Custom Car Badges, Emblems & Logos

Yes, we do offer quantity breaks! Here are some of the quantity breaks we offer:

100
250
500
750
1,000
2,500
5,000

Other price breaks may be available. Contact us for more info here.

Artwork for manufacturing purposes refers to the digital or physical design files that contain detailed specifications, images, and layouts required to produce a product, in this case custom metal car decals. These files include precise measurements, colors, shapes, and any other necessary design elements to ensure that the final product matches your intended design. Artwork files are crucial in processes such as printing, engraving, embossing, or any other form of manufacturing where accurate reproduction of a design is essential.

Common vector formats are .AI, .EPS, .SVG or at time PDF, because vectors can be scaled without losing quality, which is important for creating detailed and accurate products.

A vector file is a type of digital image that uses mathematical equations to create shapes, lines, and colors. Unlike regular images, which are made up of tiny dots (pixels), a vector file can be resized to any size without losing clarity or becoming blurry. This makes vector files ideal for logos, graphics, and designs that need to be scaled up or down, like custom badges or signs. Common formats for vector files include .AI (Adobe Illustrator), .EPS, PDF and .SVG.

Yes, we have a large array of stock dies that help reduce the price for you. If we don't have the exact size you are looking for, we can provide you with the closest sizes we have. Reach out to us to see how we may be able to help.

A font file is a digital file that contains all the characters of a specific typeface, including letters, numbers, symbols, and punctuation marks, designed in a particular style. These files are essential for displaying and printing text in various fonts on custom car badges and emblems. Common formats for font files include TrueType (TTF) and OpenType (OTF), which are compatible with most operating systems and software.

Font files can be found in several places:

Pre-installed on Operating Systems: Most devices come with a set of pre-installed fonts, such as those provided by Microsoft. These include popular fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, and Calibri, which can be used freely.

Online Font Libraries: Websites like Google Fonts, Adobe Fonts, and Dafont offer a wide variety of fonts that can be downloaded and used. Some of these fonts are free, while others require a license for commercial use.

Custom Font Design: Fonts can also be created or customized using font design software or by commissioning a designer.

It’s important to note that many fonts, especially those downloaded from online libraries, are subject to licensing agreements. While some fonts are free for personal use, commercial use may require purchasing a license. When using fonts outside of those offered by Microsoft, a font file will be required to ensure proper usage and compliance with licensing terms.

We have in-house designers that can help you design your car badges. However, since we are creating a design from scratch and the complexities it entails, there may be additional costs.

The minimum order quantity is primarily dependent on the material and manufacturing process being used. The minimum order quantity for most materials and processes is 100.

For smaller volume orders <100 we offer automotive grade acrylic, a durable option with limitations.

Sample Lead Time
If required, samples are produced in 2 weeks from the time we receive your artwork approval.

Mass Production Lead Time
Once the samples have been approved, mass production initiates and is completed in 3-4 weeks.

No Sample Required
If no samples are requested, mass production initiates immediately after your artwork approval and is completed in 3-4 weeks.

Rush Orders for Urgent Needs
We understand that sometimes you may have tighter deadlines. For these situations, rush mass production orders are available, which can be completed in just 2 -2.5 weeks from the time of artwork approval.

Due to the nature of the products we supply (custom badging) we are unable to provide refunds or returns after the initial order has been placed since our production department goes directly into production once the order has been confirmed. We'd like to help you in way possible and will only begin production once we have confirmed that you are happy with the expected outcome via our discussions, artwork, quotes, etc.

Custom metal emblems for cars are commonly manufactured using a different metals and plastic is also another option. Some of the more commonly utilized materials are:

• Aluminum - The most commonly used metal for any type of product branding badge.
• ABS - The most commonly used plastic for OEM purpose. For both interior and exterior.
• Acrylic - The most frequently utilized plastic for economical or low volume orders.
• Nickel - Only used for electroforming purpose, which is a premium branding process. Commonly used to brand high-end vehicles such as Bentely's.
  

Many other options are available. The material of choice is influenced by different factors. If you are not sure which material to use, reach out to us and we can help guide you to the best solution for your needs.

Trailblazer has the capacity to reproduce badges crafted by other companies, however we cannot reproduce badges that will infringe on the intellectual property of another company.

When designing, developing, and manufacturing custom badges, we are required to ensure that the artwork/designs used are legally owned or licensed. This is because copyright and trademark laws protect intellectual property (IP), which includes logos, symbols, images, and any other original creations. Unauthorized reproduction of these protected designs can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, lawsuits, and the potential for significant reputational damage to both us as the manufacturer and you the customer.

