.

Finally, food carts tend to provide a more exclusive customer experience. Since they serve only a few food items, they tend to attract a more niche market, allowing vendors to better cater to their regulars. Food trucks, on the other hand, offer a larger variety and therefore a larger customer base.

In the end, no single mobile food provider is the right option for everyone. Whether you choose a food truck or a cart, you can find a great way to provide delicious food quickly and at a low cost. That said, it is important to understand the differences between a food truck and a cart, both in terms of engineering and customer experience, so that you can make the best decision for your business.