Raccoon’s tips for easy vehicle wrapping
Graphics specialist Raccoon has offered guidance for fleet operators on how they can go about easing the vehicle wrapping process.
“If you’re looking to brand one or more vehicles, then vinyl graphics or ‘liveries’ are the way to go,” advised Raccoon.
“These can be applied with stickers, but most companies choose to wrap their vehicles in printed sheets, known as vehicle wrapping. Wraps are quick to install, last around five years, and are much cheaper than spray painting.
“It’s a sound investment, but you’ll still have a budget in mind and want the installation to be quick and easy, without disrupting your business.”
To ensure graphics are installed on budget and as conveniently as possible, says the company, fleet operators will first need to decide if they want a full wrap, a partial wrap, or simple graphics like lettering.
“Prices vary, but the average cost to fully wrap a van is around £3,200 excluding VAT,” said the firm.
“Half wraps cost about half this amount, while simple graphics can run as low as £500 because they use the fewest materials.
“If you’re wrapping more than one vehicle, see if you can get a ‘per vehicle’ discount. Usually reserved for working on three or more vehicles, this discount can really take the sting out of that initial cost.”
Once you’ve looked at your budget and chosen the type of wrap you want, says Raccoon, it’s time to decide how your vehicle should look.
“While some contractors list their services on the sides of their vans, fleets usually feature bold colours and simple branding. You could keep it simple with a logo, strapline and contact details, or you could try for maximum exposure with a bold and colourful design…
“You’ll then need to apply your design to a 2D vehicle template. It’s important to download the right template for the make and model, otherwise there could be delays during the installation.
“Take our advice and find a graphic designer who knows Adobe Illustrator like the back of their hand, or you could see if your installer offers this service in-house. Vehicle templates are complicated, so they’re best left to the design experts.”
The next step, says the firm, is to show your finished design to your wrapping company as soon as possible.
“An experienced team will have seen and done it all, so they might be able to suggest minor changes that will help you stand out or save money on the wrap. Why not take this as an opportunity to learn more about your project?
“You could find out how long the process will take which parts of the vehicle should and shouldn’t be wrapped (like door handles), and discuss any aftercare your graphics might need.”
The firm recommends trying to get fleet vehicles wrapped before handing them over to drivers.
“In fact, we recommend branding your fleet as soon as they show up at the dealership. This cuts out logistical problems and ensures your drivers can hit the road with the graphics already applied.
“It’s also good practice to ask your wrap company about the materials used and the guarantees supplied.”
Premium vinyl manufacturers provide product warranties, says the company, but it adds that there’s a good chance the installer will recommend one over the other.
“Raccoon often uses Arlon for fleet vehicles, for example, because they’re easy to contact and (in our experience) more likely to pay out if there’s a problem.
“Above all, choose an established company that’s open to your needs and happy to answer your questions. If they’ve spent years serving busy clients just like you and are prepared to go the extra mile, you’ll know you’re in safe hands.”
Raccoon has installed vehicle graphics for over 30 years. It provides free vehicle templates, and its in-house designers offer free 30-minute sessions where they can show fleet operators 2D drawings and 3D renders of their vehicles with the graphics applied.
For a better idea of cost, the company also offers an online budget calculator which can provide an instant, on-screen quote.
