Below you’ll find information to help you begin the journey of owning and managing your own Fashion Truck. Remember never give up on your day dream! It’s a lot of work, but the pay off is sweet.For additional tips on How to Start a Fashion Trucks sign up for the Find a Fashion Truck newsletter. We hope this How to Start a Fashion Truck Guide is useful.
Podcast
Listen to the Can I Park Here? podcast on iTunes, Stitcher, or the website to learn from experienced and new fashion truck owners.
Find a Fashion Truck Newsletter
Organizations + Groups
- Let’s Talk About Fashion Trucks! Facebook Group
- American Mobile Retail Association (AMRA)
- DMVROW (DC, Maryland and Virginia)
Finding a Truck + Camper + Trailer
There are several vehicle options and you have to keep in mind such as type, size, and maintenance so be sure consult with a mechanic. Below is by no means an exhaustive list, but it will get you started.
Types to consider:
- Airstream
- Bus
- Box truck
- Trailer
- Step Van
Other Options:
- Have a manufacturer build your unit
- Network with other truck owners
Where to purchase:
- Corporate Fleet (UPS, Fed-Ex, UPS, Bread Co)
This is one of the safer options since they are routinely maintained and they may provide documentation. - Craigslist
- Ebay
- RV Dealers
- Local Newspapers
- Ryder
- Truck Paper
Options for your key word search:
- Used Food Trucks
- Old Ambulance Trucks
- Used Library Trucks
- Used UPS Truck
Permit and Licenses for Fashion Trucks
Each county, city and state is different. We recommend reaching out to other successful fashion truck owners in your area, checking with the Small Business Administration, and going to your local taxation office. Go to your local DMV for more information about driving licenses. For more detailed information we recommend an article from The Fashion Mobile.
Finding Events and Places to Operate
Once you find out where you can operate in your state start looking for opportunities.
- Network with other Fashion Truck owners
- Collaborate with brick and mortar stores so you can utilize their parking lots
- Festivals
- Craft Fairs
- Markets
[bctt tweet=”Learn how to start your own Fashion Truck.”]
Branding
You need a logo to represent your new company. You also need to make sure that you incorprate the look, feel, and colors onto our mobile boutique and you social presence. I recommend hiring a prefessional designer. Have others look at their portfolio before you go with them. Also, ask for references. Here are some other affordable options:
Don’t forget about business cards. Here are a few printers.
Setting Up a Website
Best option is to have a web designer create you site; however, if you’re on a budget below are options that will allow you to do it on your own.
If you’re daring you can set up your own site using WordPress or Joomla. This will require purchase a domain name and web hosting. Also you’ll have the chose between free and premium themes. Be patient, it’s a lot of work when done right. Choosing the right Point of Sale (POS) is crucial to running a seamless business.
Static Website (Just make sure you get a custom URL)
- WordPress.com (you add eCommerce with woocommerce plugin)
- Wix
- Weebly
- Moonfruit
Collecting Payments
When you’re out on the road you need to have reliable payment options. These choices will work great on your phone and tablet. Choose the one that works best for your situation. Have a look at our article on choosing the best POS system for your truck and online store.
Managing Social Media
Juggling five+ different social media websites can be exhausting, especially when you’re also trying to manage inventory and your schedule. Make it a little easier with these tools.
Collecting Emails
It’s important to keep in touch with your customers. Make sure you collect their vitals. You can collect it on their website or while you’re checking them out.
Document and Media Management
Keeping track of multiple documents, excel sheets, and media can be difficult. Leverage the following systems to keep you organized. They also allow you to easily share infomration with others.
