Vinyl wrap vendors can range from companies that focus solely on creating and installing vinyl wraps to sign shops or graphic design companies that offer wraps as an additional service. Both can offer quality products and services, but companies that work exclusively with wraps typically have the most experience. However, you may pay a little more for that level of experience.

Wrap certification
When shopping around for the right vehicle wrap vendor, it’s important to find one that is certified by one of the top vinyl manufacturers in the U.S. Manufacturers like 3M, Avery, and Oracal – and distributors like Fellers that work with multiple brands of vinyl – provide certified training for vendors to ensure that they learn the best methods for applying vinyl wraps.

To become certified, vendors go through an intensive multiday course to learn each aspect of a vinyl wrap installation – from properly aligning and affixing the material to wrapping complex angles and rivets. Once vendors complete training, the manufacturer certifies them and lets them promote their new status to potential customers. By working with a certified vendor, you can have increased confidence that the job will be done properly.

Conduct a site visit
If possible, arrange a visit to the vendor’s facilities. This lets you watch various stages of wrap production and the level of attention that goes into each step.

Observe the processes of designing, printing, and laminating wraps, and examine the finished product for quality. Try to view an actual installation, and take note of the installer’s attention to detail. Does the installer frequently reposition the graphics to get the right fit? Are there any noticeable creases or bubbles in the material after each panel is applied? How careful is the installer when cutting away excess material? This will give you a good idea of the type of service you can expect.

If you can’t visit a wrapping facility, ask the vendor to provide a finished sample of a wrap panel so you can review the material and quality and envision what your wrap may look like.

Other things to look for
In addition to certification, there are other significant signs of quality and reliability you should look for in a vehicle wrap provider.

Since the average cost of a wrap will be similar across multiple dealers, look for ways vendors distinguish themselves from others. Can you meet with the vendor to discuss different design possibilities? Can the designer make suggested changes quickly? Will the vendor walk you through the finished job to ensure that you’re happy? You want to make sure you select a company that is committed to making you comfortable with the purchase.

Be wary of dealers whose prices are far lower than their competition. A dealer who quotes a rate half as much as your other bids should raise a red flag. Companies that offer cut rates are unlikely to stay in business long, and may not be around if you have problems down the line.

Finally, ask the vendor about the warranty. Policies vary from vendor to vendor, but you’re typically covered for 1 to 3 years on exterior installations and one year on window perf installations. The manufacturer’s warranty covers the material for 5 to 10 years. Vendors’ warranties only cover installation failures due to their negligence (e.g., improper cleaning, faulty material cuts). Vendors are not responsible for wrap damage caused by acts of nature or customer abuse.