4 Steps to Vehicle Graphics, aka Vehicle Wraps, Car Wraps, Truck Wraps, Van Wraps

4 Steps to Vehicle Graphics, aka Vehicle Wraps, Car Wraps, Van Wraps, Truck Wraps

There are 4 steps to getting your company vehicle wrapped.
1. Designing – This is the most important step in the process. Customers can provide print-ready artwork but it’s rare. Designing within the confines of the vehicle’s size and shape takes expertise that most people don’t have. A graphic designer with experience in vehicle graphics can create an ad from scratch or use your ad campaign concept and convert it to an effective vehicle wrap. Where the graphics line up with the contours of the vehicle, trim, windows, spaces between the door openings, mirrors, etc. can make or break a good design. All these little details vary greatly from one vehicle to another – even from year to year on the same model. Exact measurements and good photos are critical to getting the design to fit.

2. Proofing – Another very important step. Look at the proof VERY carefully. In fact, it’s a good idea to have several people scrutinize it to identify any mistakes. The more changes to the proof, the longer it will take to complete job so try to get all the changes done in as few renditions as possible.

3. Production – Quality materials are a must. Once the design is finalized, it can go to print. The vinyl and the laminate used for vehicle graphics should always be “cast”, i.e. high-performance. Don’t settle for less. 3M makes very high-quality vehicle graphic vinyls and laminates but there are other good products out there too. Just be sure the vinyl and laminate are “cast”. The laminate will protect the graphic from fading, scratching, weather, and pollution.  

4. Installation – Experienced installers make the difference. Inexperienced installers will take longer and cannot be expected to do as good a job as professional installer. Many vehicle wrap installers have invested in obtaining certifications that prove they know what they are doing. A poorly installed vehicle wrap will not last as long or look as good as it should.