How do non-helium Inflatables actually inflate?
We supply the electrical Air Blower that provides the constant needed inflation for this type of inflatable, known as “Cold-air” inflatables. The Air Blower plugs into a normal 120 volt outlet. The air blower is on constantly for 24/7 inflation, Some inflatables can be made without an air blower (called a Sealed Inflatable) and those come with a manual air-inflation valve but this type of inflatable will need a manual boost of air about once a week.
How long does Inflatable production & delivery take?
Helium inflatables (Blimps or Spheres) generally take 3 weeks for production & delivery from date of payment, unless it is a Custom Helium Inflatable which could take 4-5 weeks. For non-helium Standard and Custom cold air inflatables (uses electrical Air Blower for constant inflation) these take 4-5 weeks for production & delivery from date of payment.
The pre-production process of concept, design, mock-up, potential changes, and final mock-up approval could take up to 1-2 weeks depending on client needs, and that 1-2 weeks is not included in the overall production & delivery time previously noted.
How much helium does it need?
This is determined by the size and shape of each helium floating inflatable.
Storage and Maintenance of Your Custom Inflatable
To ensure your custom inflatable continues to make a lasting impression at every event, proper storage and maintenance are essential. Our expert designers craft each custom product with durability and quality in mind, but a little care goes a long way in keeping your ad balloon looking vibrant and working perfectly for years to come.
When your event wraps up, always store your custom inflatable in a clean, dry space—away from direct sunlight—to preserve those eye-catching colors and prevent material wear. Using the provided storage bag or a sturdy container will help shield your inflatable from dust, dirt, and accidental damage. For longer-term storage, a climate-controlled environment is ideal to maintain the integrity of your custom inflatable, ensuring it’s ready to stand tall and attract attention at your next event.
Before packing away your custom ad balloon, gently clean it if dirty with a mild soap & water and allow it to dry completely. This simple step helps prevent mold and mildew, so your inflatable is always fresh and ready to inflate. When it’s time to set up again, use the included blower and follow the easy instructions to avoid over-inflation and keep your custom product in top shape.
Our team is dedicated to helping you create unique, fun, and memorable ad balloons that bring your brand to life. Whether you’re planning product launches, trade shows, or community events, following these straightforward storage and maintenance tips will ensure your new branding continues to work perfectly and leave a great impression every time.
At USA Outdoor Media, we guarantee our custom balloons are built to last, using only the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship. If you ever have questions or need advice, our friendly team is happy to help—just contact us! Ready to start your next project? Browse our collection of custom inflatables and let us help you bring your imagination to life, increase your brand or store visibility, and make your next event a hit.
What type of art or logo file should be emailed?
For art or logo files we appreciate you sending a Vector file, which is normally from a logo generated in Adobe Illustrator, so from that program saving the file in to .ai, .svg, .eps, and .pdf can usually be used to create the mock-up for you.
If your logo was created in another type of program please look for “save as” options into these file formats: .ai, .svg, .eps, and .pdf
If the file is larger than 20mb, please use Wetransfer.com or Dropbox.com to send the file to: usaoutdoormedia@gmail.com
We are not a logo company but can sometimes make minor adjustments to a logo or art file if needed.
What types of inflatable advertising products do you offer?
USA Outdoor Media offers several types of reusable inflatables. The type of inflatable best for your business or event depends on goals including visibility needs, budget, and production complexity. We do not offer Air Dancer Tube Inflatables as they are not durable.
Helium Inflatables are usually a Blimp or Sphere shape including 2-sided logo…these inflatables are fairly standard in the advertising inflatable industry but not offered by all inflatable companies. Sometimes a Custom shape can be helium floating inflatable but custom shapes are not standardized by virtue of it being “custom” in nature. Helium inflatables are a thinner material (pvc) to be light enough to achieve “lift” when filled with helium. We do not supply helium.
Cold Air Inflatables typically include Custom and Rooftop Ad Balloon shapes. These do not use helium, they use an electrical air blower for constant inflation. The Rooftop Ad Balloons are fairly standardized for size options in the industry which includes the printed Logo or Message banner, and Custom shapes are quoted on a case by case basis. Cold Air Inflatables are typically made with thicker material (vinyl) offering great durability.
