November 2008, Work Truck - Feature
Vehicle Graphics Do's, Dont's, and Advice
By Lauren Fletcher
Vehicle graphics are a way to advertise a business or create an identity for fleet vehicles. To explore the "do’s and don’ts" of vehicle graphics, and gather advice for fleets, Work Truck spoke with Scott Morrison, director of operations/logistics of SkinzWraps, Inc.; Steve Whitaker, vice president of sales of Signature Graphics, Inc.; and Trace George, president/CEO of VSP Marketing Graphics Group. Graphic examples are displayed throughout this article.
Vehicle Graphic Do’s
What steps should be taken in determining graphics to place on fleet vehicles and which vendors to select? Here are some helpful ideas.
- Use an experienced vehicle graphics designer to create the original version of the image and text and have an experienced vehicle graphic professional measure the vehicle.
- Consider and communicate durability requirements.
- Review the graphics provider’s financial strength and developmental support tools.
- Request references and/or the design company’s portfolio. Because a local sign company can make signs doesn’t necessarily mean it can produce vehicle wraps, lettering, etc., for fleets.
- Understand the value-added resources available from a supplier.
- Use a certified graphic company to design and install fleet graphics.
- Prepare an image that works appropriately with the vehicle.