How Much Material Do I Need

How Much Material Do I Need to Wrap My Vehicle? (Let’s Make It Simple)

So you’re getting ready to wrap your car—brilliant. It’s a fun project that can totally change the look of your vehicle. But here’s a question most people ask right away:

“How much vinyl wrap do I actually need?”

Great question! And don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything clearly so you can feel confident and avoid any frustrating surprises.

 

First, What Type of Vehicle Are You Wrapping?

Not all vehicles are created equal. The size and shape of your car matters when figuring out how much material you’ll need. Let’s break it down into three main types:

Small Cars (like a Fiat 500, Mini Cooper, VW Polo)

Recommended wrap size: About 15 to 18 metres of vinyl (usually 1.52m wide)

These cars are compact, so you won’t need as much vinyl. If this is your first wrap job, a smaller car is a great place to start!

Medium Cars (like a Ford Focus, VW Golf, Audi A3)

Recommended wrap size: Around 18 to 22 metres

Slightly more surface area, and more curves, doors, and trim to consider.

Large Cars & SUVs (like a Range Rover, BMW X5, Mercedes GLC)

Recommended wrap size: Between 22 to 25 metres

Bigger body panels, taller vehicles, and sometimes more complex shapes like spoilers or roof racks.

Vans or Commercial Vehicles

Recommended wrap size: Could be 25–30+ metres, depending on size and coverage

These vehicles can be tricky, but they offer more space for branding and creativity.

Add a Little Extra

Even professionals add an extra 10% to 15% when they order vinyl. Why?

Mistakes may happen (especially on your first go)

Some shapes are tricky and need redoing

You might want to wrap mirrors, door handles, or inside door edges, too

 

Example:
If your car needs 20 metres of wrap, order 22 to 23 metres to be safe. It's better to have a bit too much than come up short halfway through a panel.