Food Truck Prices, In Malaysia, starting a small-scale truck typically costs about RM15,000–RM20,000, according to SME Corp. and other local sources. That estimate covers essentials like vehicle conversion, basic kitchen setup, and initial administrative expenses.
A rough breakdown of those prices includes:
- Registration and permits (SSM, bank account, permits): RM1,300
- Driver’s license & health training: RM600–RM700
- Working capital: RM3,000
- Vehicle deposit/installment: ~RM5,500 deposit, RM600/month
- Kitchen equipment: RM4,000
- Raw materials: RM4,000–RM8,000/month
Those components form the bulk of the prices for launching in Malaysia.
Food Truck Prices Vehicle and Equipment Costs
Many operators convert vans, buses, or even motorbikes into food trucks. As per local advice, repayments or lease costs may run about RM600/month, plus a 10% deposit (e.g., RM5,500 for a RM55,000 vehicle). To outfit kitchens and install gas, freezers, and other essentials, expect another RM4,000–RM8,000 initially. Those make up a big part of the overall food truck prices.
Licensing and Operating Fees
Under local regulations, mandatory costs include:
- Business registration: RM100
- Bank registration: RM200
- Good Driving License (GDL): RM500
- Local council permit: RM500/year
On top of that, one-time costs like typhoid shots and food-handling courses cost about RM100–RM200.
Recurring Monthly Expenses
Running a food truck in Malaysia brings ongoing expenses such as:
- Raw materials: RM4,000–RM8,000
- Vehicle maintenance & fuel: RM300–RM500
- Monthly vehicle installments: RM600
- Commissary/incidental costs: variable, but generically included above
These follow-through costs make up the bulk of the ongoing prices once you’re up and running.
Renting vs. Buying
If purchase costs are steep, renting offers a lower-cost alternative. Food truck rental prices in Malaysia start at only RM1,300/month for a basic setup and go up to RM2,500 for larger, fully-equipped trucks. Typical packages include part- or fully-fitted kitchens. This route avoids the initial deposit and monthly installments attached to ownership. However, you’ll still incur fuel, permits, and event license costs.
Comparing Price Ranges in Malaysia
Here’s a quick table comparing the key prices in Malaysia:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (RM) |
|---|---|
| Starting small-scale food truck | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Vehicle deposit/installment | ~5,500 deposit + 600/month |
| Kitchen equipment | 4,000 – 8,000 |
| Licensing and registration | ~1,300 one-time |
| Raw materials (monthly) | 4,000 – 8,000 |
| Maintenance & fuel (monthly) | 300 – 500 |
| Rental (basic truck) | 1,300 – 2,500/month |
This table shows the typical food truck prices involved in setting up and maintaining operations in Malaysia.
Tips to Manage and Reduce Costs
Reducing food truck prices is possible with smart planning:
- Swap ownership for rental if the initial capital is limited.
- Use secondhand kitchen equipment to cut setup expenses.
- Buy raw materials from wholesale markets (pasar borong) to save on ingredient costs.
- Start small, test locations and menus before expanding.
Is It Worth Starting a Food Truck in Malaysia?
Yes—if you manage food truck prices wisely. With only RM15,000–RM20,000 to start, it’s one of the most accessible food business models. It lets entrepreneurs test out business ideas without the heavy investment needed for a storefront. Renting is even more affordable, with monthly fees under RM2,000.
Summary
- Startup: RM15,000–RM20,000 for a small-scale food truck in Malaysia.
- Monthly ownership costs: ~RM9,000 (equipment repayment, raw materials, permits).
- Rental option: RM1,300–2,500/month reduces startup barriers.
With this breakdown of food truck prices, you have clarity to plan your budget, compare buying vs. renting, and set your business up for success in Malaysia.
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