THE HUDSON TRAILER COMPANY
FAQ's
Answers to common questions about mobile business costs, customization, maintenance and more.
What is the cost of a mobile business?
The cost of your mobile business can vary. You need to take into consideration the equipment you need for the type of service you are focusing on, the volume of product you are trying to sell, and you always want to grow into your build, not grow out of it. All these factors will influence the cost.
Do I provide my own vintage trailer?
If you have a vintage airstream or a rare vintage trailer, we will quote out a mobile business transformation. However, we do not repurpose older smaller trailers for several reasons. The axle rating will likely not be heavy duty to withstand the weight of a large amount of equipment. Older trailers are not meant to have the framing to support most mobile businesses as well.
Does it cost less to provide an older trailer vs. building a new one?
We choose to build new trailers, vs. repurposing and old trailer. If we repurpose an older trailer, we have to gut it and rebuild it back up, completely changing things like electrical, plumbing and framing. With a new custom trailer, you will have all the proper structure and heavy duty axle for safety and longevity and it gets built once, the right way.
What do I need to do to prepare to buy a mobile business with HTC?
Reach out to us and get a quote on your project. If you would like a custom project, you may place a deposit to begin research and development of your project.
We take a 50% deposit to begin your project, with the balance due at completion.
Once you have secured your financing, reach out to us to get a finalized quote on your project and we can start the mobile business journey with you.
What are build timelines?
Trailers take 12-16 weeks to build, depending on the complexity of the equipment and design details.
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Step vans take 4-6 months to build, since we also upgrade the van to more modern mechanical.
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Shipping container proejcts take 10-20 weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
How booked up are you and when could I start my project if I am ready to place my deposit?
Our Construction times vary throughout the year. We have a large facility in Jacksonville, FL so often we can accommodate your build into the production schedule within a month or so. It is always best to assume that we have a small wait list and you book your project as soon as possible to reserve your space.
Can I make my trailer different than the standard model?
Yes, you can. We can create a special one of a kind build out for you and your business vision. We know stock options aren't for everyone, so that is why we have our custom design studio. Our custom design studio takes a deposit for research and development of your project to create your custom mobile business vision. This R & D fee will be deducted from your contract when you book.
I need help with the business side of things, do you help?
Yes, we offer entrepreneur classes for mobile business owners. It can be daunting launching a new business. These business classes help ensure your mobile business gets off on the right foot. Whether you are launching a coffee trailer, food truck or bar trailer for private events, you will gain knowledge that will help lead you to success!
You can click here to purchase a class or a pdf of how to launch your mobile business.
How do I maintain my bar trailer throughout the event & wedding season?
It is important to do bi-annual maintenance on your trailer or truck to insure longevity.
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Sealing countertops and all wood areas anytime they appear dry
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Checking fittings and plumbing connections throughout
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Clean your draft lines after each use with a draft line cleaner and change your lines once a season.
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Checking exterior sealant and touch up any scratches
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Properly winterize and protect when not in use.
Your mobile business will shift over time and through transport.
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Are you Airstream Renovators?
Hudson Trailer Company renovates vintage Airstream trailers into mobile bars, coffee units, and brand activations. We handle layout, CAD, plumbing, electrical, polishing, and exterior branding so your Airstream trailer looks iconic and works hard at events.
Do you build and sell custom mobile bars?
Buy direct from Hudson Trailer Company. We design and build custom mobile bar trailers, vintage step vans, and Airstream bars with refrigeration, sinks, power, and brand-forward finishes, delivered nationwide.
Do you sell pre-designed mobile coffee trailers?
Hudson Trailer Company offers pre-designed coffee trailer layouts in 14-foot and 17-foot sizes with espresso machine, grinders, refrigeration, sinks, and service window. Choose your upgrades and branding and we ship across the United States.
How do I start a mobile coffee trailer business?
Start with a clear menu and route, then choose trailer size and equipment that match your volume. Hudson Trailer Company provides CAD drawings, equipment planning, power and plumbing specs, and build options so you can launch a mobile coffee shop fast and grow with confidence.
Do you build and sell custom brand activation trailers and corporate activations?
We create experiential trailers, pop-up bars, photo booth trailers, and sampling units that showcase your brand, with turnkey interiors and exterior graphics ready for tours and events. Order a custom brand activation trailer from Hudson Trailer Company and take your brand on the road!
Do I need a commissary for a mobile coffee trailer or mobile bar?
Many cities require a commissary or licensed prep location for mobile food and drink operations. A commissary provides approved water filling, waste disposal, storage, and sometimes dishwashing. Requirements vary by county, so always check local health department regulations during plan review. Hudson Trailer Company supplies CAD drawings and equipment specs for your application and can design fresh and waste tank sizing, hand and three-compartment sinks, and power and plumbing layouts that match your commissary plan.