If you've been putting off sorting your fleet graphics, you're not alone. For many businesses, fleet branding sits somewhere on the to-do list, acknowledged as important, but delayed because the process feels unclear, time-consuming or difficult to coordinate around a working fleet.
The reality is that a well-run fleet branding project doesn't have to be disruptive. With the right supplier, the process is straightforward, and the result, a consistent, professional fleet that reinforces your brand everywhere it goes, is well worth the effort.
Here's how the process works when you work with Safety Decals.
Step 1 — Initial Discussion and Specification
Every project starts with a conversation. We'll want to understand:
- How many vehicles are in scope, and what types (vans, HGVs, trailers, plant machinery, etc.)
- Your branding goals — full livery, partial graphics, reflective Chapter 8 markings, or a combination
- Whether you have existing brand guidelines, logos and artwork, or need us to work from scratch
- Your timescales and any operational constraints (vehicles in continuous use, phased availability, etc.)
This stage helps us build an accurate specification and quote. The more information you can share upfront, the smoother everything that follows will be.
Step 2 — Artwork and Design
If you have print-ready artwork, we can move quickly. If not, our team will work with your brand assets to create layouts suited to each vehicle type in your fleet.
This stage covers:
- Logo placement, sizing and proportions across different vehicle dimensions
- Contact details, website address and any regulatory text
- Reflective elements and Chapter 8 compliance markings where required
- Colour matching to your brand palette
One thing often overlooked at this stage: what works on a Sprinter van does not automatically translate to a 7.5-tonne box body or a trailer side. We account for these differences in the design rather than applying a one-size template.
Step 3 — Proof Approval
Before anything goes to print, you'll receive proofs to review. We'd always recommend taking the time to check these carefully — looking at vehicle proportions, text accuracy, logo colours and overall layout.
We retain your approved artwork files on our system, which makes future repeat orders, replacements and additions to your fleet significantly faster and easier.
Step 4 — Print Production and Finishing
Once proofs are approved, production begins. Depending on the specification, this may involve:
- Digital vinyl printing
- Laminating for durability and UV protection
- Reflective material production for Chapter 8 kits
- Cut vinyl lettering and graphics
- Preparation and kitting for installation
Production timescales vary by order size and complexity — typically 5–10 working days for most fleet projects. We'll give you a clear production timeline at the point of order confirmation.
Step 5 — Installation
Installation can be handled in several ways depending on your fleet and location:
- Vehicles brought to our facility for fitting
- Mobile fitting arranged at your depot or site
- Phased installations scheduled around your operational requirements
For businesses running vehicles in continuous use, we're used to working around availability constraints and can schedule installations to minimise downtime.
What Happens After the Project?
Fleet branding isn't a one-off event. Vehicles get damaged, graphics wear over time, and fleets grow. Having a supplier who holds your artwork and knows your specification means replacements and additions are quick to turn around rather than starting from scratch each time.
We support many businesses on an ongoing basis, providing replacement decals, updating livery when branding evolves, and supporting new vehicle additions as fleets expand.
Ready to get started, or want to discuss your fleet branding requirements? Get in touch with our team — we're happy to talk through the options and provide a no-obligation quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What file formats do you need for artwork?
Ideally, we work with vector files — AI, EPS or PDF formats are preferred as they can be scaled to any vehicle size without loss of quality. High-resolution raster files (TIFF or PNG at 300dpi or above) are also workable for many applications. If you only have a JPEG logo or a low-resolution file, get in touch and we'll advise on the best route forward. In some cases we can redraw or recreate artwork to the required standard.
What if I don't have a logo or brand guidelines yet?
We can still help. If you're at an early stage with your branding, we're happy to work with whatever assets you have — even if that's just a business name and a colour preference. We'll create proposals for you to review and refine. That said, if you're planning a wider rebrand, it's usually worth getting your core brand identity established first so your fleet graphics are consistent with everything else you put out.
How many proof revisions do I get?
We include revisions as part of the process and want to make sure you're completely happy with the design before it goes to print. We'll always work with you to get it right. If a project involves extensive redesign work beyond the original scope, we'll discuss this with you before proceeding rather than surprising you with additional costs.
Can you match our exact brand colours?
Yes — colour accuracy is something we take seriously. We work to Pantone references where possible, and for vinyl products we match to the closest available material colour. If you have specific colour standards (RAL, Pantone, CMYK values), share them with us at the brief stage and we'll confirm what's achievable with the materials being used for your project.
What's the minimum fleet size you work with?
There's no minimum. We work with sole traders branding a single vehicle as readily as we work with national operators rolling out graphics across hundreds. Whether you have one van or a hundred, get in touch and we'll tailor our approach to suit.