Van and Truck Wrapping in NJ: Top 5 factors to consider
When searching for a vehicle wrap provider, you’ll find that prices and quality can vary dramatically. If cutting costs is your main goal, choosing the cheapest option might seem like a smart decision—but is it really? As with most things in life, the saying “you get what you pay for” is especially true in the vehicle wrap industry.
A poorly executed wrap can cost you far more in the long run, from lost business opportunities to expensive removals and repairs. To ensure your investment pays off, here are five key factors to consider when choosing a vehicle wrap provider.
1. The Power of Professional Design
If you’re only wrapping your vehicle for a color change, design quality may not matter much. But when it comes to commercial vehicle wraps, design is everything.
Think about it: Have you ever seen a commercial vehicle on the road with a stunning, eye-catching wrap that screamed professionalism? That wrap was likely designed by a professional wrap designer—someone who understands marketing, branding, and visibility.
On the flip side, have you seen a wrap disaster? Maybe it was cluttered with low-resolution images, excessive text, and poor color choices—a chaotic mess that failed to communicate the brand’s message.
The reality is, most wrap shops do not employ true wrap designers. Instead, they rely on production staff with limited design experience, leading to mediocre results. A bad design not only fails to attract customers but can actually harm your company’s image, costing you clients and credibility.
Key Takeaway:
✅ Choose a wrap shop that employs experienced, professional designers who specialize in vehicle branding.
2. Print Quality Matters
Not all large-format printing technology is created equal. The quality of the imaging, colors, and durability can vary greatly depending on the printer, ink, and vinyl used.
For the best results, look for 3M MCS Warranty Certified shops. These providers use premium-grade vinyls, inks, and laminates to create a “matched component system”, ensuring:
✔ Vibrant colors that maintain consistency
✔ Sharp, high-definition prints that enhance your branding
✔ Long-term durability that withstands the elements
Some shops cut corners by using low-quality inks and vinyls that fade quickly, crack, or peel, leaving you with a worn-out wrap long before its expected lifespan.
Key Takeaway:
✅ Ensure your wrap provider uses high-quality, 3M-certified materials for long-lasting, professional results.
3. The Skill Level of Your Installer
The vehicle wrap industry is unregulated, meaning anyone can call themselves a wrap installer, regardless of skill or experience.
To maintain industry standards, 3M developed its Certified Installers Program—a rigorous certification process that ensures installers:
✔ Have mastered the art of wrapping
✔ Use proper techniques for a seamless finish
✔ Apply wraps without bubbles, wrinkles, or misalignment
✔ Understand best practices for longevity and durability
If a wrap shop is 3M Certified, you can trust that their installers meet high-quality standards. However, beware of shops claiming to be 3M Preferred—this is not the same as being 3M Certified.
Key Takeaway:
✅ Always choose a shop with 3M Certified installers to guarantee expert-level craftsmanship.
4. Hidden Costs of Wrap Removal
You may not be thinking about wrap removal when getting your vehicle wrapped, but you should.
Believe it or not, removing a low-quality wrap can cost more than the original installation! Why? Several factors impact wrap removability, including:
- The type of vinyl & lamination used – Cheap vinyls often leave glue residue or damage the paint.
- Wrap age – Older wraps, especially low-grade films, become brittle and harder to remove.
- Exposure to the elements – Vehicles in harsh climates (intense sun, extreme cold) see faster degradation.
- Proper maintenance – Poorly maintained wraps can bond too strongly to the vehicle, making removal more difficult.
Premium 3M wrap films are designed to be removable within a 5-year window without leaving adhesive residue or damaging paint. Cheap wraps? Not so much.
Key Takeaway:
✅ Invest in high-quality materials to avoid expensive, time-consuming removals down the line.
5. Scheduling & Logistics: Avoid Unnecessary Downtime
For businesses, having a vehicle off the road means lost productivity. The last thing you want is delays because your wrap provider lacks the proper staff and coordination.
Many small wrap shops don’t have dedicated project managers—leaving you dealing with miscommunication, scheduling errors, and extended downtime.
Even large “print house” companies often outsource their installations to the cheapest bidder, meaning:
- Unqualified installers may be handling your wrap
- Office staff with no install experience coordinate your job, leading to mistakes
- Delays and scheduling conflicts become commonplace
A reliable wrap provider has a dedicated scheduling team that understands the importance of efficiency.
Key Takeaway:
✅ Work with a provider that prioritizes commercial vehicle scheduling to minimize downtime and keep your business running.
Final Thoughts: Invest Wisely in Your Wrap
A vehicle wrap is one of the best marketing investments you can make, but cutting corners on quality can lead to frustration, lost revenue, and expensive fixes.
Avoid the Pitfalls by Choosing a Reputable Wrap Provider That Offers:
✔ Professional design expertise for a powerful, eye-catching wrap
✔ High-quality, 3M-certified materials for durability and longevity
✔ Certified installation for a flawless finish
✔ Easy removal when the time comes
✔ Well-managed scheduling to reduce downtime
At Air Graphix, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier wraps that enhance your brand’s visibility while ensuring long-term durability.
🔹 Thinking about wrapping your next vehicle? Contact us today to discuss your project and get a wrap that delivers real results!