Sealed Air Inflatables typically are under 12ft in size, and are filled manually with air (sort of like a Beach ball), are made with thicker pvc material, do not float, and do need manual boosts of air every few days depending on complexity of the design. Air blowers are usually not included with this type of inflatable, but if an event is in a place where there is no electricity this type of inflatable can be a good choice.
Can you make any Inflatable shape?
Most concepts can be achieved, and we recommend submitting a simple design or drawing, or vector file, so an accurate quote and design can be prepared. Submitting a Vector logo or character file will allow us to make minor adjustments (if needed) to make the concept viable as an inflatable. Imagine your branded custom inflatable at 2-3 stories tall mounted on your football field, rooftop, or storefront area…WOW!
How long does the helium last?
This is determined by size and shape of each helium floating inflatable, and how long your event is, but in general a commercial helium inflatable will lose 1-2% helium per day (unlike a party balloon that deflates rapidly), and the inflatable will need a short booster shot of helium about once a week. In warm conditions less helium will be lost, and in cold conditions more helium will need to replaced more often, as helium is a gas and expands in warm conditions. Helium is not flammable.
What's the best inflatable for my goal: store traffic, grand opening, event visibility, or brand awareness?
Best inflatable will depend mainly on length of sale or event, and possibly what the city or landlord will allow. Cities tend to be more lenient on non-helium floating inflatables. If your store needs visibility from a great distance (more than ¼ mile) then a helium floating Blimp or Sphere inflatable floating at 10 stories high is a good option to grab attention from surrounding streets, roads, and freeways. If your store or event is close to a high-traffic street then a cold air Ad Balloon or Custom Shape might be best mounted on the rooftop, and not requiring helium.
Will my store or event traffic & sales increase with Advertising Inflatable?
Yes, and fast! Your retail or event location will become an instant landmark for passing cars or pedestrians, visible for blocks or miles, depending on the type of inflatable we offer.
Unlike advertising dollars spent on traditional media outlets like Newspaper, TV, Radio, Direct Mail, and Social Media, the Advertising Inflatable on your rooftop or parking lot will continue to drive traffic and sales long after it’s paid for in a few days of use. Branding Exposure will now be pennies on the dollar compared to the other forms of advertising.
How big can a Custom Inflatable or Rooftop Balloon be?
Sizes vary from 8ft up to about 30ft, depending on budget, size of building, and location for the inflatable to be mounted. Rule of thumb tends to be matching size of building to inflatable for good “scale” such as: Large building = Large inflatable, Medium building = Medium inflatable, and Small building = Small inflatable. We will help with the process by researching your physical location on Google Maps to understand your building and surrounding traffic patterns.
How high does the Helium Blimp or Sphere inflatable float / fly?
We recommend flying/floating the inflatable at 100ft for best airstreams, and best visibility / impact to your surrounding streets and freeways or special event location. At 100ft visibility is about 1 mile in all directions creating impact and traffic for your retail location or special event.
What is the ROI of Inflatable Advertising?
When purchasing an Advertising Inflatable you will likely be able to cancel some of your currently expensive & contractual traditional forms of advertising making your business more profitable FAST. Big impact signage as an inflatable will leverage your location to all surrounding streets, roads, and highways, and your location is your greatest asset or you would not be there.
Unlike advertising dollars spent on traditional outlets like Newspaper, TV, Radio, Direct Mail, and Social Media, the Advertising Inflatable on your rooftop or parking lot will continue to drive traffic and sales long after it’s paid for in a few days of use. Branding Exposure is now pennies on the dollar compared to the other forms of advertising.
What size inflatable should I choose for my location?
Best size depends on several factors. Budget is an obvious consideration as there are many size/price options available. Size should be scaled to size of the building (large building = large inflatable, medium building = medium sized inflatable, etc). Distance to traffic is also a consideration where a larger inflatable might be needed, or a smaller unit will do the trick if the store is right on a busy street. If floating high is needed for more challenging store or event visibility from a distance a medium sized helium Blimp or Sphere is a good choice.
Can you match my brand colors exactly?
We use PMS (Pantone Matching System) for color matching. Once we know your color code(s) they can be used in the Free mock-up provided during the quotation process.
How do we get helium?
Contact the largest helium vendors for best pricing (Airgas or Praxair), and they will deliver the required helium needed (as noted in our pricing chart the helium requirements are noted there as well). As a reference the largest helium tank is 300 cubic feet, and low grade helium is ok for this type of inflatable application. We do recommend ordering a bit extra of helium just to be safe.
