Guide to van signwriting

If you're thinking about putting graphics and logos to your van, but don't know where to start, then here's everything you need to know in our handy guide to van signwriting.

Pros and cons of van signwriting

One of the biggest advantages of signwriting is the long-term, low-cost advertising you get from having your business details visible whilst you're on the move.

It's easy to underestimate the power of using your work van as a marketing tool, but it could be seen by up to 2,000 people every day -- which is a lot of potential business.

Sign-written vans can also make your business look more professional and create a perception of trust and legitimacy -- after all, if you're happy to tell everyone who you are, then the assumption is you'll take pride in what you do.

Nevertheless, some people believe that signwriting your van, can increase the chances of your van being broken into because you're highlighting the type of equipment you have inside it -- and it's why around 34% of contractors decide not to brand their vehicles.

Does signwriting affect my van insurance premium?

Ultimately, it depends on the insurance provider.

Some insurance providers will reduce the cost of your premium if you have signwriting on your van. To them, it demonstrates that you're serious about looking after the tools of your trade and are more likely to take care of your vehicle.

It also suggests that you're more likely to drive sensibly because you're advertising who you are and therefore less inclined to break any rules of the road -- lowering the risk of an accident. A number of insurers also believe that having an easily identifiable, sign-written van, makes it less of a target for thieves.

However, signwriting is technically a modification and because modified vehicles can be more expensive to repair, it could increase your premium with some insurers.

If you do decide to sign-write your van, then always make sure you tell your insurer because if you don't, it could invalidate your policy.

How much does signwriting cost?

Van signwriting prices vary depending on a number of factors, such as the graphics you want and how big your van is -- so transit van signwriting will set you back more than a small Citroen Berlingo, for example.

Vinyl signwriting is one of the simplest and most popular ways of adding graphics to vehicles. In terms of cost, you can expect to pay around £450 to sign-write a large transit, whilst smaller vehicles could cost you less than £200. Of course, the fancier your graphics -- the more expensive it's likely to be.

If you're after something a bit bolder, vinyl wraps are another way of adding visuals to your vehicle; it's where sheets of vinyl are applied all around your van completely transforming the way it looks. Good quality wraps can be scratch proof and made to resist oil and sun fade.

Compared to vinyl signwriting, wrapping is a longer-term investment and can set you back more than £1500 -- but they should last between seven to ten years. You can opt for partial wraps which won't cost as much -- between £600 and £1000.

Van signwriting DIY?

Vinyl signwriting and wraps are best done by professionals, although you can buy bespoke vinyl lettering and apply them to your vehicle yourself; but if you're looking for a less expensive option -- then consider magnetic signs.

Magnetic signs are great if you hire your van or if you're borrowing someone else's for a short period of time. They're also inexpensive with a pair of signs costing from around £35 for a 600mm x 200mm sign; of course, the larger the sign the more expensive it will be.

If you do choose magnetic signs, try to ensure they're at least 0.8mm thick -- otherwise you could find they fall off at motorway speeds.

What else do I need to consider?

Signwriting your van tells everyone who sees it, exactly what you do -- so here are some top tips to getting it right:

Ask for recommendations for sign-writers, or look at previous work
Check spelling – typos are not professional
Keep it simple– remember, people are reading this on your van, it should be clear and concise
Say what you do – make it obvious what your trade is, signwriting just your name won’t mean much unless it’s a household one

Keeping your van protected

We understand that finding the right type of policy isn't always easy -- which is why you'll find a wealth of information at your fingertips at The Van Insurer to help you choose cover that's right for you; plus, we guarantee to beat your cheapest quote -- so start searching right now.