Portable Sign vs. Permanent Sign: Which Is Better for Your Business?
When Edmonton business owners think about signage, the first instinct is usually a permanent sign — something bolted to the building or mounted on a pole. But permanent signs aren’t always the best option. Here’s how portable billboard signs compare, and when each one makes sense.
Cost Comparison
Permanent signs typically cost $2,000 to $10,000+ depending on size, materials, and installation. A basic illuminated channel letter sign for a storefront runs $3,000-$5,000. Add permits, electrical work, and installation, and you’re easily at $5,000-$8,000.
Portable billboard signs from OnePoint cost $149/month with everything included. No upfront cost. After a year, you’ve spent $1,788 total — and you can cancel anytime if your needs change.
For a new business testing a location or a seasonal operation, the math is clear. For an established business that wants both, a permanent sign on the building plus a portable sign at the street is a strong combination.
Flexibility
This is where portable signs pull ahead decisively.
Permanent signs display one message. Changing it means paying for new fabrication and installation. Want to promote a seasonal special, announce new hours, or advertise a specific product? That’s another round of design and printing costs.
Portable signs can be updated anytime. At OnePoint, panel swaps are included. Running a summer promotion? New menu items? “Now Hiring”? We print new panels and install them. Your sign stays relevant to what’s happening in your business right now.
Visibility and Placement
Permanent signs are fixed to your building. If your building is set back from the road, on a side street, or in a strip mall where the sign blends in with ten others, your permanent sign may not get the visibility you paid for.
Portable signs go where the traffic is. At the curb, at the entrance to your parking lot, at the nearest busy intersection (with permission). A 5’x10’ double-sided sign at street level is hard to miss, even at driving speed.
Permits and Regulations
Permanent signs in Edmonton almost always require a development permit. The application process takes time, has fees, and your sign design may need to meet specific zoning requirements.
Portable signs on private commercial property typically don’t need a permit in Edmonton. You can have a sign up in days, not weeks or months.
Maintenance
Permanent signs are your responsibility. Bulbs burn out, panels fade, weather takes a toll. Repairs come out of your pocket.
Portable signs from OnePoint include maintenance. If something needs fixing, we handle it. Your sign always looks sharp.
When Each Option Makes Sense
Go permanent if:
- You own the building and plan to be there for years
- Your building faces a busy road with good sight lines
- You want illuminated signage for night visibility
- You have the budget for a $5,000+ upfront investment
Go portable if:
- You’re a new business testing a location
- Your building has poor street visibility
- You need to change your message regularly
- You want something up fast without permit delays
- You’re on a tight marketing budget
Use both if:
- You want your business name on the building (permanent) plus a promotional message at the street (portable)
The Bottom Line
Permanent signs and portable signs serve different purposes. A permanent sign says “we’re here.” A portable sign says “here’s what we’re offering right now.” Most Edmonton businesses benefit from at least one portable sign, whether or not they have permanent signage.
Need a portable billboard sign? Contact OnePoint Solutions — $149/month, free design, delivery, and installation. No contracts.