Vehicle wraps and window graphics are computer generated artwork that is digitally printed and applied to a car, van, and truck.
Attention-getting and lead-generating, vehicle wraps provide a “big bang for your buck” when you have a business with delivery or service vehicles.
As advertising, a vehicle wrap is very cost-effective way to brand your company and generate leads. It is less expensive than billboards, television, radio, and print advertising schedules, and more effective than yellow page directory ads!
Wraps are warrantied for 3 years against fading, peeling, and cracking. In most cases, the lifespan of a vehicle wrap is 3 to 5 years.
A commercial registration for your vehicles requires you to properly display the company name, city and state of the business. If you have an ad or lettering promoting a service or company, your vehicle is considered commercial and you need to get the appropriate registration and plates. A vehicle wrap falls under this category.
Leased Vehicles
Wrapping a leased vehicle is a common practice. Vinyl applied over factory paint can be easily removed without damage. That said, you MUST review your lease to understand the details of your agreement. Check to see if there are any provisions in your contract that prohibit adding vinyl graphics or wraps to your vehicle. You may also be able to pre-negotiate terms with your leasing agent that include vehicle wraps. If you plan to turn your vehicle in after the lease period is up, be sure to note the warranty expiration on the vehicle graphic. Vehicle graphics are designed to be easily removed. However, delaying the removal of the graphics beyond the warranty period may create a problem because over time, the adhesive in vehicle wraps becomes more aggressive and more difficult to remove.
Window Graphics
Vinyl graphics for vehicle windows are printed on special window film. This film is perforated with very tiny holes that allow you to see out. For safety reasons, there are state and municipal laws that address where these graphics can and cannot be positioned.
State and Local Regulations
Section 9D of the law in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts which covers “Windshields and windows obscured by nontransparent materials” states that you may not operate any vehicle that has:
A sign, poster, or sticker on the front windshield, the side windows immediately adjacent to the operator’s seat and the front passenger seat, the side windows immediately to the rear of the operator’s seat and the front passenger seat and the rear window in such a manner so as to obstruct, impede or distort the vision of the operator.
Further, you may not operate a vehicle with non-transparent material affixed which has a total visible light reflectance of not more than 35 per cent or a visible light transmittance of not less than 35 per cent on the side windows immediately to the rear of the operator’s seat and the front passenger seat or on the rear window unless the vehicle is equipped with two outside mirrors, one on each side, adjusted so that the driver has a clear view of the road behind the vehicle.
Lastly, graphics on the windshield is limited to the uppermost 6” along the top of the windshield so as not to “encroach upon the driver’s direct forward viewing area.”
Vehicle wraps and window graphics are an effective way to brand your company and to generate leads using ads that travel the roads of your target marketplace.
If you want to know more about how to turn your vehicles into marketing superheros, give us call at (978) 878-9308 or email Noel Choequette who can help you to strategize affordable marketing activities to grow your business.