How long do Inflatables last?
With common sense handling (mainly weather, wind, storage) the inflatables will last for years and years, which will also reduce your overall advertising costs as these are a 1-time purchase. We do offer a 2-year manufacturing defects warranty, and it arrives with instructions. We include the heavy-duty Nylon anchor straps, and Air Blower, so you just need to blow it up and tie it down.
Can the Rooftop Ad Balloon inflatable have a light?
Yes, we have a light system available that requires a normal 120v outlet for the Rooftop Balloon Inflatable. The light system will give you an evening impact from a distance your competitors probably do not have. Great for retail businesses that need that extra evening visibility boost to the street or freeway.
How is my logo printed on the Tent?
We use large format Digital Printing for best quality on our canvas material. Submitting a Vector logo file ensures we have a great logo file to produce the mock-up for your approval, and for final printing. We use PMS C colored with coated ink for best results and durability.
How long does Tent production & delivery take?
From the date of payment and artwork approval by the client our production & delivery time is 12-14 business days, not including weekends or holidays. We ship nationwide via UPS.
Do we approve the artwork before the payment and production begins?
An email mock-up is provided to you for approval before production begins. Receiving your logo file as a Vector file (typically in .ai or .eps or .svg file format) will speed-up the art/mock-up process. We print all colors in PMS-C format as the ink is coated for outdoor use. The Vector file allows us to scale-up or scale-down your image without distortion or pixelation.
Is my logo or message printed on 2-sides of a helium Blimp or Sphere?
Yes, the logo or wording is printed on 2-sides for Blimps, and Spheres using digital printing for the best quality. We will need your logo in Vector file format for large format printing. The message can be printed directly on the inflatable or printed on a removable marketing banner. Great for seasonal or price-point changes for product or store promotions.
Can the inflatable have a light?
Yes, we have a light system available that requires a normal 120v outlet for Rooftop Ad Balloons.
Can we change our sales message as needed?
As an option the non-helium inflatables can be fitted with a removable marketing banner that we print for you. The Rooftop Ad Balloons have large rectangular banner that is removeable, and the Helium Blimps or Spheres have an optional hanging banner that is also removeable. Changing your marketing message allows any retail business to address seasonal sales or special events.
Do we approve the artwork before the payment and production begins?
An email mock-up is provided for approval before production begins, this takes 24-72 hours typically depending on complexity of the design concept. Submitting a Vector logo file will expedite the process.
How long does production & delivery take?
From the date of payment and artwork approval by the client our production & delivery time is usually 4 weeks, although Football Tunnels can take 6 weeks during the Spring & Summer months. We ship nationwide via UPS or Freight Truck depending on weight of the inflatable but most ship by UPS.
Can we change our sales message as needed?
As an option the inflatable can be fitted with a removable marketing banner that we print for you.
Can you help design the artwork if I don't have files?
We are not a logo company, so any logos or artwork need to be submitted for us to create the mock-up. With a true Vector file we can sometimes make a minor adjustment to the logo or art if necessary.
Will I receive a proof/mockup before production?
Yes, each inflatable production requires an approved mock-up from the client before final payment and production can begin.
How many revisions are included with the proof?
There is no strict number of revisions, we try to get right the first time but know there could be a couple of revisions needed at times.
Can you print on multiple sides (or full wrap)?
Multiple sides printing is available depending on shape and style of inflatable. Typically helium inflatables have 2-sided logos or art, but can also have “wrapped” art if a vector file is provided. The old saying of “less is more” also comes into play as the inflatable is a giant billboard seen for just a few seconds by passing traffic, so a less busy looking inflatable can be advantageous for impact and retention of your message. Rooftop Ad Balloons come with the removable marketing banner pre-printed with your logo, text, or artwork.
How does printing work (digital print vs. sewn/appliqué)?
Logos and Artwork are printed digitally for best quality, no screen printing, this is why the vector logo digital logo file is needed for mock-up and final production.
Will my inflatable look the same in daylight vs. at night?
Some inflatables can have an internal light system at an extra cost, this will depend on the size and shape of the inflatable. Helium Blimps & Spheres, and Cold Air Ad Balloons are the best for internal lighting.
Can you create any custom shape (mascots, products, characters, etc.)?