Copyright law protects the original expression of ideas, while trademarks protect symbols, names, and slogans used to identify goods or services. If you request the reproduction of a design that you do not own or have the proper licensing for, it could result in a violation of these laws.

For further reference, you can consult sources like the U.S. Copyright Office, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and legal firms specializing in IP law, which offer comprehensive insights into the complexities of copyright and trademark regulations.

Trademark
A form of intellectual property (IP) protection that applies to symbols, words, phrases, logos, or other distinctive marks used by a business to identify and distinguish its products or services from those of others. The primary purpose of a trademark is to prevent consumer confusion by ensuring that a particular mark or logo exclusively represents a specific brand or product. Trademarks are protected under the Lanham Act in the United States, which allows the owner of a trademark to prevent others from using a similar mark that could cause confusion among consumers. Unlike copyright, trademark protection can last indefinitely as long as the trademark is in continuous use and the owner renews the registration periodically. Trademarks can be checked through the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to protect against copyright infringement.

Copyright
A form of protection granted to original works of authorship, such as literary, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual works. Copyright protection automatically applies once an original work is created and fixed in a tangible medium, meaning that the work must be written, recorded, or otherwise documented in some permanent form. Unlike trademarks, copyrights do not protect ideas, procedures, or methods, but rather the specific expression of those ideas. The duration of copyright protection varies depending on the type of work and the date of creation, generally lasting for the life of the author plus 70 years for individual works, or 95 to 120 years for works made for hire or anonymous works. To ensure you are not infringing on the copyrights of others you can check this website here.

Here are some examples of items we cannot include on your custom badges due to copyright:

• Ford Logo
• Toyota
• Dodge
• Nike Logo
• Apple Logo
• Mercedes
• Lexus
• Adidas Logo
• Chevy

This is going to be dependent on the type of manufacturing method being used, but for most, there are no limitations.

An example of a manufacturing method that may have some limitations is electroforming. since it is typically utilized for smaller badging with costs rising dramatically the larger the item.

Adding color to car emblems can be done using different methods, however the more common methods include the following:

• Injected Paint
• Spray Paint
• Enamel (Hard Enamel * Soft Enamel)
• Screen Printing
• Digital Printing
• Offset Printing
• More!

Customizing your car with a new emblems is not only legal but also a great way to personalize your vehicle. One of the safest methods for removal without damaging your car's paint is the floss method. Here's how you can do it:

Removing the Old Badge Using Floss

1. Warm It Up: Gently heat the old badge with a hairdryer. This loosens the adhesive, making it easier to remove.
2. Use Dental Floss or Fishing Line: Take a piece of dental floss or fishing line and slide it behind the badge, using a sawing motion. This method cuts through the adhesive without harming the paint.
3. Clean the Area: After it has been removed, there might be some adhesive residue. Use an adhesive remover to clean the surface thoroughly, ensuring it's ready for your new one.

Attaching New Emblem

Positioning: Before peeling off the adhesive backing, hold it against your car to determine the perfect placement.

1. Stick It On: Carefully remove the backing and press the badge onto your car. Apply even pressure for about a minute to ensure strong adhesion.
2. Let It Cure: Wait at least 24 hours before washing your car or exposing it to harsh conditions, allowing the adhesive to set fully.

We can rush certain orders. Average lead time is 4 weeks. However for rush orders our goal is to have you order shipped within 2-3 weeks. Keep in mind, this will be dependent on many factors including quantity, size, design complexity and other factors. Contact us today to gather more info on how we may be able to rush your order.

Electroforming is an advanced metal fabrication process that involves the electrochemical deposition of nickel (or at less frequently copper) onto a model, known as a "mandrel," to create intricate and finely detailed three-dimensional structures. It is a precise and high-resolution method used to manufacture complex and custom metal parts, including car badges and nameplates.

The electroforming process begins by coating the mandrel with a conductive material, usually a thin layer of metal. The mandrel is then immersed in an electrolytic bath containing metal salts, and an electric current is applied. As the current flows through the electrolyte, metal ions are attracted to the conductive mandrel, depositing layer by layer until the desired thickness is achieved. The process is controlled carefully to achieve the desired design and level of detail.

The benefits of electroforming are:

1. Precision and Intricacy: Electroforming can capture complex shapes, fine lines, and delicate features that other manufacturing methods may not be able to achieve.

2. Durability: Exceptionable durability and resistance to wear, ensuring they maintain their original appearance even in harsh environmental conditions, such as exposure to UV rays and extreme temperatures.

3. Lightweight: Despite their detailed appearance, electroformed products can be manufactured extremely thin and are lighter than other methods. Their lightweight characteristic makes them suitable for branding on vehicles and other similar industries where weight is paramount.

