For small service businesses like landscaping, construction, or plumbing, marketing can be a puzzle.
You don’t have a massive marketing budget, but you still need to drive business and make sure people know who you are and what you do.
The solution could be staring you in the face—your work truck. Let’s take a look at how smart service businesses are using “parketing” to increase their name recognition and drive business.
What is parketing?
"Parketing" is a clever word for a simple idea: you turn your work truck, van, or trailer into a billboard. Get a vehicle wrap with your company’s name, logo, and maybe a catchy slogan or your contact info, and then you park that vehicle in spots where a lot of people will see it. You’re already parking your truck somewhere. Now you can make that truck work even when it’s idle.
Why parketing works
1. It’s easy on the wallet
Let’s be honest, advertising can be expensive. Billboards, radio ads, or even online ads can eat up a good chunk of your budget. But with parketing, once you’ve paid to wrap your vehicle, there’s not much else to spend. You’ve got a rolling ad that works for you day in and day out without any extra costs. You park it in different places, and it’s like you’ve got a new ad spot each time, without paying a dime more.
2. It gets noticed
A well-designed vehicle wrap is hard to miss, especially when you park it in the right spots. Whether you’re on a busy street, near a job site, or parked at a big event, people are going to see your truck. If the design is bold and clear, it’ll stick in their minds. They’ll remember your company the next time they need the services you offer.
3. You can put it where your prospects are
One of the best things about parketing is that it’s not stuck in one place. You can park your vehicle in different locations to hit different crowds. Maybe you park it near a popular hardware store on the weekends, or by a busy intersection during the week. The flexibility lets you target the right people at the right times, without having to commit to one spot.
4. It’s a great form of local advertising
If your business relies on local customers, parketing is a no-brainer. You’re putting your name right in front of the people who are most likely to need your services. By parking your vehicle in neighborhoods you want to work in, you’re directly reaching potential customers. It’s like putting a business card in every mailbox on the block, but without the paper.
5. It builds name recognition and trust
People trust what they see regularly. If your truck or van is out there every day with your name on it, people start to recognize it. Over time, that familiarity builds trust. They see you’re a real, local business, not some fly-by-night operation. And when they need a job done, they’re more likely to call someone they’ve seen around.
4 rules for great parketing
If you’re ready to give parketing a shot, here’s how to make sure it does the job:
1. Don’t skimp on the wrap
Your vehicle wrap needs to look professional and grab attention. Spend a little extra to get vehicle wrap advertising done right. When you see a local business with a great wrap, ask where they got it done and who designed it. Make sure your company name is big and clear, with a phone number or website that’s easy to read. Use bright colors that stand out, but keep it simple—too much info or fancy graphics can be distracting.
This YouTube video by the Contractor Growth Network has some great pointers on truck wrap do’s and don’ts.
2. Park smart
Where you park your vehicle matters. In suburban areas, find a high traffic spot to park after you unload. It’s worth walking a block or two to position your truck near a neighborhood’s entrance. Find spots where a lot of people will see it, like busy streets, near shopping centers, or at local events. Think about where your customers are likely to be. If you’re a landscaper, for example, parking near a garden center or home improvement store can be a great move.
3. Keep it moving
Even though the idea is to park your vehicle, don’t let it sit in one place for too long. Move it around to different spots throughout the week. This way, you reach more people, and it doesn’t just blend into the background. Plus, it keeps your marketing fresh and in front of new eyes all the time.
4. Use social media
Take photos of your wrapped vehicle and post them on social media. Let people know where you’ll be parking, and maybe even run a contest or giveaway for people who spot your vehicle and snap a photo. It’s an easy way to get even more eyes on your brand, both in person and online.
How much does it cost to wrap your truck?
The price of wrapping a truck can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size of your vehicle, the type of wrap material, the complexity of the design, and whether you opt for a full or partial wrap.
Full wraps
A full truck wrap, which covers the entire vehicle, typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000. The size of the truck and the intricacy of the design can push the cost toward the higher end of this range. For example, a large truck with a complex, multi-colored design will be more expensive to wrap than a smaller vehicle with a simpler design.
Partial wraps
If you're looking to save some money, a partial wrap might be a better option. This type of wrap usually covers key areas like the sides and back of the truck and costs between $1,000 and $2,500. Although it offers less surface area for branding, it can still be highly effective when designed strategically.
Material choices
The type of vinyl you choose also affects the cost. For instance, a gloss wrap might range from $1,500 to $4,000, while a chrome wrap, known for its eye-catching, mirror-like finish, can cost between $4,000 and $8,000. Matte wraps, which offer a sleek, non-reflective finish, generally fall between $2,000 and $4,500. Custom designs, which allow you to create a unique look for your business, can range anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the design and the quality of the materials used.
Additional costs
Beyond the basic wrap costs, there are other expenses to consider. If your truck already has a wrap that needs removal, this service can add to your overall cost. Additionally, investing in professional design services is recommended if you want a custom design that effectively represents your brand. Maintenance and potential repairs for the wrap over time should also be factored into your budget, as exposure to the elements can cause wear and tear that might require touch-ups.
Investing in a truck wrap is more than just a financial decision; it's a strategic marketing move that can pay off in the long run by increasing brand visibility and leaving a lasting impression on your community. By understanding the costs involved and planning accordingly, you can ensure that your truck wrap not only fits your budget but also delivers the impact your business needs.
