As the automotive industry continues its steady return to normalcy, the supply chain is still relatively fragile. So, manufacturers at every step of the chain must be proactive about protecting their inventory from damages, particularly when transporting pieces from point A to point B. Since bodywork costs have risen more than any other type of car repair, even something as simple as scratched paint can be a huge problem.
So, with that in mind, let's break down the best way to protect car paint during shipping. Knowing the right options can reduce repairs and ensure your inventory always arrives in pristine condition.
Why is Car Paint Protection Important During Shipping?
The paint is the first thing consumers see when looking at a new car, and it's also one of the most expensive repair options. Part of the problem is that even minor damage can be more expensive than you might think. So, while it might seem like just a few scuffs or scratches, the bodywork bill may cut into your profit margin substantially.
So, when shipping hundreds or thousands of cars and parts, small repairs can add up quickly. If something happens en route and an entire shipment gets damaged, you're on the hook for repairing or replacing those components. Not only can the repair costs skyrocket quickly, but you also have to factor in the downtime required to get those parts back to 100 percent.
Making things more complicated is the fact that paint can get damaged at any point within the supply chain. From the manufacturing floor to the dealership lot, there are many points of contact where paint can get scratched, scuffed, or peeled off. So, you must be proactive about protecting it.
Comparing Different Paint Protections for Cars
Fortunately, multiple car paint protection options exist, so you can choose the one that works best for your unique needs and budget. Let's break down the top three methods.
Transport Wrapping
A transport wrap is exactly what it sounds like. Before shipping a part or an entire vehicle, you wrap everything in disposable plastic. Having such a thick and sturdy barrier helps prevent paint damage during shipping, and your team simply removes the wrap once the part or vehicle is at its next destination.
The problem with this method is that it's wasteful and relatively expensive. Also, wrapping a car can take a while to do because you want to apply multiple layers to be safe. While this option might work for individual parts, it may be too cost-inefficient for entire vehicles.
Paint Protection Film
Instead of wrapping a specific part, paint protection film is designed to stay on top of the paint for a long time. Some varieties can last up to 10 years with minimal maintenance, while cheaper options may only last five years.
The primary benefit of car wheel paint protection film is that it stays on the vehicle at all times. So, no matter what happens during the shipping process, the paint should be protected from scuffs and scratches until it reaches the consumer. Even then, the customer can take advantage of the film until it's time to replace it.
Mud and Step Guards
This option mostly works if the vehicle will be driven before reaching the final dealership lot. Since mud and debris can ruin the underside of a vehicle, these guards can keep the paint looking fresh. However, these guards don't protect the rest of the car, so they're very limited in how well they work.
Which is the Best Paint Protection for Cars?
Realistically, paint protection film (PPF) is the best option because it's easy to apply and protects the paint at all times. Unlike a wrap that must be removed, the film is always working, day and night. This way, dealerships can still prevent accidental damage once the car is on the lot and before it's sold to a customer. Better yet, these films are affordable when purchased in bulk, and they're virtually invisible.
That said, cheaper varieties may start to turn yellow over time, so we recommend investing in higher-quality film that stays optically clear for its entire lifespan.
Contact LINTEC Automotive for PPF Today
Don't wait until disaster strikes to recognize the benefits of car paint protection film. Preventative measures may cost more upfront, but they can save a lot of time and money on repairs later on. LINTEC of America has multiple film materials to suit your budget, so contact us today to find out more.
