Van sign writing: pros, cons and cost.
How signwriting your van as a sole trader or small business can boost your exposure.
Pros, cons and costs of sign-writing your van
Van signwriting turns your vehicle into a mobile billboard, offering marketing exposure for a relatively low cost, an appealing strategy for sole traders and small business owners looking to widen their audience reach.
Pros of van signwriting
Van signwriting turns your vehicle into a powerful marketing tool, offering constant exposure for your business at a relatively low cost. With an initial investment as low as £350 for a year, it works out to less than £1 a day for advertising that moves with you and even promotes your business while parked. This mobile billboard effect ensures your brand catches the eyes of hundreds daily, far more than traditional stationary ads could hope to achieve.
A sign-written van doubles as a business card. When parked on a job site, it not only advertises your services to passers-by but also associates your work with your contact information directly, enhancing the chance of future engagement. This visibility is valuable in local communities, where seeing your van regularly can build familiarity and trust in your brand.
Quality signwriting also elevates your business's perceived professionalism and success. A smartly branded vehicle reflects well on your company, suggesting a level of care and attention to detail that customers can expect from your services. In the crowded marketplace of sole traders and small businesses, standing out with a polished, professional image can significantly impact your ability to attract new customers and retain existing ones.
Cons of van signwriting
While van signwriting has its advantages, it also comes with considerations that might give some business owners pause. One concern is security; a sign-written van not only makes your vehicle more recognisable, potentially deterring theft, but it also signals what might be inside. This can be particularly problematic for businesses like tradespeople, who often carry expensive tools and equipment. The visibility of the van's purpose could attract break-ins, especially if the vehicle is parked in less secure areas overnight.
Another aspect to consider is the impact on your business's reputation. When your van carries your business name and contact details, every action of the driver reflects directly on your company. Poor driving behaviour, such as aggressive driving or parking violations, can negatively affect your business. For larger businesses with a fleet of vehicles, this means placing a significant amount of trust in your drivers at all times.
The decision to signwrite your van should take into account the long-term commitment it represents. Changing your business branding or contact details would mean updating the signage on your van, which could incur additional costs. Additionally, while quality signwriting can enhance your vehicle's appearance and potentially its resale value, poorly executed or worn-out signage might have the opposite effect, detracting from the professional image you wish to have.
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Costs of van signwriting
Investing in van signwriting is an effective way to promote your business, but understanding the costs involved is crucial for budgeting and decision-making. The price of signwriting your van varies based on the type of signage, complexity of the design, and coverage area. Here's a breakdown of the main options and what you might expect to pay:
Cut vinyl graphics
This method uses adhesive vinyl applied in a stencil design, preserving the paint beneath. It's a durable and cost-effective option, with prices starting around £100 for a small, basic design. More complex designs or larger coverage can increase the cost to about £350. This option is popular for its flexibility and ease of updating or removing designs without damaging the vehicle.
Vinyl wrap
Vinyl wrapping involves covering part or all of your van with a printed vinyl sheet, allowing for vibrant, full-colour designs that make your vehicle stand out. The cost can vary significantly, with a partial wrap on a small van starting at around £1,500, while a full wrap on a larger van could reach £2,500. This method offers a high-impact visual presence but requires a larger upfront investment.
Magnetic signs
For those seeking a more temporary or interchangeable option, magnetic signs are ideal. They are perfect for rental vans, shared vehicles, or situations where branding needs to be removable. Costs for standard magnetic signs range from £200 to £300. It's important to invest in high-quality magnets that will stay secure at high speeds and withstand the elements.
What else should I consider?
Deciding to signwrite your van is a big step toward boosting your business's visibility, but there are additional factors to weigh before moving forward. Your van will essentially become a mobile billboard, so the advertisement it carries must reflect well on your company. It's not just about putting your name out there; your signage should communicate what your business offers and how potential customers can reach you.
Moreover, the quality of the signwriting should not be overlooked. It's worth taking the time to research. Reading reviews and examining their portfolio can give you confidence in their ability to deliver high-quality work that will represent your business well.
Insurance implications are another important consideration. Having your van sign written can affect your insurance premiums, as it changes the risk profile of your vehicle. While it might not directly increase your costs, certain designs could influence your insurer's view of risk. For example, advertising expensive equipment might be seen as an increased theft risk, potentially impacting your premium. On the other hand, signage that promotes safe driving or requests feedback on driving standards can convey a responsible image, possibly affecting your insurance quotes differently.
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Frequently asked questions about van sign writing
Having a sign written van means your business's name and contact details are constantly on display, enabling you to attract leads simply by driving or parking your van in visible locations.
Signwriting your van can significantly boost your brand's visibility and credibility, effectively reaching a wide audience daily and potentially increasing customer confidence and trust.
The cost varies depending on the size of the van and the complexity of the design, ranging from £165 to £450 for cut vinyl on medium-sized vans like a Vivaro, and between £550 to £1,800 for partial or full wraps.
Signwriting can lead to insurance discounts with some providers, as businesses with branded vans are often perceived as more professional and reliable.
Yes, as long as the signwriting is removed professionally without leaving marks when returning the van. Always check with your leasing company about any potential implications before proceeding.
Start with tar and glue remover; if that's insufficient, T-cut may help, though it's a last resort. Ideally, replacing old signwriting with new ones can effectively cover any colour differences, presenting a refreshed look.