Most logo, product, or character shapes from a brand vector file can be replicated. Some extra complex shapes may not be possible due to air flow inflation restrictions, or the inflatable needed is too small to replicate the shape properly based on limitations of the inflatable materials in a design that is too small.
Can my inflatable include moving parts (waving arms, spinning elements, etc.)?
There are no moving parts with Cold Air or Helium inflatables, and moving parts with sewn seams create a recipe for premature failure (this is the case with Air Dancer Tube Inflatables…lack of durability).
Can you add banners, Velcro panels, or interchangeable message areas?
Ad Balloons, Blimps, Spheres, and some Custom inflatables can be fitted with a removable marketing banner that is pre-printed. Attachment is by zip ties or rope ties.
What's the typical production timeline?
Helium Blimps & Spheres are 3 weeks for production & delivery from payment date. Cold air Ad Balloons or Custom Inflatables are 4-5 weeks. Football Tunnels or Mascot Tunnels are 6-8 weeks.
How long does shipping take and what carriers do you use?
If the inflatable is under 150lbs then UPS or FedEx ground service is used, and over 150lbs Freight truck is used for delivery.
Can you rush production for an upcoming event?
Rush orders are typically not possible as this would push someone else’s order further back for delivery time.
Do you ship to business locations, residences, and event venues?
We can ship to businesses, hotels, trade shows, and residences as needed.
What comes in the box when it arrives?
Most inflatables come with 1-3 boxes. Helium inflatables come with inflation hose & tank fitting, main anchor line, storage bag, and instructions. Cold air inflatables come with air blower (1 box), inflatable (1 box), and accessories (1 box)…anchor straps, storage bag, instructions, banners are all included.
How do non-helium inflatables inflate (and what powers them)?
Electrical air blower is included for Cold Air inflatables, which uses a standard 120v outlet allowing for inflation in minutes and the blower stays on while the inflatable is in use.
Sealed inflatables require manual inflation, and a blower is not provided, so any car mattress fan blower can be used. This inflatable will need a booster shot of air at least once a week, but can be used at remote locations where there is no electricity.
Helium inflatables use helium for inflation, purchased from Airgas or PraxAir in most cities, and these inflatables will need a booster of helium at least once a week. Helium hose and Tank fitting is provided.
How long does setup and takedown take?
Most inflatables take 15-20 minutes for set-up and inflation. Larger inflatables may require 2-3 people for set-up or take down.
Do you provide setup instructions (or installation support)?
We do provide installation support with detailed instructions with all inflatables shipped.
How do I anchor/tether it safely?
All inflatables shipped come with a main Anchor Line (helium inflatables) or multiple Anchor Straps (cold air or sealed inflatables) for proper tethering on ground or roof mountings.
What space/clearance do I need (roof, parking lot, storefront, etc.)?
Amount of space needed depends on size and type of inflatable, and where it will be mounted. When mounting on a roof be aware of HVAC units, and any wires, trees, or sharp objects that could interfere with the inflatable. Helium inflatables do need some extra room to lazily sway in the breeze, whereas Cold Air or Sealed inflatables are stationary.
What power source do I need (standard outlet, generator, extension cord)?
Standard 120v outlet for Cold Air Inflatable is needed, or a small gas or electrical generator with a 120v outlet, and a commercial grade extension cord may be needed from a local hardware store.
How loud are the blowers?
Air Blower noise is about equal to a vacuum cleaner for reference.
How much electricity does it use?
From the 120v outlet the Air Blower will draw about 8-9 amperage.
Can I run it continuously all day?
Inflatables using an air blower can run all day for constant inflation. Helium inflatables do not use an air blower requiring helium for their inflation.
How much helium does it require?
Helium costs do vary somewhat from city to city. The largest vendors are Airgas and Praxair for best pricing. The amount of helium needed is based on the size of the inflatable, and we recommend ordering a bit extra as helium can be tricky during the inflation process.
How high can a helium blimp or sphere float?
We provide a 100ft Anchor Line, so you can float your helium inflatable 10 stories high for maximum visibility to your local area.
How do I get helium and where do I refill it?
Helium tanks are rented/purchased from Airgas or Praxair in most U.S. cities. We provide the Tank fitting and Helium hose.
Can your helium inflatables be used indoors?
Yes, helium inflatables can be used indoors for trade shows, special events, or large warehouse environments. Be aware of any sharp objects with indoor use.
