Magnetic Advertising Signs for Your Car

More Americans than ever are starting their own businesses, often operating them from their own homes. The biggest problem most of them face is getting the word out that they even exist. Many are solving this issue this by attaching inexpensive magnetic signs to advertise their business on the sides of their car.

Once in place, the magnetic car sign provides free advertising for your business wherever you go, and even while your car is sitting in your driveway at home. Sounds great doesn't it? It is great, in some respects, but there are drawbacks, too

Here are some advantages of using magnetic advertising sign on your car.

1. Magnetic advertising signs are inexpensive.

The original cost of a magnetic automobile sign is usually far less than a 5x7 display ad in your local newspaper. The newspaper ad may be seen by more people, but only once, while your magnetic sign goes on advertising for you day, after day, after day.

2. Magnetic advertising signs are easy to apply and to remove.

The magnetic sign is easy to remove in case you need to use your car for something where you might prefer not to advertise your business. For example, I once attended a graveside service where cars were parked on a road leading up to the gravesite. We all walked past a car sporting a magnetic sign that read, "We Book Cruises to Paradise."

Of course it elicited a few chuckles, but it might have been better to remove that one for the short time the service lasted.

3. Magnetic signs do increase business.

My husband and I own a small business. In our case, we have had a number of people stop by that had never even realized we existed until they saw out car sign. So, for that reason alone, car signs will bring you a good return for the money you invest in them.

A magnetic advertising sign is going to represent you to your customers, and you want the impression it makes to be a good one. Make a prototype on cardboard cut to the actual size your sign is going to be. Are the letters you have chosen large enough and readable from a distance? Are you trying to get too much information into too small a size? If so, cut out some of the information or plan on a larger size sign. Decide on a background color and a contrasting color for the letters. (A drive around town to look at the signs on other cars will help you make color choices-see what attracts you and what doesn't.)

And, while you are looking at other people's magnetic advertising signs you will notice that one of the biggest problems with the average sign is that they try to put too much on it. Include only essential information. Images are seldom necessary, but if you do include them, make them small and representative of your business.

4. A good quality magnetic advertising sign should last indefinitely.

Unless you decide the message is no longer appropriate, this is one advertising cost that doesn't repeat itself on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. (See below for more info on choosing a quality sign.)

And now for some disadvantages of using a magnetic advertising sign on your car.

1. Magnetic advertising signs may be too easily removed.

Unfortunately, magnetic advertising signs are not only easy for you, the owner to remove; they are also easy for others to remove. We had several signs stolen, probably by teens who thought they would make great souvenirs, or possibly even by competitors. You might also want to make sure your signs are removed before you go through an automatic car wash as they can be lost or damaged by the water pressure there.

2. If you are not very careful, you may end up with a poor quality sign.

Poor quality signs crack or peel after a short time, or scratch the paint on your car. Inspect any sign you plan to buy, carefully. Make sure the material is supple, bends easily, and that the magnetic parts are not just glued on with rough edges that can scratch your car.

3. Some business may not be appropriate for magnetic advertising signs.

If you have a business that might be embarrassing to family members, neighbors, or possibly even to you, your magnetic car sign may spend more time sitting in the garage than it does in advertising your business. If you would feel uncomfortable parking your car in the church parking lot with your magnetic sign on it, you should think very carefully before deciding to spread the word via your automobile.. (Actually, you might even want to consider getting into a different business, but that's your decision.)

If, after hearing some the advantages and disadvantages of using magnetic advertising signs, you do decide to try them, check out some of the links listed with this article just to get an idea of what is available and a ballpark figure of current prices. Then visit and buy from a local dealer if possible. When you can actually see what you are purchasing, you are much more likely to end up with a magnetic sign that will actually bring customers in.
Good luck in all your advertising endeavors.