CHF 35.- setup — machine setup, file handling and proof approval included
Magnetic signs let you remove vehicle branding whenever you need to, without a workshop visit. Seasonal campaigns, roadshows, rental vehicles or a temporary brand message: magnetic sheeting can be a practical choice when the graphics should not be permanent. This guide explains what it can do, where its limitations lie and which uses make sense.
When magnetic signs make sense
- Seasonal campaigns: A summer promotion, a Christmas delivery tour or asparagus season at a farm shop. Fit the signs at the beginning and remove them at the end, without a workshop appointment.
- Roadshow vehicles: Changing sponsors or campaigns. Magnetic signs can be swapped more quickly than adhesive printed graphics.
- Rental vehicles: Branding for a vehicle rented for a week or a month. Where adhesive graphics are not allowed, removable magnets may be an option. Check the rental agreement and obtain the owner’s approval first.
- Short campaigns on a private car: Use your own car temporarily for advertising without committing to permanent graphics.
- Testing a branding concept: Before permanently branding six delivery vans, try a magnetic sign for a month and gather feedback.
- Changing sponsors: A club vehicle with a different main sponsor each season. Magnetic signs make the changeover straightforward.
If the branding is intended to stay for five years or more, cut vinyl may be more economical: the more involved fitting is offset by a longer service life. For the wider choice of methods, see our vehicle graphics guide.
How magnetic sheeting works
Magnetic sheeting has two main layers: a magnetic layer, often magnetized strontium ferrite particles in a flexible polymer, and an upper surface that can be printed or covered with printed vinyl. The magnetic layer adheres to suitable steel body panels, as found on many cars, vans and trucks.
No adhesive is needed. The sign holds through magnetic attraction and can be lifted away again without leaving adhesive residue on the paintwork.
Thicknesses and material grades
- 0.5 mm magnetic sheeting: A thin, lightweight option. Use it on a moving vehicle only if the specific material is approved for that application; thickness alone does not establish suitability.
- 0.7 mm magnetic sheeting: A common thickness for advertising signs. Suitability for the vehicle, panel and driving conditions still needs to be checked against the material specifications.
- 0.85 mm magnetic sheeting: A thicker option. It can offer different holding characteristics, but it is not automatically safe at higher speeds or in strong winds.
- 1.0 mm magnetic sheeting: A thicker material for specific applications. Suitability for vibration or demanding vehicle use requires the manufacturer’s approval, not just a thickness measurement.
The design can be printed directly onto the magnetic sheet using a suitable process, or applied on a layer of printed vinyl. We often recommend the latter for the print finish, with the magnetic sheet acting as the carrier.
Choosing for different uses
| Use case | Sheet thickness | Size | Service life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seasonal campaign, 3 to 6 months | 0.7 mm as a starting point, subject to approval | A2 or A3 per sign | Reusable while in good condition |
| Rental vehicle, 1 to 4 weeks | 0.5 or 0.7 mm only if approved for vehicle use | A3 for easy fitting | Reusable while in good condition |
| Roadshow or event vehicle | 0.85 mm as an option, suitability to be checked | A2 or larger, subject to panel size | Reusable while in good condition |
| Sports club sponsorship | 0.7 mm as a starting point, subject to approval | A3 or smaller signs | Several seasons, depending on condition |
| Temporary branding on a private car | 0.7 mm as a starting point, subject to approval | A2 or smaller | Reusable while in good condition |
| Construction-site truck signage | 1.0 mm only if suitable for the application | Size and layout assessed for the vehicle | Inspect regularly; reuse only if suitable |
These thicknesses and formats are orientation points, not safety approvals. Magnetic signs can be reused over several seasons with suitable care. The printed surface, edges and magnetic carrier all age; there is no unlimited service-life guarantee. Actual durability depends on the material, printing system, weather and storage.
Fitting and removing magnetic signs
Fitting a magnetic sign is usually simpler than applying cut or printed adhesive vinyl. No specialist tools are normally needed. Follow the instructions supplied for the actual material and these five basic steps:
- Clean the body panel: Wash the vehicle, clean the fitting area and dry it completely. Also check that the back of the sign is clean and dry. Grit trapped underneath can scratch the paint.
- Position the sign: Place it against a suitable panel and check the alignment. To reposition it, lift it off and place it again rather than sliding it over the paintwork.
- Ensure full contact: Smooth it from the center outwards so the whole sign lies flat without air pockets or lifted edges. Large signs are easier to handle with two people.
- Avoid openings and panel gaps: Do not bridge air intakes, fuel flaps, door gaps, ridges or strongly curved areas. Edges that do not lie flat can catch the airflow and lift.
- Check before driving: Confirm the material’s approval and operating limits, and inspect the fit before each journey. A slow test drive is not proof that a sign is safe at higher speed. Do not drive with a loose, damaged or lifted sign.
