If you run a business that operates on the move, vehicle signage is one of the smartest and most cost-effective ways to advertise. Whether you’re a sole trader with a single van or manage a full fleet across multiple locations, branded vehicles are like mobile billboards – constantly working for you wherever you go.
Unlike digital ads or social media posts that disappear in a scroll, vehicle graphics give your brand a lasting presence on the road. From bold full wraps to simple decals, the right signage helps you stand out, build trust, and win new customers.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything UK businesses need to know before investing in vehicle signage. We’ll explore the different types, the benefits, design tips, cost breakdowns, and what to expect throughout the process.
Types of Vehicle Signage
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to vehicle branding. The right type of signage depends on your budget, the size of your vehicle, how much coverage you want, and the message you want to get across. Below are the most common options used by our customers.
Vinyl Lettering & Decals
This is the most affordable and flexible option. Cut vinyl graphics are applied directly to the vehicle’s panels, usually featuring your logo, phone number, web address, QR code and perhaps a tagline. They’re great for clean, simple branding and ideal if you only want partial coverage.
Partial Wraps
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A partial wrap covers part of the vehicle – often the sides, back doors or bonnet – while leaving the original paintwork visible elsewhere. These offer more impact than simple decals but are still cost-effective and can be tailored to specific branding areas.
Full Wraps
A full wrap transforms the entire exterior of the vehicle into a custom design space. It’s perfect for bold, eye-catching designs that get noticed in traffic and on the job. Full wraps also provide a protective layer over your paintwork, helping preserve resale value.
Magnetic Signs
Magnetic panels are removable signs that can be applied to flat parts of a vehicle, such as doors. They’re useful for those who use personal vehicles for work or want to remove branding outside of business hours. However, they’re not suitable for curved surfaces and can be less durable over time.
Window Graphics
Perforated vinyl window graphics allow visibility from inside the vehicle while displaying a full-colour print on the outside. These are popular for rear windows and can extend your branding without obstructing driver visibility.
Reflective & High-Visibility Graphics
For vehicles operating at night or on construction sites, high-vis decals or reflective chevrons (often in line with Chapter 8 regulations) improve safety and visibility. These are often required for utility fleets or roadside service vehicles.
Benefits of Vehicle Signage
Whether you're wrapping a single van or branding a full fleet, vehicle signage offers a number of long-term benefits that other marketing channels simply can't match.
1. 24/7 Advertising
Your vehicle works for you day and night, even when it’s parked. Branded graphics turn everyday travel into continuous exposure, helping you reach thousands of people weekly without ongoing ad spend.
2. Builds Trust and Professionalism
A clean, well-designed wrap makes your business look established and trustworthy. Clients are more likely to hire a company that looks the part – especially in competitive industries like trades, logistics, or property services.
3. Local Brand Awareness
Because most travel is done locally, vehicle branding naturally helps build name recognition in your area. Over time, your business becomes familiar to people in your community.
4. Cost-Effective Over Time
Unlike pay-per-click ads or boosted posts, vehicle signage is a one-time cost with long-term visibility. Most wraps last up to 4 to 7 years, offering excellent return on investment.
5. Paint Protection
Full wraps act as a layer of protection against scratches, sun fade and minor abrasions – a bonus if you plan to resell or return a leased vehicle later.
Design Tips That Work
A strong design is essential to make the most of your vehicle signage.
Here are some key principles that apply to all types of graphics:
Keep It Clear and Readable
Make sure your logo, business name and contact details are visible from a distance. Avoid overly detailed and cluttered designs that become hard to read when the vehicle is in motion. In our experience, less can be more and larger sized signage that matches the vehicle's lines works best.
Prioritise Key Info
Include only the most important details – typically your services, website and phone number. Less is more when it comes to layout and text.
Use Bold Colours and Contrast
High-contrast colours and bold visuals stand out on the road. Use your brand colours to stay consistent across all marketing. Our team can help you pick the perfect vinyl and print options to suit your brand, vehicle type and everyday use – ensuring your graphics stay sharp and durable for years to come.
