What Should I Do With Fleet Decals When a Vehicle Is Reassigned?

Common Questions About Fleet Decals and Vehicle Reassignment

What's the best way to remove old fleet decals before reassigning a vehicle?

Warm the decal with a heat gun or hair dryer on a low setting, then lift one corner and peel slowly at a low angle, close to parallel with the vehicle surface. Remove leftover adhesive with an automotive-safe adhesive remover or isopropyl alcohol, then wash and dry the area. Always test a small section first, especially on older paint, clear coat, or existing wraps. For a full walkthrough, see our step-by-step video on how to remove a decal. 

Should I order removable or permanent vinyl if vehicles get reassigned often?

Fleet decals are made with a permanent, high-tack adhesive so they hold up to weather, highway speeds, and car washes, but that does not mean they are difficult to change. For graphics that change with every reassignment, such as names, unit numbers, and department logos, calendered vinyl is the practical choice. It is rated for 3 to 5 years outdoors and removes cleanly with heat when it is replaced within its rated life. Reserve long-life materials for branding that never changes. If you only need temporary information on glass, such as a loaner vehicle ID or a short-term route number, window clings made from low-tack vinyl peel off without residue. 

Do I need a fleet decal reassignment form or tracking template?

A tracking template is not legally required, but it saves significant time for any fleet larger than a few vehicles. Most fleet managers log the vehicle ID, decal type, size, material, install date, and reassignment date in a shared spreadsheet. Pair each entry with the saved artwork file and approved proof for that decal so reorders match the original exactly. 

Are there state rules I need to follow when changing fleet vehicle decals in California or elsewhere?

Yes, depending on your industry and how your vehicles operate. Under federal rule 49 CFR 390.21, commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce must display the carrier's legal name or a single trade name and its USDOT number on both sides of the vehicle in a contrasting color, legible from 50 feet in daylight. Many states, including California, enforce additional carrier identification and intrastate marking rules, and passenger transport, waste hauling, and hazmat fleets often have their own requirements. If a reassignment moves a vehicle to a different operating entity, update its USDOT decals before it returns to service. Confirm current requirements with the FMCSA and your state's transportation or motor carrier agency. 

How much do replacement fleet decals cost per vehicle?

Cost depends on size, material, cut style, and quantity. A single unit number or driver name decal is a small expense, while a complete set with logos, contact details, and compliance markings costs more. Per-unit pricing drops as quantity increases, so reassigning a full fleet segment at once is usually more cost-effective than reordering one vehicle at a time. 

How fast can I get new decals produced after a reassignment?

Standard production at Decals.com is 3 business days. Priority production finishes in 1 business day, Express in 2 business days, and the 5 business day Saver option lowers cost when reassignments are planned in advance. Production time and shipping time are separate, so review production times and shipping options when you schedule the handoff. Most ground shipments arrive within 2 to 4 business days after production. 

Can I reuse the old decal design or do I need new artwork every time?

If only the unit number or driver name changes, you need a small file update, not a full redesign. If the vehicle is moving to a department or business unit with different branding, you need new artwork. Keeping the original proof on file keeps sizing, colors, fonts, and placement consistent across the fleet.