4. Versatility: Nickel and at times copper are the materials of choice for electroforming, but it can also be layered on top of other metals like aluminum and abs.

5. Customization: Complete design freedom with all finishes, color, etc applied directly to the tooling. The precise nature of electroforming ensures that branding elements, such as logos and emblems, can be seamlessly integrated into the badges and nameplates, creating a cohesive and distinctive look for the vehicle.

7. Premium Finish: Smooth, premium finish, elevating the perceived value of your manufactured vehicles and leaving a lasting impression on the consumer.

Electroforming has become a favored manufacturing technique for premier branding.

Car badges, nameplates, and labels hold significant importance for vehicles on various levels, encompassing both functional and branding aspects. Here are some key points highlighting their importance:

• Brand Identity
• Vehicle Identification
• Aesthetics & Personalization
• Vehicle Safety & Functionality
• Premium Branding
• OEM Resale Value
• Advertising & Marketing
• Consumer Trust & Loyalty

Aluminum is the most commonly used metal when manufacturing metal badges. Below are some reasons alumium is an excellent choice:

1. Lightweight: Aluminum is a lightweight metal, making it well-suited for automotive components. Its low density contributes to fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance, as it reduces the additional weight added to the vehicle.

2. Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, especially when exposed to elements in different environments. This makes it highly durable for outdoor use, protecting from rust and environmental damage.

3. Durability: Although lightweight, aluminum is remarkably strong and durable. It can withstand the rigors of daily use and maintain its integrity, ensuring your badging remain in good condition.

4. Formability and Versatility: Highly malleable material, allowing for intricate designs and custom shapes to be easily achieved.
Aluminum retains its structural integrity even under extreme temperatures.

6. Anodization Capability: Can be anodized to enhance its surface properties further. Anodizing creates a protective oxide layer on the metal's surface, increasing its resistance to abrasion and wear, and offering a range of color options for aesthetic customization.

7. Recyclability: Aluminum is highly recyclable, aligning with eco-friendly practices and sustainability efforts in the automotive industry. The use of recycled aluminum in manufacturing reduces environmental impact and conserves resources.

8. Cost-Effectiveness: Aluminum is a cost-effective material, providing an attractive balance between performance, appearance, and affordability.

9. Branding and Identification: Car badging is crucial for branding and vehicle identification. Aluminum's aesthetic appeal, lightweight nature, and ability to accommodate intricate designs allow for eye-catching and distinctive branding elements that leave a memorable impression on customers.

10. Brass Appearance: Aluminum has the ability to replicate the appearance of brass and is much cheaper than using brass.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) plastic is a widely used material for OEM badging and for larger volumes.

1. Durability: ABS plastic is known for its exceptional durability and impact resistance. When used as an exterior material, it can withstand various environmental conditions, including exposure to sunlight, rain, and temperature fluctuations, without fading or deforming.

2. Corrosion Resistance: Naturally resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for prolonged outdoor use. This resistance to rust and degradation ensures they maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time. Typically coated with chrome for added protection and appeal.

3. Lightweight: Lightweight, which is particularly important for exterior components as the weight contributes to overall fuel efficiency and vehicle performance.

4. Versatility: Highly moldable and can be easily formed into various shapes and designs, including 3D effects. Making it possible to have intricate detailing and customization.

5. Aesthetics: Can be finished with different surface treatments, such as chrome plating, painting, screen printing, metallization and more to achieve a premium appearance. It offers a glossy finish, adding to the overall aesthetics of the vehicle.

6. Cost-Effective: A cost-effective material compared to other metals or plastics with similar properties when ordered in large volumes. Its affordability makes it an attractive choice for large-scale production.

7. Easy Installation: Due to their lightweight they are easy to install on the vehicle's exterior using adhesive backing or mechanical fasteners. This simplifies the assembly process and reduces production time.

8. UV Stability: UV stable, meaning it can resist damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. This feature prevents fading or discoloration when exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time.

9. Customization: Can be easily colored during the manufacturing process, allowing for a wide range of color options to match the vehicle's design or corporate branding.

Automotive grade acrylic (PMMA) is an innovative and visually appealing material that is primarily used as an economical option or for smaller quantities since it does not require molding. Here's an explanation of why transparent acrylic is utilized:

1. Visual Clarity: Provides exceptional optical clarity, allowing car manufacturers or organizations to create badges and nameplates with a see-through or translucent appearance.

2. Customizable Colors and Effects: Ability to be tinted or colored during the manufacturing process, offering a wide range of color options to match the vehicle's design or corporate branding. Additionally, various special effects, such as iridescence or pearlescence, can be added to create a captivating and dynamic visual impact.

