Why a Minimum Guarantee Matters When Booking a Food Truck
Booking a food truck for your event is an exciting way to provide great food and a unique experience for your guests. However, one of the most important factors in ensuring a smooth and successful event is setting a minimum guarantee. While some customers may hesitate at the idea of committing to a minimum sales amount, it actually benefits both the food truck and the client. Here’s why:
What is a Minimum Guarantee?
A minimum guarantee is an agreed-upon sales amount that ensures a food truck will earn at least a certain amount of revenue during an event. If sales fall short of this amount, the client covers the difference.
For example, if a food truck has a $1,000 minimum guarantee and only makes $800 in sales, the client would pay the remaining $200.
Why is a Minimum Guarantee Important?
1. Attracts the Best Food Trucks
The best and most popular food trucks are in high demand. If they have to choose between an event with a guaranteed payout and one with uncertain sales, they will always prioritize the event with a minimum guarantee. By offering a minimum, you give yourself access to higher-quality trucks that might otherwise decline your event.
2. Reduces No-Shows and Last-Minute Cancellations
When food trucks take on an event without a guaranteed minimum, they take a financial risk. If turnout is lower than expected or if guests don’t order as much as anticipated, the truck may not make enough to cover costs. This uncertainty can lead to last-minute cancellations, as trucks may opt for other opportunities that feel more financially secure. A minimum guarantee eliminates this risk, ensuring trucks show up and serve as planned.
3. Ensures Faster Service and Happier Guests
Food trucks operate best when they have a steady flow of customers. Without a guaranteed minimum, some trucks may bring a smaller staff or limit menu options to cut costs. With a minimum in place, food trucks can confidently staff their team properly, prep more food, and ensure fast, high-quality service, leading to a better experience for your guests.
4. Helps Cover Operational Costs for the Truck
Running a food truck isn’t cheap. From food costs and labor to fuel and permit fees, every event comes with expenses. A minimum guarantee protects the truck from losing money, making it easier for them to commit to your event.
5. Creates a Better Relationship Between Clients & Vendors
When both parties have a clear understanding of expectations, it leads to better communication and reliability. A minimum guarantee establishes a mutual agreement, making it more likely that both the client and the food truck have a positive experience.
How to Set a Fair Minimum Guarantee
The minimum guarantee should reflect the size and type of your event. Here are some general guidelines:
- Smaller events (50–100 guests): $750–$1,000
- Medium-sized events (100–250 guests): $1,500–$2,500
- Large events (250+ guests): $3,000+
If your event has a high guest count or is in a prime location, some trucks may waive or lower their minimums. However, in most cases, setting a fair guarantee ensures a stress-free experience for everyone involved.
Final Thoughts
A minimum guarantee isn’t just for the food truck’s benefit—it also ensures that you get better service, top-quality vendors, and a seamless experience. By providing a minimum, you attract reliable, high-quality food trucks that will show up, serve great food, and help make your event a success.
If you’re looking for top-tier food trucks for your event, EZ Food Trucks makes the process easy! We handle all the logistics, communication, and booking, ensuring you get the best trucks with a seamless experience from start to finish.
📅 Ready to book? Visit www.ezfoodtrucks.com to get started!