Van graphics: All you need to know

If you own or drive a company van, from a Smart car to a fleet of vans and have found yourself here, consider it a great sign. Nothing is worse than providing a great service or product, and nobody knowing about you. Van sign writing is a timeless, cost-effective practice that has boosted revenue for years.

Going beyond your boundaries can be great in many aspects, especially in terms of promotion. Whilst static advertising methods such as posters and pavement signs can be highly effective, there are plenty of benefits towards displaying your print on your van and touring it outside of your local area.

So, what exactly is van signwriting, what are the benefits and what options can be explored? Let us walk you through all you need to know.

What is van signwriting?

Van sign writing is the process of applying a vinyl graphic onto the external surface of your car or van. The graphics can fit a range of preferences or requests, from minimalistic door signs to wrapping your entire van. Additionally, for those interested in the creative aspect of this field, a surface pattern design job could be a great opportunity to explore innovative designs and apply them in practical, impactful ways. Sign writing is most commonly used and easy to learn skill for effective advertisement purposes and is a sleek and stylish way to transform and brand your company van.

What are the benefits of van signwriting?

• Capture the attention

Having advertising that stands out from the crowd is the dream, right? With van graphics, your wish can be granted. Capture the attention whilst on the road with your bespoke brand promotion displayed on your van. From entire wraps to single door displays, you’ll find your van becoming engaging to everyone you pass.

• Expand your brand awareness

No matter if you have a single Smart car or a whole fleet or vans, van branding can be effective for all. Whilst touring your branding around your local area can be effective in increase your brand awareness, have you considered breaking the boundaries? Taking your branding with you can ensure you reach a wider audience, gaining customers from areas you haven’t previously explored.

• Preserve your pennies

Unlike the recurring costs that often accompany static advertising spots such as billboards, your van provides you the space to advertise, for less. With the freedom to advertise with as much or as little print promotion as you wish, you can control your expenditure whilst still being able to tour your marketing materials anywhere… or as far as your fuel will take you at least! Sign writing can be as low as £150 for a great return on your investment. If you keep the same van for 3 years, this works out to roughly £1 a week!

• Increase reliability

Nothing reassures new or nervous clients in the way that a branded van can. Increase the confidence your customers have in your services with simple, yet effective van graphics. Whether you place your brand name on your rear windscreen, or place your logo on the front door panels, allow our customers to feel at ease when a new van arrives at their property.

• Protect your van

Branding your van can add elements of protection in more ways than one. From preventing theft due to the van being extremely identifiable, to stopping damage from affecting your van itself. The vinyl graphics will be able to take the brunt of any scratching and can be easily removed without a trace for a graphic upgrade, or when the time comes for the van to be sold.

Are there any downsides to van signwriting?

The downsides to van signwriting are minimal, but as with anything, there are some pointers it is worth mentioning.

Theft – on some occasions there have been cases where sign-written vans get broken into, as thieves presume there are expense tools or goods within the van itself.

Insurance – Some insurers deem vans with advertising as a bigger target for thieves. They then use this as an excuse to bump up premiums in some instances. Be sure to shop around to find the best insurance policies as not all companies will try and increase their prices based on this. There are still many insurers that will give incredibly competitive cover so do not let this hinder your business decisions.

What should be included in bespoke van signwriting?

Whilst you are of course able to explore your own creative ideas when deciding what to display on your van, there are a few fundamentals of which are crucial to include when conveying your message across to your audience. These include…

Prioritise your services. You may not be a household name (yet). Remember that Mr Smith & Sons could be anything from a removal service to a plumber, so specificity is key. Let your customers know what you offer.

Make it clear. A large portion of people who see your van graphics will be on the move, so the message must jump out. Bold colours, spacious lettering and wording can really help someone acknowledge your business whilst driving or walking.

What options are there?

Long gone are the days of having to spray the entire van to create a great graphic. There are varied techniques on offer, each at different price points. Here are some of the methods available, alongside rough guide prices:

• Magnetic van signs: Guide price £150+

A magnetic sign is the easiest to put on and remove. Ideal for companies that tend to have a turnover of van regularly. Be sure to get high-grade magnetism for the strips that are capable of handling high motorway speeds as not having this can be dangerous.

• Cut vinyl graphics: Guide price £350 + VAT (full coverage)

The adhesive used for the vinyl means that the van will remain intact underneath, so this is a great method for full coverage. Smaller coverage may set you back only £70 for basic information too.

• Vinyl wrap: Guide price up to £3,000+

The most premium option, popular with business-owners looking to hold onto their vans long term. Vinyl wrap can be applied partially or full coverage delivering the most premium look. Heightened effectiveness on larger vans.

Van sign writing is a cost-effective method to help bring your business the attention it deserves. If you are a small business owner looking for methods to drive more customers to your doorstep, then sign writing could be for you. Check out potential options and pricing for your company van here. At Printingprogress, print promotion is our expertise and passion. We are on hand to advise and assist with the design and fitting of your bespoke van graphics, so get in touch! Give us a call on 020 8290 1010 or email info@printingprogress.co.uk today.