Ultimate Guide on How to Import a Trailer into the US & Get Licenses

If you're looking to buy an affordable food trailer, partnering with Chinese manufacturers could be a smart move. The food trailer industry in China has been growing at a pace comparable to that of the United States, but with a focus on production. Many American trailer companies collaborate with Chinese food trailer manufacturers not only due to their well-established manufacturing base and supply chain, but also because of their competitive pricing. Can you believe that when you buy a food trailer from China, the cost, including shipping, can be less than half of what you’d pay locally for the same model? It’s almost unbelievable!

The idea of importing a food trailer from China may seem daunting, especially given the less-than-encouraging stories and experiences shared on various online forums. Tales of subpar quality control, damage during shipping, complex customs clearance processes and struggles to meet U.S. standards can be disheartening. Besides, importing and registering a food trailer in the United States and applying for a license can be overwhelming, especially for novices who have never dealt with food trailers before. However, things aren't as scary as they seem. So, don't let those horror stories hold you back. If you're a novice, just ensure you're well-informed and find a professional and responsible food trailer manufacturer.

ETO DEVICE is a leading Chinese food trailer manufacturer that specializes in producing custom food trailers that comply with applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards and health codes in the United States. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of importing a food trailer from overseas, registering it, and obtaining the necessary permits. You absolutely cannot miss this if you're new to food trailers and thinking of starting your own.
 
 
 
 

Don't let the low price distract you from the importance of compliance. Before confirming your order for a trailer from China, it's crucial to ensure that it complies with all applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS). Otherwise, you may find yourself facing unexpected costs to bring it up to code or risk having it confiscated due to noncompliance.

To avoid becoming a victim of buying a trailer that does not meet Federal regulations, always choose companies and manufacturers listed on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Only they are qualified to produce trailers that meet Federal safety standards. To find these companies, you can visit NHTSA's website and check if the manufacturer is listed.
 

ETO Device is one of the many listed manufacturers in NHTSA’s Manufacturer’s Information Database. To find us:   1. Go to the NHTSA Manufacturer's Information Database: https://vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov/mid/ 2. Enter 23515 in the “Manufacturer ID”. 3. Click on "Search" 4. Click on the Manufacturer Name "HENAN CREATE MACHINERY CO., LTD." to view more information about us.

NHTSA Manufacturer's Information Database

 

WARNING!!! If you buy a food trailer that does not meet U.S. safety standards, you may encounter the following issues:   Difficulty clearing customs, potentially delaying your delivery. Higher than normal import bonds that you have to pay. Potentially several thousand dollars spent on swapping out parts to comply with regulation. Increasing storage fees when you can't bring your food trailer home. To avoid wasting more money and time on a mediocre food trailer that can not be registered in the U.S., it's best to remove unqualified trailer manufacturers from your list.

 
 

Most food trailer manufacturers in China offer international shipping services, and we are no exception.
 
During the consultation stage, we will discuss delivery-related matters with the customer and provide appropriate delivery plans and detailed quotations. We have established cooperative relationships with experienced international shipping companies and local carriers in the U.S., who will handle the delivery to the designated entry port or location (it can be your home). After shipped, we will closely monitor the logistics, notify you of the ship's position, and provide you with the required documents for customs clearance.
 
 
 

 
Please contact the carrier or shipper to obtain the arrival date of your trailer at the port and provide advance notice to Customs in order that you can make arrangements to process it through Customs and Border Protection (CBP). They will guide you on the next steps.
  
 
 

 

To obtain CBP clearance, the following documents are required for importing a food trailer from China to the United States:   Bill of Sale Bill of lading, issued by the shipper Any relevant documents pertaining to the trailer DOT Form HS-7 CBP Form 7501 (Tap the pics to get the full forms)

DOT Form HS-7

CBP Form 7501

 
All vehicles imported to the United States are subject to customs duties, the amount of which is based on the price paid for your food trailer. Generally speaking, customs duty rates are as follows:
 

 
 
 

 
How to register a trailer in the U.S.?
 

Trailer registration laws and requirements vary from state to state, so it's recommended to visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in advance and discuss the matter with an agent. To avoid waiting in line, make an appointment with the DMV in advance.
 
 
 

 
A registered trailer can be driven on the roads in the United States, but it cannot legally sell food or beverages until it obtains the following permits:
 

 Business License:
Just like any other restaurant, a food trailer needs a business license to prove that your business operation is a lawful one and apply for the mobile food facility permit.

