THERE are some important lessons to learn about how to use vehicle signage.

One of the first is ‘don’t overcomplicate things’, according to Justin Pearce, national accounts manager for Signs Express.

He said: ‘You are aiming to have an impact, therefore it should be relatively simple. Your van may be visible to 3,000 people per hour, but they won’t have time to read the Lord’s Prayer written down the side of your vehicle.

‘Catch their eyes with a simple message. Some people are finding that the web address for the company is now more memorable than a phone number.’

It also pays to think about the circumstances in which each part of the van might be seen.

Pearce said: ‘The rear of the van might be the place to put important messages and information because in traffic, people will be sitting behind you reading it. People will also be behind you a long time on single carriageways. However, on the front, you won’t have much time to get your message across.’

Budgets will determine how much is spend, but consider the issue of removing the film as well as putting it on. Pearce added: ‘With cheaper vinyls, it can delaminate, so the top of the film will come off, but there will be a residue. It can take three times as long to remove as a vinyl that is fit for purpose.’

But removing the vinyl is essential, so if the van is driven badly by a second owner, it isn’t your company’s reputation at stake. However, while the van is under your ownership, making sure your drivers are courteous in their mobile billboards is vital.