If you’ve been wondering how much it costs to wrap a car, you’re not alone. Car wraps are becoming increasingly popular as they provide a cost-effective and efficient way for businesses and individuals to transform their vehicles into eye-catching rolling billboards.
But with dozens of different materials, colors, finishes, patterns, and sizes available on the market today, figuring out what kind of job will suit your needs — as well as your budget — can be challenging.
In this blog post we’ll explore all things car wrapping from what goes into its prices to tips that could help make it more affordable so that you can drive away with great looking vehicle in no time!
How Much Does It Cost To Wrap A Car?
Like most services, the cost to wrap a car will vary depending on the size of your vehicle, type of material or color you choose, and complexity of the job. Generally speaking, wraps can range anywhere from $1000 for a simple one-color wrap to upwards of $5,000 or more for full coverage with specialty materials.
On average, most car wraps are priced between $2,000 and $3,500. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay around $12-$15 per square foot for high quality vinyl wrap material. Depending on the size of your vehicle, that could mean anywhere from 50-150 square feet worth of material is needed for a complete job.
In addition to the cost of material, professional installers will also charge a fee for their services. This can range anywhere from $500 to $1000 depending on the complexity of the wrap job.
Factors Affecting Car Wrapping Costs
There are several factors that directly influence the cost of wrapping a car. These factors can significantly increase or decrease the overall price, making it crucial for potential customers to understand them. In the following section, we will delve into these determinants and shed light on how they impact the final car wrapping cost.
Color and Finish
The color and finish of the car wrap significantly affect its cost. Wraps come in a variety of finishes, each carrying a different price tag. Generally, monotone wraps are less expensive, making them a popular choice for those on a budget. On the other hand, wraps with a glittery, multi-colored, or glossy finish tend to be more costly due to the additional work and materials required to achieve these looks.
Chrome wraps are the most expensive vinyl material available. Not only do they offer a distinctive and high-end look, but they are also the most difficult to install. Consequently, the price for chrome wraps starts at around $6,000 for an average car. The final price can increase based on the size of the vehicle and the complexity of the application, making chrome wraps a premium option in the car wrapping market.
Quality of the Vinyl Wrap
The quality of the vinyl wrap is an important factor that affects the overall price of a car wrap. Although higher-quality wraps cost significantly more, they are often a wise investment. That’s because while low-quality wraps may initially look good, they are more prone to cracking, warping around the edges, or developing bubbles that can damage the paint underneath.
If someone wants a vinyl wrap that offers ultraviolet protection, longevity, and durability, a high-quality wrap such as cast vinyl is always the better choice. Although this product is on the higher price end of the scale (e.g., $12 to $16 per foot), it is malleable, waterproof, can be repositioned, and gives excellent ultraviolet protection.
Vinyl Treatments
If a customer selects a vinyl wrap for their car, they might want some form of extra protection to ensure its longevity. This is where vinyl treatments come in to play. These treatments act as a protective layer over the wrap, prolonging its lifespan and maintaining its vibrant colors.
One popular treatment is a nano-ceramic coating. This treatment acts as a durability enhancer and protects the vinyl wrap from several factors that could potentially shorten its lifespan. These factors include ultraviolet rays that could cause the colors to fade over time, minor scratches that could damage the wrap, and water damage from rain or washing the car.
However, it’s worth noting that opting for a vinyl treatment will add to the total cost of wrapping. The average cost of nano-ceramic coating, for instance, ranges from $1,500 to $1,800. While this could increase your initial investment, the benefits in terms of protection and longevity could make it a worthwhile expense.
Size of the Vehicle
Another significant factor that impacts the cost of wrapping a car is the size of the vehicle. Larger vehicles naturally require more wrapping material, and therefore, the cost of wrapping increases proportionally.
For example, if you own a compact car, the wrapping may cost around $2,000. On the other hand, wrapping an SUV may start at $4,000, whereas the average family sedan could set you back $3,000 for a complete wrap job. If you’re a luxury sports car owner, you should be prepared to pay upwards of $6,000 to $12,000 for a high-quality wrap job.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the quantity of wrap needed according to car sizes:
- Compact Car: 49 to 56 feet (approximately 15 to 17 meters)
- Mid-sized Car: 59 to 66 feet (approximately 18 to 20 meters)
- Full-sized Cars, Small SUVs, and Small Vans: 66 to 75 feet (approximately 20 to 23 meters)
Furthermore, the make and model of the vehicle also play a crucial role in the wrapping cost. Vehicles with complex body shapes and designs are more challenging to wrap, requiring a higher level of expertise, thus costing more.
For instance, an average van with flatter surfaces is much easier and less expensive to wrap than a luxury car with intricate curves and detailed designs.
Full or Partial Wrap
The type of wrap you choose—whether full or partial—also has a significant impact on the cost of wrapping a car. A full car wrap covers every external surface of the vehicle, giving it a completely new appearance. Full wraps are more expensive than partial ones, as they require more material and labor. A full wrap can cost anywhere between $2,500 to $6,000 depending on the size of the vehicle and the wrap quality.
Partial wraps, on the other hand, cover only specific portions of the vehicle, such as the hood, roof, or door panels. These wraps are a more economical option, typically costing half as much as a full wrap. They’re a good choice for those wanting to enhance the appearance of their car without completely changing its look or spending as much money.
Condition of the Car
The current condition of your car can also affect the overall cost of wrapping. If your vehicle has dents, scratches, rust, or any form of damage, these issues need to be repaired before the wrap can be applied. Imperfections on the surface can prevent the wrap from adhering properly, leading to poor results and a shorter lifespan for the wrap.
The repair costs can add to your total wrapping expenditure. It’s also worth noting that removing old paint or decals can incur additional charges. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 per hour for car body repair and preparation work. Therefore, it’s crucial to factor in the condition of your car when budgeting for a wrap.
See more: How To Buy A Car
Tips To Help Make Wrapping More Affordable
If you’re considering having your car wrapped and want to make it a more affordable process, there are several strategies you can employ.
To start, do your homework and compare prices from different service providers. You’ll likely find a wide range of prices, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your budget. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the service quality matches the price.
Opt for partial wraps if your budget is tight. This type of wrap can still significantly enhance the look of your car without breaking the bank. It’s also worth considering the durability and longevity of the wrap. Investing in a high-quality wrap might seem costly initially, but it could save you money in the long run by preventing frequent replacements.
Be vigilant about maintaining your car wrap. Routine maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of the wrap, preventing premature wear and tear and unnecessary replacement costs. Regularly cleaning your car and avoiding harsh weather conditions are simple yet effective ways to maintain your wrap.
Lastly, consider the timing of your car wrap installation. Off-peak seasons or times when business is slow could make service providers more willing to negotiate on the price. Remember that patience and research can go a long way in helping you find affordable wrapping options without compromising on quality.
Final Thought
Deciding to wrap your car is an exciting endeavor that can give your vehicle a unique and stunning look. While the cost could be significant, the benefits such as personalized aesthetics, protection of the original paint, and car value preservation make it a worthwhile investment.
It’s important to remember that a car wrap is not just a sticker you apply to your car – it’s a professional service that demands skill, experience, and precision. Therefore, choosing the right service provider is critical.
Do your research, compare costs, and consider all the factors that could affect the final price. Remember, quality should not be compromised for the sake of cutting costs. A poorly done wrap can harm your vehicle and result in more costs in the long run.
Lastly, don’t forget that proper maintenance can significantly lengthen the lifespan of your wrap, delivering better value for your money. Whether you’re considering a full or partial wrap, the key is to make an informed decision that aligns with both your aesthetic preferences and budget.