Choosing the right billboard size is key to making sure your message stands out and is easy to read from afar. Larger billboards offer better visibility, but they cost more. Smaller ones save money but might be harder to notice. Striking the right balance ensures maximum impact.
Billboard Size Chart
| Billboard type | Height Range | Width Range |
| Junior Poster | 6 feet | 12 feet |
| Poster | 10-1/2 to 12-1/4 feet | 22-3/4 to 24-1/2 feet |
| Bulletin | 10-1/2 to 14 feet | 36 to 48 feet |
| Spectacular | 16 to 20 feet | 60 feet |
Standard Billboard Sizes Explained
Billboards come in a variety of standard sizes, each tailored for specific locations and purposes. Choosing the right size depends on factors like visibility, cost, and the message you’re trying to convey. While larger billboards provide more space for creativity, smaller ones can be strategically placed in high-traffic areas to maximize impact.
Bulletin Billboards (14’ x 48’)
Bulletin billboards, measuring 14 feet by 48 feet, are the most common and largest billboards you’ll see on highways. These offer maximum visibility, making them ideal for long-distance viewing. However, they come with a higher cost and are often harder to secure in crowded urban areas. The tradeoff here is clear—greater impact at a premium price.
Poster Billboards (12’ x 24’)
Poster billboards, slightly smaller at 12 feet by 24 feet, are ideal for urban areas where space is limited. They are easier to position in dense locations and cost less than bulletins. The challenge, however, is that the smaller size reduces the design space, requiring more concise messaging to capture attention effectively.
Junior Posters (6’ x 12’)
Junior posters are the smallest billboard size, commonly used in neighborhoods or areas with lower traffic volumes. These are affordable and offer flexibility in placement but may not generate the same level of exposure as larger options. The challenge is ensuring the message remains readable despite the reduced size.
How to Choose the Right Billboard Size
Selecting the appropriate billboard size depends on factors like viewing distance, audience type, and location. For example, billboards on highways need to be larger so drivers can read them from a distance, while billboards in cities can be smaller, as pedestrians and drivers pass by more slowly.
However, bigger isn’t always better. Larger billboards come with higher costs, and the challenge is balancing budget against visibility. Smaller billboards may be more affordable and suitable for tight urban spaces, but they limit design options and could make your message harder to read from afar.
It’s also important to consider your audience. If your target is commuters, a bigger, high-traffic location makes sense. But for a local business in a neighborhood, a junior poster could be the right fit.
In the end, choosing the right size means weighing these tradeoffs to ensure your message is clear and impactful, without overspending or under-communicating.
FAQs
FAQ 1: What is the most common billboard size?
The most common billboard size is the Bulletin Billboard, which measures 14 feet by 48 feet. These are often found along highways and major roads due to their large size and excellent visibility from a distance.
FAQ 2: Are smaller billboards less effective than larger ones?
Smaller billboards, like Poster Billboards or Junior Posters, can still be very effective, especially in urban areas or neighborhoods. The key is to place them strategically in high-traffic locations where they are easily noticed and to design the message to fit the smaller space.
FAQ 3: How do I choose the right billboard size for my campaign?
Choosing the right billboard size depends on several factors, including viewing distance, location, and your target audience. Larger billboards are ideal for highways, where people view them from afar, while smaller sizes work better in cities. You’ll need to balance your budget with the desired visibility to make the best choice.