ProfitDrawer's vending machine business guide gives an example budget of about $2,200 to $9,400 for one or two machines. The machine itself is the largest cost, from about $1,200 for a used snack machine to $6,000 for a new combo machine, plus a card reader ($200 to $600), first stock ($200 to $600), insurance and permits. Food and drink machines can need a health or machine permit in some places. These are example ranges; your costs will differ.
Example budget, one to two machines (your costs will differ):
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Machine (used snack, or new combo) | $1,200 | $6,000 |
| Card reader and setup | $200 | $600 |
| First stock | $200 | $600 |
| Delivery or moving the machine | $100 | $500 |
| Registration, license, permits | $100 | $500 |
| Insurance (first months) | $150 | $500 |
| Bins, locks, cleaning supplies | $50 | $200 |
| Spare cash for repairs | $200 | $500 |
| Total | $2,200 | $9,400 |
Location matters more than the machine. In the guide's example, a snack machine selling 300 items a month at $2.00 with a product cost of $0.85 makes $345 gross profit; after a 10% location commission ($60), card fees and restocking trips, about $250 might be left. A quiet spot can barely cover its trips.
Prove one location before buying a second machine, and run your own numbers in the free startup cost calculator.
Source: How to Start a Vending Machine Business (ProfitDrawer guide) · Updated
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General information, not tax, legal or financial advice. Check the rules for your state and your situation.