Quick answer
What should I put on my van signwriting?
Put your business name, your main trade, your area, your number and a short website address. That's it.
The jargon
The words you'll come across, in plain English.
- Signwriting: the lettering and graphics on your van. Usually vinyl stickers now.
- Wrap: a printed film covering most or all of the van.
- ASA: the Advertising Standards Authority, which polices adverts. A van counts.
- Proof: the final design you check before it's printed.
What goes biggest
What should be biggest on the van?
- Your name or logo, biggest
- Your main trade, in plain words
- A short phone number and website
- Strong contrast
- Plenty of space
- Different layouts checked for the sides, back and doors
Claims
What claims can I put on my van?
Qualifications, memberships, years in the trade, review scores, guarantees and green claims must be true and current. Don't suggest you're approved by anyone who hasn't approved you.
Security
Can van signs attract thieves?
Leave off your home address and anything that tells people there's expensive kit inside.
Before you design it
What should I decide before the design?
Write down what goes on it, in order of importance, before anyone picks colours. For most vans, being recognised matters more than a full list of services. The back suits a short number for people in traffic; the sides carry your main trade.
- Photograph your exact van from each side
- Mark handles, windows, rails, sensors and door gaps
- Check the spelling and every digit of the number
- Check you're allowed to use the logo and fonts on a vehicle
- Ask for a proof of each side, to scale
- Check colours and materials with the signwriter
- Agree how old graphics come off
Once it's done, photograph the van, and update any photos on your website that show the old one.
Test it
How do I check the design before printing?
Do this
Print the design big, look at it from across a car park, and ask someone to read the number once.
Not this
Approve a close up on a laptop without checking door gaps, handles, colours or reading distance.
Sources
Where this guide comes from.
Checked against these official pages on 27/10/2026. Next check due 27/01/2027. Things can change sooner, so check the official page before an important decision.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions.
Should I list every service?
No. Your main trade. Your website can do the detail.
Should I add social media icons?
Only if they're useful and don't crowd out your number.
Can I show trade body logos?
Only if they allow it, and following their rules.
Do I need reflective graphics?
That's up to you. Check with the signwriter what's suitable.
Should I put my home address on the van?
No, unless you have to. Keep private details off.
How long should a van design last?
As long as it's accurate, readable and in good nick. Update it when your details change.
Got a question?
Send us a message and we'll point you in the right direction.
We're happy to help, even if it's not about a website.
