How to Buy a Used Hot Dog Cart

A hot dog cart is the basic staple for the hot dog vendor. It keeps the buns warm, the dogs rotating and the customers in a solid line to sell and make money.

A used hot dog cart is a difficult purchase as you have more risk than if you purchased a new cart. Hence you need to know how to buy a solid cart.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. The hot dog cart needs to be certified by the health department. When you buy a cart, see if it has been previously inspected and what the rating was. Get the seller to agree it has to be checked and licensed by the health department (this is a free service) if it hasn't been already reviewed and accepted.

2. The hot dog cart needs to be mobile. It could have two or four wheels, but depending on how heavy it is and where you are planning to sell the dogs, you may want to consider a four wheel unit.

3. The bun warmer on a hot dog cart is an essential part of the hot dog cart. Several types of units exists. One is the drawer for buns. The other is the steamer on top. Both work well but the drawer allows more room on top of the unit.

4. The hot dog cart needs to have a hot dog turner for the meat to stay warm and not overcook. The dogs need to be able to look fresh and stay fresh.

5. A hot dog cart needs to have room on the front for a sign. Signs should be on the sides or other places to identify the cart immediately to potential customers. Also consider if you want an umbrella to keep cool

6. Does the hot dog cart have a space for other items to sell (soda pop, chips, etc)? Does it have a space to place condiments, napkins and utensils? This space needs to be in the front or side of the cart and convenient to the customer.

7. A price of a used hot dog cart should be about half of the new value if less than a year old and three fourths of value if a year or older.

[ryanharry]

on 10/30/2009 Thanks for sharing your tips.