To remove it, lift one edge and peel it away carefully. Clean and dry both the panel and the sign. No adhesive residue remains, but that does not rule out paint marks or damage caused by trapped dirt, moisture or an unsuitable paint finish.
Limitations: aluminium, speed and prolonged use
- Not for aluminium panels: Many modern vehicles use a mixture of body materials. The brand or model name alone is not enough: check the actual panel on which the sign will sit.
- Not for carbon composite: Magnetic sheeting does not adhere to carbon-fiber bodywork or plastic panels. This matters particularly on sports cars and mixed-material bodies.
- Driving speed: There is no universal safe speed based on sheet thickness. Airflow, sign size, panel shape, condition and holding force all matter. Follow the specific material’s limits; if they are unknown or the use is unsuitable, choose an appropriate adhesive graphic instead.
- Prolonged use: Dirt and moisture can collect beneath a sign left in the same place. Remove it regularly, clean and dry both surfaces, and inspect the paint. Follow the manufacturer’s care interval; do not assume that leaving it untouched for weeks is safe.
- Frost and wet bodywork: Trapped water can freeze and affect the sign or paintwork. Fit only to a clean, dry, suitable surface and follow the material’s temperature limits.
Care and storage
- Cleaning: After removal, clean the sign with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid aggressive cleaners and solvents that could damage the print or carrier. Dry it before refitting or storing.
- Storage: Store flat without folds. For longer storage, use a suitable separator between signs if recommended for the material, so the surfaces remain clean and protected.
- Temperature: Avoid extreme heat and cold, and follow the manufacturer’s storage range. A dry indoor workshop or office is generally more suitable than a hot or freezing vehicle.
- Stacking: Keep the signs flat and do not place heavy objects on top, as pressure or distortion can prevent them lying properly against the vehicle later.
With appropriate care and storage, magnetic signs can be used for several seasons. Inspect the carrier, edges and printed surface before reuse. Replace a sign that is damaged, distorted or no longer makes full contact, even if the print still looks good.
Workshop example: a seasonal campaign
The original German guide describes a farm shop that wanted temporary advertising on its normally unbranded delivery vehicle for asparagus season: “Fresh asparagus from the farm, every Thursday”. The campaign would last six weeks, after which the signs would be removed.
The example used 0.7 mm magnetic sheeting with applied printed vinyl, a large asparagus image and the seasonal message. A2 signs were used on the sides and A3 on the rear, five signs in total. The reported lead time was one week after artwork approval. This describes that example, not a general material approval or current delivery promise.
According to the account, the signs were removed at the end of the season, stored flat and reused in later seasons without visible print deterioration. The result illustrates the appeal of reusable seasonal graphics; service life and suitability still need to be checked for each vehicle and material.
Frequently asked questions
Do magnetic signs work on every vehicle?
No. They require a suitable ferromagnetic body panel, usually steel. They do not adhere to aluminium, carbon composite or plastic. Many vehicles use several materials, so we check the actual mounting area rather than relying on the brand name.
At what speed can a magnetic sign come off?
There is no universal threshold. Thickness alone cannot guarantee that a sign will remain attached at 130 or 150 km/h. Use only material approved for the intended application and follow its fitting instructions and speed limits. If these are unknown or unsuitable, use an appropriate adhesive alternative.
How long do magnetic signs last?
Several seasons may be possible with suitable material, care and storage. The magnetic carrier and printed surface both need regular inspection. Durability depends on the actual product and exposure; it is not unlimited.
Can magnetic signs leave marks on the paint?
They leave no adhesive residue. However, dirt, trapped moisture, prolonged contact or an unsuitable paint finish can cause marks or damage. Remove, clean and dry the sign and panel regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can I fit the magnetic signs myself?
Yes, usually. We supply cut-to-size signs with fitting instructions. First check the panel and make sure the whole sign lies flat, with no lifted edges, gaps or dirt underneath.
How much does magnetic vehicle branding cost?
It depends on the dimensions, number of signs, material and print requirements. Send us the vehicle model, intended use and artwork for a quote. We confirm the current price and any setup costs for your configuration.
Are magnetic signs weather-resistant?
Vehicle-grade magnetic sheeting with a suitable print and protective finish is intended for outdoor use within its specifications. Fit it only to a clean, dry surface, inspect it regularly and respect the manufacturer’s weather and temperature limits.
Can I reorder the same design?
Yes, we archive the artwork. For a repeat order, we check the available material, required dimensions, current lead time and any applicable setup costs. These are confirmed in the quote.
Magnetic signs for a seasonal campaign or rental vehicle?
Send us the vehicle model, desired dimensions and logo. We usually reply the same day with a mockup suggestion and an indicative unit-price range, after checking the intended mounting area.
Note: This guide was created in Fabrik4 Lab from workshop experience and editorial review. The instructions and approval for the specific magnetic material and vehicle take precedence.
