Making People Smile: The Joy of Owning an Ice Cream Truck Business

Business Overview:

If you love the idea of putting smiles on peoples’ faces while enjoying the freedom of a lucrative enterprise, consider starting an ice cream truck business. And freedom is the key word when it comes to this low-stress business idea. As an owner, you can choose where, when and how much you work, you need no special degree or education to get started, and your startup costs can be as basic (a simple ice cream cart and your own two legs) or as extravagant (one or more trucks with all the bells and whistles or even an ice cream truck franchise) as your budget allows. You can even get your sea-legs in a weekend-only, second-income business scenario until you realize the potential of this venture, though once you see how much profit there is to be made you might just quit your day job. Perhaps the best part of this business is that it is a consistent market – kids will always eat ice cream and parents will always be cajoled into buying it for them. Even in uncertain economic times, ice cream remains an inexpensive treat that makes people happy.

A Day in the Life of an ice cream truck business owner:

A typical day for the owner of an ice cream truck business will begin with attention to the small details. You must ensure your ice cream truck is well maintained and operating effectively for the safety of both your customers and your business. You’ll also need to keep up with your inventory of ice cream and novelty products and stock your freezers before you start your route. Getting an early start on your route is the best plan to maximize your income potential, and you will want to take note of your sales “hot spots” and frequent them. Before, during and after your hours of operation, you will want to keep your cash flow organized and accurate, whether with a bookkeeping ledger or with a spreadsheet application. Possibly the most important part of your day will be remembering to smile and enjoy your interactions with the many children (and adults) who are the mainstay of your business.

About Your Customers:

Your customers will be the children and adults in the neighborhoods or venues in which you establish your routes.

What You Need to Start:

• An ice cream cart, van or truck with appropriate freezers and icons/decals for safety and marketing purposes.
• An ice cream truck business license (varies from location to location; check with the town hall) and any permits you may need to operate your business.
• Ice cream truck insurance and liability insurance, if necessary for your specific business.
• Your ice cream inventory and a reliable and cost-effective supplier.
• A good route or location for selling your product.

The Good:

• You dictate your schedule from day one.
• Startup and maintenance can be inexpensive.
• Selling ice cream is a steady and profitable business.
• The work itself is not stressful and can be very enjoyable.

The Bad:

• The seasons and the weather can affect your business and profits.
• A child-heavy customer base can be trying if you’re having an off day.

Resources:

• International Association of Ice Cream Distributors and Vendors
• National Ice Cream Retailers Association
• Wikipedia on Ice Cream Vans

About The Author

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