Essential Coffee Truck Equipment Checklist: Everything You Need to Get Started

Starting a coffee truck business is exciting, but outfitting your truck with the right equipment can feel overwhelming. Unlike a café with plenty of space and power, a mobile coffee truck has unique requirements: limited room, power constraints, and the need for efficient, durable gear that can handle daily use.

To help you plan with confidence, we’ve created the ultimate coffee truck equipment checklist for 2025. Whether you’re budgeting your first build-out or upgrading your setup, this guide covers everything you’ll need to brew, steam, store, and serve on the road.

Core Coffee Equipment

These are the heart of your operation — without them, you can’t serve your customers.

1. Espresso Machine

Your espresso machine is your most important investment. Look for compact, commercial-grade models that balance power and portability.

• What to consider: Power requirements, boiler capacity, number of groups, durability.

• Examples: La Marzocco Linea Mini (premium compact), Nuova Simonelli Appia Life Compact (reliable workhorse).

2. Coffee Grinder

Consistency matters. A commercial grinder ensures every shot tastes the same.

• What to consider: Burr type (flat vs conical), speed, dosing options.

• Examples: Mahlkönig K30 Twin, Mazzer Super Jolly.

3. Drip Coffee Brewer (Optional)

While espresso-based drinks are the core of most trucks, having drip coffee can serve customers looking for quick, classic options.

• What to consider: Brew volume, power draw, batch size.

Power & Water Systems

A truck is only as good as its utilities. Without reliable power and water, your equipment won’t run.

4. Generator or Power System

You’ll need enough wattage to power your espresso machine, grinders, and refrigeration simultaneously.

• Tip: Most trucks use a quiet, commercial-grade generator (Honda EU7000i is a popular choice).

5. Water Tanks & Filtration

Espresso machines need clean water to last and produce great flavor.

• What you need:

  • Fresh water tank (30–50 gallons recommended)

  • Waste water tank (at least 15% larger than fresh tank)

  • Water pump

  • Filtration/softening system to protect equipment

Cold Storage & Food Safety

Even if you’re just serving coffee, milk and syrups must be stored properly.

6. Refrigeration Unit

A compact commercial fridge or undercounter unit works best.

• Tip: Consider dual-zone fridges if you’ll stock food as well.

7. Ice Maker or Cooler (Optional)

If you plan to serve iced lattes, cold brew, or blended drinks, you’ll need ice. Some trucks rely on portable ice makers or purchase ice daily.

Workflow & Serving Essentials

These items make day-to-day operations smooth and professional.

8. POS System & Cash Drawer

Today’s customers expect fast, card-based payments. A mobile-friendly POS like Square or Clover Flex is ideal.

9. Cups, Lids & Serving Supplies

Stock up on eco-friendly paper cups, lids, napkins, stirrers, and sleeves. Branded cups can double as marketing.

10. Milk Pitchers & Barista Tools

Don’t forget the small essentials: tampers, knock box, scales, thermometers, frothing pitchers.

11. Blenders (Optional)

If you want to serve frappes, smoothies, or blended drinks, invest in a commercial blender like a Vitamix or Blendtec.

Truck Layout & Fixtures

The right setup will maximize speed and minimize stress during rushes.

12. Countertops & Shelving

Durable, wipeable surfaces are a must for health codes. Stainless steel is standard.

13. Hand Sink & Triple Sink

Most health departments require a hand-washing sink plus a 3-compartment sink for washing, rinsing, and sanitizing utensils.

14. Lighting & Ventilation

Good lighting keeps operations safe; ventilation prevents overheating and ensures compliance.

Marketing & Branding

Your equipment doesn’t stop at what’s inside the truck. How you present your business matters too.

15. Exterior Signage & Menu Board

Invest in clear branding and a visible menu. Chalkboards or digital menu boards let you update pricing and specials easily.

16. Uniforms & Branding Materials

Simple branded aprons, stickers on cups, and social media handles on your truck help reinforce your identity.

Coffee Truck Equipment Checklist (Printable)

Here’s a quick reference list you can use as a build-out guide:

• Espresso machine

• Grinder(s)

• Drip brewer (optional)

• Generator or power system

• Fresh/waste water tanks

• Water pump + filtration

• Refrigerator

• Ice maker/cooler (optional)

• POS system

• Cups, lids, napkins

• Pitchers, tampers, barista tools

• Blender (optional)

• Countertops/shelving

• Hand sink + triple sink

• Lighting & ventilation

• Menu board/signage

Final Thoughts

Setting up a coffee truck is all about balancing space, power, and efficiency. The right equipment will help you serve customers quickly, keep drinks consistent, and meet health code requirements — all while keeping your build-out within budget.

If you’re just starting out, begin with the core essentials: espresso machine, grinder, generator, and refrigeration. From there, add extras like blenders or cold brew systems as your business grows.

Remember: every piece of equipment is an investment in your business. Choose gear that’s durable, reliable, and designed for the unique demands of a mobile café. With this checklist in hand, you’ll be well on your way to serving great coffee — anywhere the road takes you.