Stickers on new vs used vehicles: the surface decides
Stickers on new vs used vehicles can last the same time if the surface is prepared correctly. The material and print set the lifespan: up to 5 years on original 3M, up to 3 years on ORAFOL. What differs is preparation. Used vehicles may carry old adhesive, wax or recent paintwork that must be dealt with first.
The problem: blaming the vehicle’s age
When stickers lift on an older van, the age of the vehicle is often blamed. In practice, the usual causes are a surface that was not cleaned properly, residue from earlier stickers, or a print not made for outdoor use. Most fleet stickers in Riyadh burn and peel within 8–12 months for that last reason alone.
What we check on each type
| Check | New vehicle | Used vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Wax or polish | Sometimes applied by the dealer | Often from car washes |
| Old stickers or adhesive | Rare | Common, must be removed |
| Recent paintwork | Rare | Possible after repairs, must be reported |
| Dents and rough panels | Rare | Affects layout and how the sticker sits |
Why we inspect before quoting
Inspection tells us what preparation each vehicle needs, and lets us measure the area. Pricing is per square metre and material, so the same model can have very different quotes depending on coverage.
Talk to us. Send us your vehicle count and how long they will stay in service, and we will send a 5-year cost comparison based on your own fleet numbers.
From preparation to delivery: how we brand a fleet · Al Omari Agency on YouTube
When something goes wrong anyway
Qissat Al Gharb has 10 vans with ORAFOL stickers. Two vans peeled because of a mistake on our side, and the sticker on a third was removed. We redid all three at our cost, without argument. The written warranty, 16 months on ORAFOL, covers peeling and burning regardless of the vehicle’s age. Their procurement manager later came back to us from his new company.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth branding an older vehicle?
If it will stay in service with your branding for several years, yes. Match the material to its remaining service life: 3M up to 5 years, ORAFOL up to 3.
Should a new vehicle wait before stickers are applied?
Tell us the delivery date and any dealer treatments. We confirm readiness during inspection.
