Van lettering

What actually needs to go on

Think of the person stuck behind you at the lights. They need to know what you do and how to reach you, and they will not read a list of 14 services. Order your information by importance: trade first, then your name, then one phone number or website. Skip the fax number and social handles you rarely use. A strapline can stay, if it's short. Put the same core details on the sides and rear, because the back doors are what most traffic sees.

Panels, ribs and door gaps

A van is not a flat sheet. Side panels have swage lines, ribs, sliding door runners and handles, and the letters must cross or avoid each of these. Lettering usually looks neatest when it sits on the smooth area above or below the main crease. Rear door gaps can split a word down the middle, so a design often repeats a smaller block on each door. Tell us your exact make, model, wheelbase and roof height, as they differ more than you might expect.

Cut letters, printed graphics or a mix?

Plain cut vinyl gives crisp single-colour text, while printed film allows gradients, photos and detailed logos. Many vans end up with a blend of both. Reflective material on the rear can add visibility at night, and our reflective signs page explains how it works; check any rules for your vehicle type. On leased vans, confirm that removal is allowed, as old paint can fade around the letters. See vehicle graphics for bigger coverage.

Related topics

• Fleet graphics
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