A group of business trucks covered in fleet wraps

The right vehicle wrap can help your business get more attention on the road, boost sales, and make your brand a household name. With busy streets and highways, vehicle wraps are a great way to stand out from the competition and reach potential customers.

But how do you choose the best vehicle wrap for your business in Washington DC? Here are 6 options to consider, along with their price range and examples.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • How to choose the right wrapping service for you
  • The 6 best vehicle wrapping services in Washington DC
  • A DIY guide to vehicle wrapping
  • Vehicle wrapping alternatives

Heads up — if you want high-quality vehicle wraps that last, AP Graphics has what you need. With a team of 3M-certified technicians, you get a vehicle wrap that extends your brand and your car’s lifespan. Book a consultation today to find the right fit for you.

How to Choose a Vehicle Wrapping Service in Washington DC

When it comes to getting a vehicle wrap, choosing the right service provider is crucial. You want a provider who can work on your schedule, within your budget, and produce high-quality results. In Washington DC, you have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to vehicle wrapping services. To help you narrow down your choices and find the best one for your needs, here are some key factors to consider.

1. Experience and Expertise

The first thing you should look for in a vehicle wrapping service is their experience and expertise.

  • How long have they been in the industry?
  • Do they specialize in vehicle wraps or offer a wide range of services?
  • Do they have experience working with different types of vehicles and materials?

It’s important to choose a provider with extensive knowledge and skills in vehicle wrapping, as this can greatly impact the overall quality and longevity of your wrap.

2. Portfolio and Reviews

Before choosing a vehicle wrapping service, take the time to look through their portfolio and read reviews from past clients.

  • Have they worked with a client like you before?
  • Do they have a good track record of producing high-quality wraps?
  • Are their clients satisfied with the results and service received?

This will give you an idea of the quality of work and service you can expect from the provider. You can also ask for references to get direct feedback from previous customers.

3. Customization Options

Everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to vehicle wraps, so it’s important to choose a service provider that offers customization options.

  • Can they create custom designs and graphics for your wrap?
  • Do they offer a variety of materials, colors, and finishes?
  • Are they open to incorporating your ideas and vision into the design?

You want a vehicle wrap that reflects your brand and stands out, so make sure the provider has the ability to tailor the wrap to your specific needs.

4. Quality of Materials

The quality of materials used for your vehicle wrap is crucial.

  • What type of vinyl do they use?
  • Do they offer warranties on their materials?
  • Are the materials durable and able to withstand outdoor elements?

High-quality vinyl is essential for a long-lasting wrap that will maintain its appearance over time. It’s also important to choose a provider that offers warranties on their materials, so you have peace of mind in case of any issues.

5. Installation Process

The installation process of a vehicle wrap is just as important as the design and materials.

  • Are their installers trained and experienced in wrapping vehicles?
  • Do they follow proper techniques and use professional tools?

Improper installation can lead to bubbling, peeling, and an overall unsatisfactory look for your wrap. Make sure the provider has a team of skilled installers who will take care of your vehicle with precision and care.

6. Turnaround Time

If you want a vehicle wrap for your business, time is of the essence. You want a provider that can deliver a high-quality wrap in a timely manner.

  • How long does their process take from design to installation?
  • Do they have multiple installers to ensure a quick turnaround time?

It’s important to consider the provider’s turnaround time when choosing a vehicle wrap service, especially if you have a deadline or event coming up.

The Top 6 Vehicle Wrapping Services in Washington DC

Washington DC has plenty of great services to offer, but here are some of the best at a glance:

  1. AP Graphics: Recommended for premium custom graphics catering to various vehicle types.
  2. Capital Wrappers: Optimal for direct and customized wrapping solutions for diverse vehicles.
  3. Capitol Shine – Arlington: Ideal for extensive auto services including wraps and detailing, particularly for luxury cars.
  4. RoadRunner: Suitable for a wide range of vehicle wrap needs, backed by experienced professionals.
  5. Sign X – Washington DC: A go-to for combined vehicle wrap and signage services.
  6. Wrapbeast: Great choice for comprehensive wrap services with available financing options.

Don’t worry — we’ll explore each one in more depth:

#1: AP Graphics

AP Graphics consists of a team of committed, 3M-certified vehicle wrap experts, boasting extensive experience in crafting custom graphics for a diverse range of vehicles, both for business and personal use.

Best For: Ideal for top-tier, dependable custom graphics that cater to a wide array of needs.

  • Pricing: AP Graphics provides custom quotes for an estimated cost of your vehicle wrap, typically ranging between $250 and $3,000.
  • Customer Reviews: “AP Graphics provided outstanding service from start to finish. Faced with rebranding of our entire company meant that our fleet of 36 vehicles had to be stripped and rebranded, quickly. Their talent, professionalism and kindness made working with them a pleasure. Five stars! Thank you!” — Kim Popowski, Marketing Director, PBI
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: AP Graphics assures quality with a two-year warranty covering issues such as bubbling and peeling.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: (866) 390-6790
    • Location: 5397 Enterprise St, Sykesville, MD 21784

Portfolio:

#2: Capital Wrappers

Founded in 2015, Capital Wrappers is a notable service in the Washington, DC area, focusing more on car restyling than detailing.

