Issue link: https://nbm.uberflip.com/i/1451370
2 0 2 2 • WRAPS • 51 G R A PH I C S - PR O.C O M ing a non-PVC overlaminate to reduce or eliminate browning issues. For example, there isn't a signicant cost difference be- tween 3M 8518 and 3M 8548, but it will make the graphics last a lot longer. If the project is a full wrap, we'll often get an install guide showing the planned print panels. On a recent project for Wrapmate, we were quoting a full wrap on the cab of a tow truck. Most of the panels they had planned would work great, but we felt they needed to plan an additional panel for the sides of the hood to eliminate issues during the in- stallation that could lead to overstretch- ing and failure. Since we've done quite a few semi-truck cabs and tow truck wraps, we have a good idea of where problem areas will arise. Wrapmate's designer for the project gave me a call, and we talked through the installation and looked at how they could add the extra panels without hav- ing to do any reprinting on panels that were already printed. It was a good way for us to partner on the project, elimi- nating surprises and problems before- hand. YOUR ROLE Once an estimated project has been ap- proved, the ad agency will ship out the graphics, and the installation is sched- uled. Sometimes the installation sched- uling is done through the agency, and sometimes we contact the customer di- rectly to work out the schedule. When we receive the box of graphics, we lay the graphics out on the table and go through the proof to ensure every- thing is there. You don't want to nd out that something is missing on the day of the installation. If there is any damage during shipping, we'll take pictures and note the damage. Because graphics are so exible, we can typically x any issues with heat during the installation, but it's important to note them ahead of time. On the day of the installation, we do a quick overview of the vehicle before in- stallation writing down any pre-existing damage, obstacles that weren't previously mentioned and noting whether the ve- hicle came in washed. We also clarify any removal of emblems or pre-existing decals if it wasn't already mentioned. Since we didn't print the graphics and reprints are difcult, it's essential to dry- t the graphics ahead of time to ensure everything ts the vehicle as planned. In some cases, you'll have to simply make it work if there are small discrepancies. For example, if a fender wrap comes up a cou- ple of inches short, plan ahead and relieve some tension over the wheel and stretch the graphics a bit. It's easy to make up these minor shortages if you plan ahead. Upon completion of the installation, it's important to follow the agency's di- rections on what they need from you to nalize the project. Photos of all sides of the vehicle, VIN photos if there are multiple vehicles, customer signature on the paperwork, and any documentation of the damage to the vehicle before in- stallation are some of the required items that may be requested. Be sure you read through their paperwork ahead of time so you don't miss anything before the customer picks up the vehicle. Most graphics arrive in a tightly wound roll, so it's important to lay them out, check for damage, cut down spot graphics, and roll and label panels for installation. Since the graphics are provided and reprinting would be difficult, it's important to double-check the placement of tight panels and remove any obstacles that could cause issues.