What wind speed is safe for outdoor use?
We recommend floating the helium inflatable in winds less than 10mph, and keep an eye on any gusting winds over 10mph that can reach 20-30mph which can cause damage to the inflatable.
Can I use inflatables in rain or snow?
Sprinkling rain (very light) can be tolerated by most inflatables, while making sure an inflatable with an electrical air blower has those connections protected, but heavy rain or snow should always be avoided. If the inflatable becomes wet make sure the surface is dry before folding and storing. Wet surfaces during storage can promote mildew and rot the material.
What should I do if the weather changes suddenly?
Deflate the inflatable, store in a dry condition, re-inflate and use once the weather turns nice again. Common sense needs to be used with any outdoor advertising products.
Are your inflatables flame-retardant or safety-rated?
Yes, materials are flame retardant for indoor or outdoor use.
Are permits required for rooftop balloons or helium inflatables?
Every city has different regulations, or no regulations, so the best advice is to call the local Signs & Permits Department at City Hall and explain what your plan is, but always ask to see the ordinance language in writing to verify.
Can the inflatable be lit at night?
Yes, many of the inflatables can have an internal light system added as an option. Most use electricity, some use battery packs.
What lighting options do you offer (internal lights, spotlights, LED, etc.)?
Electrical LED Internal Lighting including cord, or Battery operated LED, are the options available.
Are the lights safe for outdoor/weather exposure?
Using lights outdoors is not a problem as they are enclosed within the inflatable.
Can we change our message or promotion later?
If a banner is included with your inflatable the message marketing banner is removable and can be changed.
Can the inflatable be rebranded or updated in the future?
If the inflatable has a marketing banner it can be removed and changed, if the inflatable has a logo or message printed directly on the skin then it cannot be re-branded.
How long do inflatables typically last?
With proper care and common sense the inflatable should last 1-3 years depending on the type of inflatable ordered.
What's the best way to clean and maintain the inflatable?
Should the inflatable become dirty simply use light dish soap and white wash cloth with gentle wiping, then rinsing, then allowed to fully dry.
How should I store it between uses?
Fold carefully, then store in a dry condition / dry space.
What if it gets a small tear—can it be repaired?
We provide patch material and glue for small tears, and in case of large tear the inflatable would need to be shipped to us for inspection and repair quote.
Do you sell replacement parts (blowers, ropes, anchors, lights)?
Replacement light systems, air blowers, tether lines, helium hoses, tank fittings, patch materials, are all available.
How much do custom inflatables cost?
Custom inflatables vary in cost based on size and complexity. Consult our Customs page for all standard sizes/prices.
What affects price the most (size, print, complexity, accessories)?
Size and complexity of Shape are the main drivers of pricing.
What is your payment schedule (deposit vs. full payment)?
Once the design mock-up is approved, and invoice is emailed, we do require 100% payment to commence production. In some cases 50% down can be accepted on orders with multiple units being made at same time.
Do you offer financing or payment plans?
With bulk purchasing we can offer 50% down, and final 50% due at shipping date.
What kind of ROI can I expect from inflatable advertising?
ROI can vary based on frequency of inflatable use, type of sale or promotion for a sale or special event, but most businesses see a solid 10-30% increase in traffic and sales over the first 60 days.
What warranty is included?
Manufacturing Defect Warranty differs with type of inflatable but warranties are from 1 year to 2 years.
What does the warranty cover (seams, print, blower, lights)?
Warranties cover manufacturing defects including seams, printing, blower, lights, however damage due to excessive wind or weather is not covered.
What support do you provide after delivery?
Any operational questions, orders for new marketing banners, or general inflatable questions are supported by phone Monday - Friday.
How is my logo printed on the tent canopy and walls?
Printing is done by digital dye-sublimation for accurate results, we do not use screen printing.
Are tent walls removable or interchangeable?
If the Tent walls are the same size, moving them from one side to another is easy with the velcro straps sewn into the top of each wall.
What sizes and frame strengths do you offer?
We offer standard Tent sizes of 10x10ft, 10x15ft, and 10x20ft.
Are your tents rated for wind/weather?
Tents are rain proof, and stake or sandbag sets are available for breezy days, however high wind will be a challenge to any tent set-up so checking wind forecasts carefully will be an important pre-event duty.