posted February 12, 2009 02:31 PM
I am trying to figure out how much to charge for putting some large graphics right down the sides and front end of a Kenworth tractor/truck. Each side covers about 1' x 19' and then there are also 3 names (8" x 12" approx) and one set of initials (3" high) on each side. I'm hoping he'll go for printed vinyl (3M controltac), then just do the names in high performance vinyl. One side is pretty straight forward (just the door frame and a few rivets) the other side is much more complicated as far as application around obstructions. I really have no idea how much to charge... what do you think?
-------------------- Karen Stanley Signs & Wonders Amherst, VA Posts: 136 | From: Amherst, VA | Registered: Jan 2007
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posted February 12, 2009 07:35 PM
We have no idea as to what you are planning to put on this vehicle. A rough layout layered above a digital image would be a help.
One thing you can count on is that doing a tractor will take more time than you think it will, unless you have experience at it.
Controltac is the way to go, don't give him the option. My wild guess would be $1500.
-------------------- Curt Stenz Graphics 700 Squirrel Lane Marathon, WI 54448 Posts: 590 | From: Marathon, WI 54448 | Registered: Dec 1998
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posted February 12, 2009 08:30 PM
Oh I'm so glad I asked!!! Here's what he wants.... the graphic will be in purples and blues And NO I haven't done anything this ambitious yet, so wouldn't be that upset if he decides against it - or goes to the cheap fella down the road!
-------------------- Karen Stanley Signs & Wonders Amherst, VA Posts: 136 | From: Amherst, VA | Registered: Jan 2007
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posted February 12, 2009 08:50 PM
Hi Karen- First off, you might need to rethink the design a little where it goes from behind the door to the sleeper. That big of a transition is NOT going to look smooth with the swoop transitioning like that.
Second, It always takes a little longer for prep and positioning on a big rig. Funny how all those steps from point A to point B add up.
posted February 12, 2009 10:18 PM
I would figure out your material cost then what you would like to get paid. Off the top of my head, guessing the material (if it is control tac) would cost me from my wholesale digital printer approx. $195-$260. Then from there, what is dealing with the customer, designing it, trimming it, installing it and cleaning up after yourself worth to you? I'd say somewhere in the range of $ 300-$400 profit (after material cost)
posted February 13, 2009 01:01 AM
If it was me. I'd use regular Gerber HP 220 vinyl. It's a pretty simple job.$450.00+sales tax If the truck needs extra prep/cleaning go to $500 bucks.
-------------------- Signs by Alicia Jennings (Mudflap Girl) Tacoma, WA Since 1987 Have Lipstick, will travel. Posts: 3814 | From: Tacoma, WA. U.S.A. | Registered: Dec 1999
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posted February 13, 2009 07:37 AM
I'm with Alicia.
No real need for digital prints here since it's all solid colors. The real problem you'll run into is getting around the mirrors with that design and bending it onto the sleeper. The latter can be adjusted for by lengthening that one section 8-10 inches or s, and putting on the last little flip separately.
I'd charge $500 as long as it showed up ready to go. Cleaning and prepping takes time and time is money.
-------------------- Ray Rheaume Rapidfire Design 543 Brushwood Road North Haverhill, NH 03774 rapidfiredesign@hotmail.com 603-787-6803
I like my paint shaken, not stirred. Posts: 5648 | From: North Haverhill, New Hampshire | Registered: Apr 2003
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