Charlotte's food truck catering scene thrives as a go-to option for events ranging from corporate lunches in Uptown to weddings in South End and backyard parties in Ballantyne. Mobile vendors deliver fresh, customizable meals with an interactive flair that traditional caterers often can't match; all at a fraction of the cost of plated dinners. In late 2025 and into 2026, expect moderate price increases (3–6% annually) driven by rising food, labor, and fuel costs, though. Charlotte remains more affordable than many major cities.
 

This guide breaks down current pricing models, realistic cost ranges based on recent vendor quotes and industry data from platforms like Roaming Hunger and Best Food Trucks, key factors that drive the final bill, hidden fees, and a practical booking process.

Most Charlotte food trucks offer two main structures for private catering:
 

1. Per-Person Pricing: A fixed rate per guest, typically including an entrée, sides, and non-alcoholic beverages. Service lasts 2–3 hours with unlimited returns to the truck. Ideal for events with a confirmed headcount (e.g., weddings, seated corporate events).
 

2. Guaranteed Minimum (Event Minimum): You commit to a minimum revenue amount. If guest spending falls short, you cover the difference. Common for open-house or drop-in events where attendance is uncertain. Protects the truck on high-demand dates.
 

Many vendors offer hybrids or negotiate based on your needs; always ask.

Event Minimums (common for smaller or variable-attendance events):
 

- Weekday (Mon–Thu): $1,200–$2,000
 - Weeknight evenings: $1,500–$2,500
 - Weekends (Fri–Sun): $2,000–$4,000+ (higher in peak spring/fall wedding season)
 

Guest Count: Per-person scales directly; events >150 often get volume discounts. Under 50 guests usually hit the minimum.
 

Day & Season: Tuesdays in winter are cheapest; Saturday evenings in April/May/October are priciest.
 

Menu Complexity: Basic chicken/veggie options stay low; seafood, wagyu, or extensive vegan/gluten-free add 20–40%.
 

Service Time: Standard 2–3 hours; overtime runs $150–$350/hour.
 

Location/Travel: Most are included within the I-485/I-277 loop. Beyond (Lake Norman, Gastonia): $2–$5/mile + possible parking fees.
 

Customizations: Multiple trucks for variety, branded packaging, or late-night snacks increase costs.
 

Always request an all-inclusive quote:
 

- Administrative/Service Fee: 18–22% (covers insurance, booking, operations—not a tip)
 

- Gratuity: Often optional 15–20%; some include it
 

- Sales Tax: 7.25% in Mecklenburg County (4.75% state + 2.5% local/transit as of Nov 2025)
 

- Travel/Parking: $50–$300 if outside base radius
 

- Generator Rental (off-grid venues): $150–$400
 

- Permits (public parks or certain venues): $50–$250 (your responsibility)
 

- Extra Staffing/Setup: $200–$500 for high-volume events

- Prepare Event Details: Date/time, location, estimated headcount (±10%), dietary needs, preferred cuisine, and budget range.
 

- Contact 3–5 Trucks. Ask specifically:
= Per-person vs. minimum structure?
= All-inclusive quote (taxes, fees, travel, gratuity)?
= Overtime rates and service window?
= Cancellation/weather policy?
= Proof of insurance and permits?
 

- Compare Itemized Proposals. Look beyond price—check reviews from similar-sized events.
 

- Book Early Popular trucks book 6–12 months ahead for prime weekend dates.

Food trucks offer better value than traditional catering ($70–$150+/person for plated weddings), lower waste, built-in entertainment, and support for local owners. In 2025–2026, trends lean toward sustainable packaging, plant-based options, and app-based ordering to shorten lines.
 

Charlotte’s food truck catering delivers excitement and flavor without the premium price tag of sit-down service. With per-person rates starting under $20 and flexible minimums, most events land in the $2,000–$4,000 range for 100 guests; far less than comparable traditional catering