If you’re planning an event in Texas and considering a mobile bar, you’ll quickly run into two models: dry hire and wet hire (also called full-service). Understanding the difference will save you money, confusion, and — most importantly — potential TABC violations.
What Is Dry Hire?
Dry hire means you rent the bar trailer, the bartender, and all the equipment — but you supply the alcohol. You purchase your beverages from any Texas-licensed retailer (Spec’s, Total Wine, H-E-B, etc.) and have them on-site before the event. The bartender serves what you’ve purchased.
What Is Wet Hire (Full-Service)?
Full-service means the bar company supplies both the equipment and the alcohol. They handle purchasing, licensing, and pouring. It’s more convenient — and significantly more expensive. Full-service bars in Texas typically mark up alcohol 200–400% over retail.
Which Is Legal in Texas?
Both are legal in Texas — but each has specific requirements under TABC (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission).
- Dry hire: The event host (you) is responsible for ensuring alcohol is consumed responsibly. The bartender must still be TABC-certified. No additional venue license is required as long as you’re serving your own purchased alcohol at a private event.
- Wet hire: The bar company must hold a TABC Caterer’s Permit or be working under the venue’s TABC license. This adds cost and complexity.
How Much Does Each Cost?
In the DFW market:
- Dry hire mobile bar trailer: Typically $800–$3,500 depending on hours and guest count (you pay for alcohol separately at retail).
- Full-service mobile bar: Typically $2,500–$6,000+ including alcohol — but that alcohol costs them wholesale and you’re paying a significant markup.
For a 100-person wedding with a 5-hour bar, the dry hire model often saves $1,500–$3,000+ versus full-service.
When Should You Choose Dry Hire?
- You want control over your wine, beer, and spirit labels
- Your venue allows client-supplied alcohol (most North Texas event venues do)
- You’re cost-conscious and willing to make a Spec’s run
- You want a straightforward, predictable price
When Does Full-Service Make More Sense?
- Your venue has strict TABC catering requirements
- You want zero logistics responsibility
- You’re running a public or ticketed event (different licensing rules apply)
On Tap Trailers Is a Dry Hire Service
We operate exclusively on the dry hire model. You bring the bottles — we bring the trailer, the bartender, the ice, the glassware, and every detail. For events across Frisco, McKinney, Plano, Prosper, Denton, and Dallas, it’s the most affordable way to have a proper bar at your event.