Think About Positioning
Side panels and rear doors are prime spaces for signage, especially when parked in traffic or in busy areas. Consider how and where your vehicle is used day to day. Will you want window graphics if staff are regularly making deliveries and reversing out of driveways? Are there areas – like door handles or sliding panels – that get constant use and may cause wear to the graphics over time? Planning around these practical details helps ensure your signage stays visible and lasts longer.
Include a Call to Action
If space allows, include a simple line such as “Visit us online” or “Get a free quote” to encourage next steps.
Cost Breakdown
The cost of vehicle signage can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size and shape of your vehicle, the materials used, the condition of the vehicle, and the complexity of the design. For instance, larger vehicles or those with complex curves may require more material and labour, increasing the overall cost. The choice between high-quality cast vinyl, which offers greater durability, and more affordable calendered vinyl can also impact pricing. Additionally, vehicles with existing damage or old graphics may need extra preparation work before a new wrap or graphics can be applied. Complex designs with intricate graphics or multiple colours will also add to the cost. Understanding these variables is crucial for budgeting effectively for your vehicle signage project. Here’s a rough guide to help you budget:
Vinyl Lettering and Decals
From £150 - £500+
Great for small cars and vans or single-door coverage. Prices depend on how much text or logo work is needed to cover your vehicle.
Partial Wraps
From £500 - £2,500
Covers key areas like side panels and the rear. Often a good balance between impact and cost.
Full Wraps
From £1,500 - £4500+
Offers complete coverage with full customisation. Larger vehicles and premium finishes like matte or chrome cost more.
Design Fees
From £100 - £400+
A professional design tailored to your brand is worth the investment. Reusing existing artwork can reduce this cost. We offer great value in our design services.
Installation
Usually included in your quote, but may be billed separately for complex installs, multiple vehicles or poor vehicle prep - increasing labour time.
Legal and Practical Considerations
Before booking a wrap, it's worth knowing what’s involved behind the scenes. Here are some important points:
Vehicle Condition
The surface needs to be clean and in good condition. Rust, dents or flaking paint can affect how well the wrap adheres – and how long it lasts.
Lease or Finance Agreements
Always check with your vehicle finance provider before wrapping a leased or financed vehicle. Some may require wraps to be removed before return.
DVLA and Insurance
You don’t usually need to notify the DVLA unless the wrap changes the vehicle’s colour completely. However, it's smart to inform your insurer to make sure your policy remains valid.
Reflective Markings
If your vehicle operates on roadsides or construction sites, you may need to follow Chapter 8 regulations, including the use of reflective chevrons or high-vis strips, which we can help you find the best option.
Lifespan and Maintenance
A well-installed wrap can last several years – but looking after it will help extend its life and keep your branding sharp. Before any full wrap, it’s important to have all bodywork repaired and thoroughly checked – we’ll always carry out a vehicle survey beforehand, but please note we can’t guarantee wrap longevity if the vehicle’s surface is damaged, rusted or poorly prepared.
How Long Does It Last?
Most wraps last between 3 to 7 years. High-quality vinyl, proper care and clean application make a big difference in whether the vinyl lasts up to the tail-end of those years.
Cleaning Tips
Wash your vehicle regularly by hand using gentle detergents. For best results, use a soft sponge with an anti-static vinyl wash and dry with microfibre towels. If you need to rinse, use a hose on low or no pressure, and avoid pressure washers, drive-through car washes or abrasive cleaning tools.
When to Refresh
If your branding has changed, your contact details are out of date, or the wrap is starting to peel or fade – it’s time for an update. Refreshing your design can keep your business looking modern and reliable.
Need some advice or help with your vehicle?
Vehicle signage is one of the most powerful tools a business can use to boost visibility and build trust. Whether you’re a start-up or an established brand, turning your van, car or fleet into a moving advert can deliver real returns without the ongoing costs of other marketing.
That said, getting it right does take a bit of thought – from design choices to materials, surface condition and installation. That’s where we come in. At MCR Media, we offer a full design, print and installation service for vehicle wraps, decals and fleet branding across Sussex and beyond. From concept to completion, we pride ourselves on our service, making the process creative and hassle-free.
Ready to transform your vehicle?
Request a quote or view our vehicle signage portfolio to see what’s possible.
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