Best For: Ideal for straightforward, custom car wraps across a wide range of vehicles.

  • Pricing: Quotes for pricing are available upon request from the company.
  • Customer Reviews: Having recently purchased a new car, I searched around my home area and couldn’t find anyone who does vinyl wrapping for anything but commercial vehicles. I finally found these folks after widening my search and I’m glad I did. They had a number of high-end cars in the shop when I dropped mine off, so I felt confident that they’d do a good job. — Mike S. (Hanover, US)
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: There are no specific guarantees mentioned on the Capital Wrappers website.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: (301) 417-5977
    • Location: 309 Howard Ave Ste C Rockville, MD 20850 United States

Portfolio:

#3: Capitol Shine – Arlington

Capitol Shine delivers a variety of automotive services, including thorough car washing and waxing. Benefit from complimentary estimates provided by skilled professionals.

Best For: A perfect choice for additional services like detailing, particularly for high-end vehicles.

  • Pricing: Complete vehicle wraps are priced between $2,500 and $10,000.
  • Customer Reviews: Outstanding service and quality! Each member of the team that I’ve ever interacted with has been a consummate professional and my car comes out looking better than ever each time. — Marilyn D. (VA, United States)
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: Capitol Shine primarily offers warranties with their extensive detailing services.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: (202) 894-6024
    • Location: 1310 N Courthouse Rd Arlington, VA 22201 United States

Portfolio:

#4: RoadRunner

RoadRunner is a key player in the DC vehicle wrap market, offering a comprehensive selection of vinyl wrap services.

Best For: Suited for general-purpose vehicle wraps, backed by an experienced team.

  • Pricing:
    • Partial wraps start at around $500.
    • Full wraps vary from $1,500 to $3,500.
  • Customer Reviews (only available for Beltsville location): Just had my logos put on the van at their shop in Beltsville. The whole process was pretty quick and easy. They worked with my logos and came up with the layout for me. I will be bringing my other work vans to them in the future. Nice work. Thanks guys — David L. (Greenbelt, MD).
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: RoadRunner provides warranties for both print and installation.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: 301-937-3777
    • Location: Kwik Signs 11215 Old Baltimore Pike, Beltsville, MD 20705

Portfolio:

#5: Sign X – Washington DC

Sign X, located in DC, offers comprehensive services in signage for offices and buildings, as well as commercial vehicle wraps.

Best For: Ideal for clients needing both vehicle wrapping and physical signage services.

  • Pricing: Custom pricing is available upon request.
  • Customer Reviews: Excellent service, accurate, fast, and great with communication. Reasonable prices, quality work. Totally recommend ! — Bruce Smith
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: No formal guarantees or warranties are provided.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: 202-854-1453
    • Location: 1101 30th St NW Suite ,500, Washington, DC 20007

Portfolio:

#6: Wrapbeast

Wrapbeast, a certified provider for vehicle tint and wraps, offers online scheduling and financing options for more comprehensive services.

Best For: Ideal for a full range of services with accessible financing for vehicle wraps.

  • Pricing: Full vehicle PPFs are priced above $5,500, likely similar for vinyl wraps.
  • Customer Reviews: These guys did a pretty solid job wrapping my zl1 hood and roof. Very timely, solid job. Only thing that bummed me out a little was that I was charged an extra $100 to remove some wrap off my roof. If I would’ve known, I would’ve just done it myself in advance. Probably more of my fault though, I won’t knock them. I’d recommend! — David W. (Manassas, US)
  • Warranty & Service Guarantees: Wrapbeast does not provide warranties on installations using aftermarket products.
  • Location & Contact Info:
    • Phone number: (301) 747-4691
    • Location: 7407 Livingston Rd Ste 101 Oxon Hill, MD 20745 United States

Portfolio:

A DIY Vehicle Wrapping Guide

Full disclosure: vehicle wrapping can be a complex, technical process that’s hard to do without the right expertise and equipment. But for those who are willing to put in the time and effort, DIY vehicle wrapping is certainly possible. Here are some key steps to consider when attempting a DIY wrap:

