Our customers have often asked if we could offer a complete Belgian Liège waffle, hot and fresh straight from the waffle maker. Until now, that hasn’t been possible—but with our new food trailer, we’re excited to finally make it happen. We are SO excited about this next chapter!
This blog will primarily focus on our journey through the food trailer process—from permits to planning and everything in between.
Business Licenses and City Permits
We already hold a business license and the required permits since we manufacture Wafel-Bitte Belgian Liège waffle mix, available in both original and gluten-free options. This existing foundation has made the process much smoother.
Commercial / Commissary Kitchen
A food trailer business requires the use of a commercial or commissary kitchen, which we already have in place.
Commercial kitchen recommendation: @figbrew
Fig Brew Map Kitchen
3104 Leeman Ferry
Huntsville, AL 35801
(256) 617-3105
https://figbrew.com/
Food Trailer @truvietrailers
I wanted to start small, so I searched for a trailer that fit my current needs and towing limits. My truck can pull 3,500 lbs with a 400 lb tongue weight limit, so a compact trailer was essential.
I found the perfect fit at Truvie Trailers (https://truvietrailers.com/). After meeting the incredibly kind owners, Tracy and Nick, along with my son (an electrical engineer), I placed a deposit on the trailer. Nick is currently adding the refrigerator and other necessary components to get my waffle wagon ready.
I’m purchasing the A-12 model, which requires a 2-inch ball and a 7-pin connector for my truck.
TruViet Trailers
(615) 554-7580
sales@truvietrailers.com
www.truvietrailers.com
Food Trailer Application
I contacted the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) to request the documentation required to operate a food trailer:
https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/madison/environmental-services.html
Today, I completed the following ADPH paperwork provided via email:
-
Plan Review Application
-
Review of ADPH Requirements for Mobile Food Units
-
Mobile Food Unit Plan Review Application and Plan Review (Category 3, I believe)
-
Mobile Food Unit Plan Review Worksheet
-
Commissary Usage Agreement
I’ve emailed ADPH to confirm whether the documents can be submitted in person along with the $100 fee. This step is currently pending.
Trailer Wrap (Logo & Branding) @qualitycarcare
I reached out to several companies that specialize in vehicle and trailer wraps and decided to go with Quality Car Care, a women veteran-owned business. They offer excellent customer service and competitive pricing.
Quality Car Care
https://www.qualitycarcare.autos/
(256) 489-6707
This step is also pending—but we can’t wait to see the finished look!