Launching a food truck shares many similarities with opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant. You still need the right equipment, inventory, branding, staffing, a reliable vehicle, and—most importantly, working capital to get started. Even after opening day, consistent cash flow remains critical to sustain operations, manage seasonal fluctuations, and capitalize on growth opportunities.
Unfortunately, securing funding through a traditional bank can be difficult for many food truck owners. Limited time in business, less-than-perfect credit, or lack of collateral often stand in the way of approval. That’s where alternative financing through CFG Merchant Solutions can make a real difference.
At CFG Merchant Solutions, we specialize in flexible funding options designed for small businesses that don’t always fit the bank’s mold. Our financing solutions help food truck owners access the capital they need quickly, without unnecessary red tape, so they can focus on serving customers and growing their brand.
How Small Business Financing Supports Food Truck Owners
A single infusion of cash isn’t always enough to cover the ongoing costs of running a food truck. From daily expenses to unexpected repairs or expansion plans, access to working capital can help keep your business on track.
Food truck financing can be used for:
- Purchasing or upgrading a food truck
- Buying food and supplies
- Covering overhead and operating expenses
- Marketing and promotional efforts
- Payroll and staffing costs
- Expanding to new locations or events
- Branding, wraps, and signage
Understanding Food Truck Loans
Starting and maintaining a food truck requires a meaningful financial investment, not just in the vehicle, but also in kitchen equipment, permits, staffing, and marketing. While banks often rely heavily on credit scores and collateral, CFG Merchant Solutions takes a more practical approach.
We focus on your business performance and revenue, not just your credit profile. Our streamlined application process allows food truck owners to explore funding options quickly and efficiently, often receiving approval and funding in a fraction of the time compared to traditional lenders.
Types of Food Truck Financing Available
CFG Merchant Solutions offers multiple financing solutions that can be tailored to the needs of food truck businesses.
Short-Term Business Loans
When cash flow tightens or an unexpected expense arises, short-term financing can help bridge the gap. These loans provide a lump sum of capital that can be used for immediate needs such as inventory restocking, fuel costs, or urgent repairs.
Repayment terms are shorter than traditional loans, and the funding process is fast, making this a practical option for time-sensitive situations.
Equipment Financing
Food trucks rely heavily on specialized equipment to operate efficiently. Equipment financing allows you to purchase essential items—such as grills, refrigeration units, or prep equipment—without paying the full cost upfront.
You’ll make fixed payments over time, and once the financing is complete, you own the equipment outright. This option can also provide potential tax advantages, as equipment purchases may be deductible depending on your situation.
SBA Loans for Food Trucks
SBA-backed loans are designed to help small businesses access longer-term financing with competitive rates. These loans are partially guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, which can make lenders more willing to extend credit.
While SBA loans often offer favorable terms, they typically require more documentation and longer approval timelines. CFG Merchant Solutions can help determine whether this option makes sense for your food truck business.
Business Line of Credit
A business line of credit offers flexible access to capital when you need it most. Similar to a credit card, you’re approved for a maximum limit and can draw funds as needed. Interest is only charged on the amount you use.
Once you repay the balance, your available credit replenishes—making this an excellent option for managing ongoing expenses or handling seasonal revenue swings common in the food truck industry.
How to Get Food Truck Financing with CFG Merchant Solutions
The funding process starts with a simple application. Unlike traditional bank applications, ours is fast, straightforward, and designed with small business owners in mind.
You’ll provide basic information such as:
- Desired funding amount
- Time in business
- Estimated revenue
- Purpose of funds
From there, our team reviews your application and works to match you with the best financing option available. Many food truck owners receive approval within 24–48 hours, with funding shortly after.
Eligibility Requirements for Food Truck Financing
While requirements vary by financing type, CFG Merchant Solutions offers options for businesses at different stages of growth. In general, food truck owners should expect to meet minimum criteria related to:
- Time in business
- Monthly revenue
- Overall business performance
We also offer solutions designed for businesses with fluctuating revenue, making financing more accessible even if your income varies week to week.
Get Started with CFG Merchant Solutions
Securing funding for your food truck doesn’t have to be complicated. CFG Merchant Solutions is committed to helping entrepreneurs access fast, flexible capital so they can keep their businesses moving forward.
Whether you’re launching your first truck or expanding your fleet, our team is here to help you explore financing solutions that fit your goals.
Food Truck Financing FAQs
What are the benefits of financing a food truck?
Financing allows you to preserve cash flow while investing in equipment, inventory, and growth opportunities. It also helps you manage expenses without draining personal savings.
What can food truck financing be used for?
Funding can be used for vehicle purchases, equipment, inventory, marketing, staffing, operating expenses, and expansion.
Do I need perfect credit to qualify?
No. CFG Merchant Solutions looks beyond credit scores and considers overall business performance and revenue.
Can I get food truck financing with bad credit?
Yes. Many alternative financing options are designed for business owners with less-than-perfect credit.
What documents are required to apply?
Documentation varies by funding type, but the process is generally streamlined and requires far less paperwork than traditional bank loans.
What is the best financing option for my food truck?
The best option depends on your business needs, cash flow, and goals. Short-term loans, lines of credit, and equipment financing are all popular choices for food truck owners.