  1. Clean your vehicle thoroughly: Before starting any wrapping process, it’s crucial to clean your vehicle meticulously. This will ensure that there’s no dirt or debris on the surface that could affect the adhesion of the wrap.
  2. Measure and cut your vinyl: Using a measuring tape, measure the dimensions of the area you want to wrap on your vehicle. Then, using a sharp knife or scissors, carefully cut your vinyl to fit those dimensions.
  3. Apply adhesive promoter: This step is important for ensuring proper adhesion of the vinyl to your vehicle’s surface. You can purchase adhesive promoter from most vehicle wrap suppliers.
  4. Start wrapping: Begin by applying the vinyl to the center of the desired area and smoothing it out with your hands. Use a squeegee to remove any air bubbles and ensure a smooth, even application.
  5. Trim excess vinyl: Once you’ve covered the entire area, use a sharp knife or scissors to trim off any excess vinyl. This will give your wrap a clean, professional look.
  6. Heat and stretch the vinyl: To ensure maximum adhesion, use a heat gun to gently heat up the vinyl and then stretch it out over the curves and edges of your vehicle.
  7. Seal edges: Once the vinyl is properly applied, seal the edges with a sealant or edge sealer to prevent any lifting or peeling.
  8. Allow for curing time: It’s important to give your wrap at least 24 hours to fully cure before exposing it to any extreme weather conditions or washing it.
  9. Maintain and care for your wrap: To ensure the longevity of your DIY vehicle wrap, make sure to wash it regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
  10. Remove the wrap: When it’s time to remove your DIY vehicle wrap, use a heat gun to gently warm up the vinyl and then peel it off slowly. Any leftover adhesive residue can be removed with rubbing alcohol or adhesive remover.

Additional Tips:

  • If you’re new to vehicle wrapping, it may be helpful to practice on a smaller, less visible area of your vehicle first.
  • Make sure to properly clean and prep your vehicle’s surface before applying the vinyl for best adhesion.
  • Choose high-quality vinyl material for better durability and longevity.
  • If you’re unsure about a specific step or technique, consult with a professional vehicle wrapper for guidance.
  • Keep in mind that different types of vinyl may require different application techniques, so always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
  • If you’re wrapping a larger surface area, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member to make things easier and more efficient.
  • Regularly inspect your DIY vehicle wrap for any signs of lifting or peeling and address them promptly to prevent further damage.

If that seems like a lot — it certainly can be. Consulting with 3M-certified experts like the ones here at AP Graphics can make a big difference in making the job easier, and help to ensure that your wrap is as beautiful and flawless as possible.

But if you’re up for the challenge of wrapping your own vehicle, these tips should help guide you through the process. Just remember to take your time, be patient, and pay attention to detail for best results.

Alternatives to Vehicle Wrapping

Vehicle wrapping isn’t the only way to achieve your customization goals:

Magnetic Signs

  • How they work: Magnetic signs are removable signs that can be easily attached and detached from the vehicle’s metal surface.
  • When to use: Select magnetic signs if you need a temporary or interchangeable branding solution. They are ideal for personal vehicles used for business purposes where permanent branding isn’t desirable.

Decals and Stickers

  • How they work: Decals and stickers are smaller than full wraps and can be applied to specific areas of the vehicle.
  • When to use: Opt for decals if you require minimal branding or if you want to display specific information like a logo, website, or contact details. They are also a good choice for businesses with a limited budget.

Paint Jobs

  • How they work: Custom paint jobs involve permanently altering the vehicle’s exterior with paint.
  • When to use: Choose a custom paint job for a long-lasting and highly durable solution. It’s ideal for individuals or businesses who are committed to a permanent design and are willing to invest in a more expensive option.

Window Graphics

  • How they work: These are graphics applied to the vehicle’s windows using perforated vinyl, allowing for visibility from the inside.
  • When to use: Window graphics are suitable when you want to utilize window space without impacting driver visibility. They are great for additional branding without covering the entire vehicle.

Vehicle Lettering

  • How they work: This involves applying cut-out letters and numbers directly onto the vehicle.
  • When to use: Vehicle lettering is a good choice for a simple, professional look that focuses on conveying information like business name, services, and contact details.

Partial Wraps

  • How they work: Partial wraps cover only a portion of the vehicle, unlike full wraps.
  • When to use: Select partial wraps when you want to combine the impact of a wrap with the cost-effectiveness of smaller graphics. They are perfect for highlighting specific areas of the vehicle.

Vehicle Advertising Panels

  • How they work: These are custom-made panels that can be attached to the sides of commercial vehicles, like buses and large trucks.
  • When to use: Use advertising panels for large commercial vehicles where full wraps may be impractical or too costly. They are also easier to update or replace.

Elevate Your Vehicle With A Wrap From AP Graphics

Vehicle wraps are an excellent way to elevate your brand’s visibility and make a lasting impression on potential customers. With various options available, you can choose the perfect style that fits your budget and needs.

In this guide, we’ve covered:

  • Criteria for Choosing Vehicle Wraps: Evaluate experience, portfolio, customization, material quality, installation, and turnaround time.
  • DIY Wrapping Guide: Vehicle wrapping can be a tricky technical process, so only do this if you’re confident.
  • Wrapping Alternatives: Options include magnetic signs, decals, paint jobs, window graphics, lettering, partial wraps, and advertising panels.

At AP Graphics, we specialize in creating high-quality vehicle wraps that are sure to turn heads wherever you go. Our expert team will work with you every step of the way, from design to installation, to ensure your vision is brought to life.