3M Reflective Tape

3M Reflective Tape for Vehicles and Equipment

Retroreflective tape works by returning light toward its source, so a driver's headlights illuminate a marked trailer, truck, or piece of equipment long before it would otherwise be seen. 3M has long been associated with this technology, and its reflective tape range covers everything from regulation-grade truck markings to general-purpose striping tape. This page focuses on 3M's offerings in that space. For the full lineup, visit the 3M brand page, or browse the wider Reflective Tape category to compare other manufacturers.

Diamond Grade Conspicuity Markings

The best-known 3M reflective tape for commercial vehicles is the Diamond Grade Conspicuity Markings Series 983. It is a highly reflective microprismatic lens sheeting. Instead of the tiny glass beads found in older reflective materials, microprismatic construction uses precisely formed prism elements to return more light. Series 983 reflects at wide angles, approaching 90 degrees, which matters when a trailer is turning or crossing a roadway and headlights strike it from the side.

Series 983 is intended for the sides and rear of large trucks, trailers and other vehicles to improve their visibility. It is DOT certified and guaranteed to meet or exceed NHTSA requirements. 3M markets it as six times brighter than conventional markings, with a bright white appearance in daylight and strong reflectivity at night.

• Adhesive and liner: an aggressive pressure-sensitive adhesive and an easy-to-remove liner simplify installation.
• Durability: the tape resists weather, dirt and aging, and the product is described as non-corroding.
• Colors: the series is offered in red/white alternating patterns as well as solid white, red, yellow, and fluorescent yellow-green.
• Emergency use: the fluorescent yellow-green version exceeds NFPA 1901 requirements, making it a fit for fire and rescue apparatus.

3M also offers flexible prismatic conspicuity options in the 900-series family, such as Series 913 and 973, for applications where a more conformable material is helpful. 3M publishes application instructions covering these series, which is worth reviewing before installation.

Scotchlite Reflective Tape and Striping Tape

Scotchlite is 3M's long-running reflective brand, and it extends into automotive uses. Scotchlite Reflective Tape and pressure-sensitive adhesive films use wide-angle, exposed retroreflective lenses bonded to an adhesive. They are easy to apply to rigid substrates by simply peeling and sticking. Scotchlite tapes such as the silver and fluorescent red-orange 2 in x 36 in rolls suit smaller jobs like marking equipment edges, gates, trailers, helmets, and accessories.

The Scotchlite Reflective Graphic Film 5100 series is an engineer-grade option. It is a Type I reflective material that conforms to ASTM D 4956. It is a popular choice for striping, lettering, and custom reflective graphics on vehicles, with a range of colors available.

Choosing the Right 3M Tape

• Regulated use: for tractor-trailers and other vehicles covered by DOT conspicuity rules, choose a certified product like Series 983.
• General marking and graphics: Scotchlite striping tape and 5100-series film are better suited to accents, equipment, and non-regulated applications.
• Surface and climate: clean, dry surfaces and the manufacturer's recommended application temperatures help the adhesive bond properly.
• Color and pattern: match the tape to the vehicle type, whether that is a standard red/white pattern or a high-visibility fluorescent color.

Whether you are outfitting a fleet trailer or adding visibility to a work truck or trailer, 3M's reflective tapes pair a recognized name with products built around specific performance standards.