A car that is being used to make money.

Car Wrap Advertising: How to Earn Money Just by Driving in PDX

Have you ever seen cars driving around Portland with colorful ads on them? Those are called car wraps. And guess what? The people driving those cars are making money – just by driving!

Portland has several opportunities for this kind of advertising. Local businesses want to spread the word about their services, and they’re using car wraps to do it. If you live in Portland and drive a car, this could be a great chance for you to earn some extra cash without much effort. Imagine getting paid just for driving to work, the grocery store, or your favorite hangout spot!

Let’s dive into how this all works.


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Icon of a car.

Car Wrap Gigs

Get paid to turn your car into a mobile advertisement.

Carvertise

Earn money with car wraps by advertising for brands. They offer campaigns for drivers with various types of vehicles.

Wrapify

Earn passive income with car wraps by driving your own car. They offer different campaign options based on your driving habits.

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What is Car Wrap Advertising?

Car wrap advertising is pretty much what it sounds like. Businesses pay to have their advertisements printed on large vinyl stickers. These stickers, or “wraps,” are then carefully placed onto cars, turning them into moving billboards.

At its core, car wrap advertising is a win-win for both drivers and businesses. For businesses, it’s a unique way to get their message out there. Instead of a stationary billboard that people might pass now and then, a car wrap moves around, catching eyes all over the city. For drivers, it’s a chance to make some money just by doing what they’d do anyway: drive!

Benefits of Car Wrap Advertising

Passive income stream

For drivers, the appeal is clear. Without changing anything about your daily routine, you can earn extra money. All because your car is showcasing an advertisement. Whether you’re stuck in traffic on 205 or lost in Ladd’s Addition, your car is making money for you.

Minimal effort

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of car wrap advertising is how easy it is. For drivers, there’s no sales pitch or delivery route. Just regular driving. And for businesses, once the wrap is on a car, there’s no ongoing maintenance or effort. It’s a simple, effective way to advertise and earn.

How to Get Started

Starting with car wrap advertising in Portland is simpler than you might think. But like any opportunity, there are steps to follow. Here’s a roadmap to guide you.

Eligibility criteria

Before you dive in, check if you and your car meet the necessary criteria. Many companies look for:

  • Cars in good condition (no major dents or paint issues).
  • A certain amount of driving each day (to ensure the ad gets enough visibility).
  • A clean driving record (they want safe drivers).

The application process

After you apply, the company will review your information. They might check:

  • Your driving habits (routes, hours).
  • Your car’s make, model, and condition.
  • Any past driving infractions.

If everything looks good, they’ll match you with a business. Then, it’s time to get your car wrapped. Most companies cover the cost of the wrap, and some even offer bonuses for getting started!

Remember, every company is different. It’s a good idea to read reviews, ask questions, and make sure you’re comfortable with the terms before you commit.

Tips for Maximizing Earnings

Earning with car wrap advertising is great, but what if you could earn even more? With a few strategies and tweaks, you might be able to boost your income from car wraps.

Commitment levels

Different wrap campaigns offer different levels of commitment, which can affect your earnings:

  • Full wraps: These cover your entire car and typically pay the most. They’re also the most visible, making them appealing for advertisers.
  • Partial wraps: These might only cover a door or the rear of the vehicle. They generally pay less than full wraps but are also less intrusive.

Deciding between full and partial wraps will depend on your comfort level and how much you want to earn.

Driving routes

Where you drive can influence how much you earn. Some tips:

  • High-visibility areas: Areas with more people or traffic can increase the number of eyes on your wrapped car.
  • Mileage: If your daily driving routine has lots of miles, advertisers may be willing to pay more.
  • Event venues and popular spots: Driving near places like the Moda Center during events or frequently visiting popular Portland locales like the Oregon Zoo can get your car noticed more. If this is part of your daily driving routine, companies may be willing to pay more to advertise on your car.

Maintaining your vehicle wrap

Your car wrap is an investment by the advertiser. To ensure it stays in good condition:

  • Wash your car by hand or use touchless car washes. Avoid automatic car washes with brushes that could damage the wrap. Above all, make sure to follow any directions from the wrap company on proper cleaning and maintenance.
  • Protect your car from prolonged sun exposure which can fade the wrap over time. Using a car cover or parking in shaded areas can help.
  • Regularly inspect the wrap for any damage or wear. If you notice issues, contact the wrap company promptly.

By being proactive and strategic, you can make the most out of car wrap advertising in Portland and boost your earnings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much money can I make with car wrap jobs?

The money you can make from car wrap jobs changes based on things like the company you’re with, the size of the ad, and how long you keep it on. But, many people make between $200 to $800 or even more every month. Some companies might pay you a set amount, while others might pay more if you drive a lot or if many people see the ad.

What do I need to do car wrap jobs?

To do car wrap jobs, you usually need a few things:

  • A valid driver’s license
  • No recent bad driving records
  • A car that fits what the ad company wants Some companies might also have special rules depending on the type of ad they want to show.

Can I pick the ads for my car?

Yes, you can! Most times, companies will give you some ad choices. You can pick the one you like. Depending on where you drive and how often, you might also get special ad choices.

How long will the ad be on my car?

How long the ad stays on your car can change. Some ads might be for a few weeks, while others could be for many months. The company will tell you how long it will be and how much they will pay before you start.

Do I have to pay any money to get started?

Good car wrap companies won’t make you pay to start. They’ll pay for the wrap and putting it on your car. But, be careful! Some bad companies might try to trick you into paying. Always check the company and see what other people say about them first.

Can I still use my car like normal with the wrap on?

Yes, you can! The ad is just a sticker on the outside of your car, so you can still drive like you always do. But, make sure to follow any rules the company gives to keep the ad looking good.

Do I have to pay taxes on the money I make?

Yes, you usually have to pay taxes on the money you make from car wraps. The ad company might give you a paper at the end of the year to help with your taxes. Remember to write down how much you make and any costs you have. It’s a good idea to talk to someone who knows about taxes to help.

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Next Steps

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