Vehicles as signs
For a contractor, a delivery business or a utility, the vehicles are on the road every day. Graphics turn them into signs. Fleet graphics range from cut vinyl lettering (a name, a phone number and a logo) to partial wraps covering part of each vehicle to full printed wraps. The right choice depends on budget, the vehicles and how long you'll keep them.
Printed film and laminate
Full-color fleet graphics are usually printed on white wrap film and then covered with a clear laminate. The laminate protects the print from sunlight, abrasion and washing, and its finish (gloss or matte) sets the look. Film and laminate should be made to work together; manufacturers usually specify matching combinations, and the warranty may depend on using them. Films for vehicle curves and recesses differ from films meant for flat box-truck sides. Ask the shop which film and laminate they'll use on which surfaces and why.
Partial or full
A partial wrap covers part of the vehicle, often the back and sides, and uses the vehicle's paint color as part of the design. It costs less and goes on faster. A full wrap covers everything and gives total design freedom. On box trucks and trailers, flat sides make large graphics relatively straightforward; vans with deep body lines and rivets take more time and skill.
Keeping a fleet consistent
Customers recognize a brand by consistency. If vehicles are wrapped at different times, color matching matters: printed colors vary with the printer, ink, film and settings. Ask the shop how they'll keep colors consistent across vehicles and over time, whether they keep your print files and settings, and how they handle different vehicle models.
Design, proofs and legal markings
Expect a proof for each vehicle model, showing exactly where graphics fall around doors, handles, windows and body lines. Check the proof carefully: phone numbers, web addresses and license or registration numbers that your trade or your state requires on vehicles. The shop prints what you approve.
Scheduling around work
A vehicle in the shop isn't earning money. Ask how long each vehicle will take, whether the shop can work in batches, and whether they can work evenings or weekends. Allow time for the vehicle to be cleaned before it arrives; heavy grime, road film and wax slow the prep.
Windows
Perforated window film lets graphics cover rear and side windows while the driver can still see out. Each state sets its own rules for what can cover vehicle windows, so ask the shop what's allowed for your vehicles.
Removal and resale
Leased vehicles must often be returned without graphics, and you may want to rebrand or sell vehicles later. Removal takes time and depends on the film, its age and the paint underneath; old, sun-baked film is harder to remove. Ask what removal involves and what the manufacturer says about removability.
Questions to ask
- Which film and laminate will you use, and what's the warranty?
- How will you keep colors consistent across the fleet?
- Can I see a proof for each vehicle model?
- How long will each vehicle be out of service?
- What does removal involve, and how will it affect the paint?