In recent years, the European food service industry has witnessed a rapid rise in mobile catering businesses. Food trucks are no longer just trendy—they've become a cornerstone of urban dining culture, serving everything from gourmet coffee to international street food. This booming demand has led many entrepreneurs to look overseas, particularly to China, for high-quality and affordable food truck solutions.
However, importing a food truck into the European Union (EU) is not as simple as shipping a container. Strict customs rules, environmental protection policies, and safety regulations must be followed. For European buyers, being aware of these requirements is crucial to avoid costly mistakes and delays.
EU customs authorities play a dual role: ensuring fair trade and protecting the environment. When importing vehicles, machinery, or food trucks, customs inspections verify compliance with both technical standards and climate regulations.
Recently, the EU strengthened its regulations concerning products that may contain fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-Gases). These rules apply to many electromechanical products, including:
Construction vehicles such as loaders and excavators
Refrigeration equipment like fridges and freezers
Certain vehicle types used in commercial operations
Fluorinated gases (F-Gases) are synthetic greenhouse gases used in cooling and refrigeration systems. Since food trucks often include built-in refrigerators or freezers, they may fall under this category. EU law requires that importers register and provide an F-GAS registration number before customs clearance.
Motorized vehicles with air conditioning or refrigeration units
Food trucks equipped with fridges or freezers
Heavy-duty machinery shipped with cooling systems
If the F-GAS registration is not completed before arrival, EU customs can hold the entire container, resulting in high fines, storage costs, and delayed delivery.
If your food truck is equipped with refrigeration or cooling units, F-GAS registration is mandatory. Non-motorized trailers without cooling devices may not require it, but confirmation with local customs is strongly recommended.
The responsibility typically lies with the importer or consignee in Europe. The seller (exporter in China) cannot complete the registration on behalf of the buyer.
Visit the EU F-GAS portal
Create an account as an importer/consignee
Fill out product category and shipment details
Obtain the registration number and share it with customs and your supplier
Register before shipment to avoid detention at the port
Consult with your local customs or a clearance agent
Keep digital and printed copies of your registration certificate
Some buyers assume that food trucks classified as trailers are exempt. However, if they contain cooling units, they may still be subject to F-GAS rules.
Unlike construction machinery, food trucks are often designed as non-motorized towable trailers. This distinction can influence whether F-GAS applies.
Since interpretations vary between EU member states, buyers should always confirm requirements with their local customs office or customs broker before shipment.
Food trucks can be shipped in several ways:
Container shipping: Most common, safe, and cost-effective
Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off): Suitable for motorized food trucks
Bulk shipping: For oversized models, though less common
Documents usually required include:
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Bill of lading
F-GAS registration (if applicable)
CE certification (if required for electrical parts)
Complete paperwork early
Ensure compliance with both EU and local regulations
Work with an experienced logistics partner
In addition to the product price, buyers should budget for:
Import duties
VAT (Value Added Tax)
Port handling charges
Customs inspection fees
ZZKNOWN is a professional food truck manufacturer in China, specializing in exporting high-quality, customizable food trucks to Europe and beyond.
We prioritize compliance with EU standards, including CE certifications, safety checks, and advising buyers on customs regulations such as F-GAS.
Our team provides guidance documents, shipping assistance, and reminders for F-GAS registration. While we cannot register on your behalf, we ensure you have all the necessary information.
Many of our European clients have successfully imported ZZKNOWN food trucks with smooth customs clearance, launching profitable food businesses across EU cities.
High-Quality Manufacturing Standards: Durable materials, hygienic design, and safety-first engineering.
Customization Options: From coffee trucks to ice cream vans, tailored to European customer needs.
Professional Logistics Assistance: Coordinating with freight forwarders and advising on compliance.
Responsible Partnership Approach: We don't just sell trucks—we help you succeed in Europe.
Q1: Do all food trucks require F-GAS registration?
Not all. Only those with refrigeration or cooling systems fall under this rule.
Q2: What documents are needed for EU customs clearance?
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and if applicable, F-GAS registration certificate.
Q3: How long does the registration process take?
It usually takes a few days if all documents are correctly submitted.
Q4: Can ZZKNOWN help with customs issues?
Yes, while we cannot register for you, we provide full guidance and connect you with trusted customs brokers.
Q5: What's the difference between food trucks and trailers under EU law?
Non-motorized trailers without refrigeration may not require registration, but motorized or refrigerated ones do.
Q6: How can European buyers minimize import risks?
By registering early, consulting local customs, and working with experienced suppliers like ZZKNOWN.
Importing food trucks into Europe requires careful attention to customs rules, F-GAS registration, and logistics planning. With ZZKNOWN, you're not just buying a vehicle—you're partnering with a responsible manufacturer that understands European compliance.
By choosing ZZKNOWN, you ensure high-quality, customizable food trucks delivered safely and legally to your doorstep. For European entrepreneurs, this is the smart way to start or expand a food business.
Ready to launch your food truck business in Europe? Contact ZZKNOWN today and let's make your dream mobile restaurant a reality.