 Health Permit:
Issued by your local health department, this document certifies that your food trailer has passed health inspections. Please note that the health inspector will require specific kitchen equipment, such as 3 compartment water sinks, equipment with NSF marks, and concession windows.

 Food Handler's Permit:
If you plan to handle, prepare, and cook food in a food trailer, at least one employee must possess a valid permit during operational hours.

 Driver's License:
In most states across the US, a standard driver's license suffices for legally towing a food trailer within state lines. However, some states may require the application of a special driver's license for certain larger food trailers.

 Mobile Food Facility Permit:
To operate a food trailer in California or Pennsylvania, you need to obtain a valid permit from the county where your business is located. To get this permit, you need to submit a commissary verification form, complete an application, pay an annual permit fee, and pass an inspection.

 Fire Certificates:
In California and other states, mobile food facilities that use oil for cooking inside the trailer must meet local fire codes. A commercial kitchen Type 1 hood, UL300 extinguishing system, and a class K fire extinguisher are required to make food trailers compliant.

 Commissary Letter of Agreement:
A commissary letter of agreement is an agreement between yourself and a commissary that confirms your right to access its facilities and services. These services include food processing, cooking, storage of supplies, replacing freshwater, and handling wastewater. The agreement must be completed and submitted for licensing.

 Special Event Permit:
The special event application must be submitted to the local government in advance to organize a specific temporary event. You need to apply for this permit if:

 

  
 

 
 

As one of the largest food trailer exporters in the United0 States, ETO DEVICE knows how it all works—from food trailer design and build to customs clearance and delivery! Our team has already delivered over 4,000 projects worldwide, with 60% of them in the United States. With a wealth of professional knowledge and years of experience in the field, we specialize in mobile food trailer production, ocean shipping, customs clearance, delivery, and registration. Each year, we partner with clients across the United States to build unique trailers and assist in the process of exporting, clearance, and applying for licenses and permits. If you're considering importing a food trailer from China but don’t know how to start, ETO is the right choice! We'll handle everything to build a food trailer that meets all your expectations, is registerable, and passes health inspections.

   
 

  Do ETO Food Trailers meet the codes and standards in the U.S.?
 

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ETO has the capability to produce high-quality, safe food trailers that comply with FMVSS in the U.S. These trailers are built to code from the ground up, with every aspect meeting code requirements and passing inspections, from the trailer's structure to its wiring, plumbing, and windows.
 
 
  Where Can I Find the VIN of My Trailer?
 

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The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for your food trailer is located on the trailer plate. This plate is affixed to a visible part of the trailer's frame and provides comprehensive information about your trailer, including its unique VIN. To decode your VIN and learn more about your trailer's manufacturer, visit the NHTSA VIN decoder at https://vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov/decoder/.
 
 
  Will You Provide All the Necessary Documents for Food Trailer Registration and Business Permit Application?
 

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Yes. All required documents will be provided to expedite your application process. Our sales representatives will keep in close contact with you and provide the necessary assistance and support to ensure a smooth process. Many US customers who have purchased from ETO DEVICE have already registered their mobile food trailers and are now on the road. And we believe you will be one of them. It's really that simple.
 
 
  Are Your Food Trailers Applicable in Other Countries?
 

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Yes. ETO DEVICE is a food trailer manufacturer that serves globally. We build USA/AU/EU/UK-compliant food trailers and custom vehicles according to specific specifications. Due to the significant differences in codes and standards between countries, we need your cooperation to ensure that the trailer is compliant and can be registered in your city.

Go to this page to check out our custom food trailer projects for clients from all over the world.
 

We have exported to the following countries and regions:
 

United States Canada Australia New Zealand United Kingdom Ireland Germany

France Philippines Malaysia Thailand Netherlands Italy United Arab Emirates

Switzerland France Spain Belgium Kazakhstan Reunion Island

Ghana Guam Guyana Bahamas Malta Seychelles Cyprus

Can't find your country here? We look forward to you being the first client who collaborates with us and help expand our business in your country.
 
 
  Do You Have After Sale Support?
 

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We have excellent after-sales support to ensure the best customer experience. This includes:
 

• One-year manufacturer warranty
• Dedicated technical support
• Installation, usage, and maintenance guidance
• Spare parts and equipment supply
• Customer relationship management
• Opportunities to get exclusive offers

If there are any quality issues caused by manufacturing defects within the warranty period, we will take full responsibility and provide immediate solutions, including compensation or replacement parts.