3. UV Resistant: Inherently resistant to UV radiation, making it highly durable against the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to sunlight. This UV stability ensures they retain their transparency and vibrant colors over time without fading or yellowing.

4. Weather Resistance: Known for its weather-resistant properties, making it suitable for use in exterior applications. It can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations, without compromising its appearance or structural integrity.

5. Lightweight: A lightweight material, adding minimal extra weight to the vehicle. This lightweight characteristic is beneficial for fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance.

6. High Gloss Finish: Boasts a smooth and high-gloss finish, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the vehicle's exterior. The reflective properties of the material enhance the visual appeal.

7. Formability: Highly formable material, allowing for intricate detailing and complex shapes to be easily achieved. This formability allows car manufacturers to create custom and eye-catching designs.

8. Easy Installation: Typically designed for easy installation on the vehicle's exterior using adhesive backing or mechanical fasteners. The lightweight nature of acrylic simplifies the assembly process and reduces production time.

9. Cost Effective Option: Acrylic is an economical option for smaller quantities where making a mold it not ideal.

The primary difference between the two lies in their intended use and application:

1. Custom Car Badge:
- Custom car badges are typically decorative elements attached to the interior and exterior of a car, truck, van and more.
- They are designed to showcase the car manufacturer's logo, model name, or other brand identity elements.
- Often made from durable materials like metal or plastic, and they may feature various finishes, colors, and textures to enhance their visual appeal.
- Used to enhance aesthetics and create a distinctive look, reinforcing your core values and increasing recognition on the road.

2. Custom Nameplate:
- Custom nameplates are less frequently used for decorative purposes and more commonly used product identification for items such as automobiles, machinery, equipment, furniture, boats and more.
- They can be affixed to both the interior and exterior of the vehicle, as well as on other items like control panels, appliances, or electronic devices.
- They typically display vital information, such as product names, model numbers, serial numbers, ratings, instructions, or safety warnings.
- Functional and informative, providing essential details about the product or equipment, and they may be made from materials like metal, plastic, or adhesive-backed labels.

In the context of vehicles, car badges focus on branding, decorative and visual enhancement, adding a touch of elegance and uniqueness. On the other hand, nameplates are utilitarian, providing critical information about the vehicle or its components, helping users identify and understand specific details related to the product or equipment.

Custom car badges & emblems can significantly benefit your business's brand awareness efforts. Here are a few benefits to utilizing badging on your car:

1. Unique Branding: Allow you to create a unique and eye-catching representation of your company on your vehicles. With your logo and design elements showcased boldly those vehicles become billboards that spread your message to a diverse audience, generating exposure that most other markting and advertising methods can't replicate. When manufactured properly, they will outlast the life of the car!

2. Maintain Consistency: Ensure that your brand remains consistent across all touchpoints. This consistency reinforces trust and reliability in your hallmark, allowing customers to easily recognize and connect with your business wherever they encounter your vehicles.

3. Professionalism: Labeled with your mark, vehicles exude professionalism and attention to detail. By equipping your fleet with auto emblems, you project an image of quality and reliability, earning the confidence of potential customers and enhancing your business's reputation.

4. Brand Recognition: Make your unique mark highly recognizable, even from a distance. As more people see your branded automobiles, your recognition will grow, keeping your business top-of-mind when they need products or services you offer.

5. Earn Credibility: Credibility and reliability through badging for your potential customers. When people spot your logo and symbols on your fleet, they immediately see your business as trustworthy and established, giving them the confidence to choose your organization.

6. Investment in Advertising: Cost-effective advertising, when manufactured properly, delivers long-term results. Once installed, they continue promoting your logo without recurring expenses, making them an affordable and savvy investment for your marketing strategy.

7. Brand Story: They have the ability to tell the story of your organization. Whether it's your core values, unique offerings, or special achievements, they provide an opportunity to share your narrative with the world.

8. Versatility for Increased Exposure: Can be used on various vehicles, not just company cars. Whether it's delivery vans, employee vehicles, trailers, trucks or ride-hailing services, your exposure will expand across different platforms, reaching even more potential customers.

Most all emblems are backed with 3M adhesive. There are some limitations with this, but unless otherwise stated they come with the adhesive already pre applied. Simply peel and stick. Other options are available is necessary.

Yes, custom car letter emblems are available. The materials and manufacturing process will vary depending on the desired application.

Unfortunately, we do not offer any stock designs. There are other companies that we are aware of that do offer stock designs. All of our car badges are made to order. We manufacture OEM, dealership and aftermarket.