Based on checking the website, Aplates.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and well-regarded UK-based online retailer specializing in custom number plates, including 3D and 4D styles. User reviews prominently displayed on their homepage, sourced from platforms like Trustindex and Google, overwhelmingly indicate positive experiences with their service, product quality, and delivery speed. This suggests that Aplates.co.uk is a reliable option for individuals looking to customize their vehicle’s number plates within legal UK guidelines.

The site clearly emphasizes its adherence to DVLA regulations, ensuring that all road-legal plates comply with British Standards, including the mandated font style Charles Wright and the inclusion of company details.

This transparency is crucial for consumer confidence, especially when dealing with regulated automotive accessories.

They offer a range of styles, from standard printed plates to more premium 3D Gel and 4D Acrylic options, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences while maintaining legal compliance.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Aplates.co.uk Review & First Look

Aplates.co.uk presents itself as a specialized provider of vehicle number plates in the UK, focusing on modern 3D and 4D designs.

The initial impression of the website is clean, user-friendly, and professional, designed to guide visitors through the plate design and ordering process seamlessly.

Website Navigation and User Experience

The website’s navigation is intuitive, with clear categories for different plate styles and a prominent “DESIGN YOUR PLATES” call to action.

The layout is uncluttered, making it easy for users to find the information they need, whether it’s about plate styles, legality, or customer support.

Ease of Use: The “state-of-the-art number plate builder” is highlighted, suggesting a streamlined customization process. This is crucial for a product with numerous personalization options.
Information Accessibility: Key information such as “FREE FIXING KIT,” “FREE SHIPPING OVER £35,” “3-Year Warranty,” and “100% Road Legal” is immediately visible, addressing common customer concerns upfront.
Mobile Responsiveness: A quick check reveals that the site is optimized for various devices, ensuring a consistent user experience on desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

Product Range Overview

Aplates.co.uk offers a comprehensive selection of number plate styles, catering to different aesthetic preferences while adhering to UK road legality.

4D Number Plates: Features acrylic characters with a bold, solid appearance and greater depths 3mm or 5mm. These are popular for their distinctive, raised look.
4D Gel Number Plates: A hybrid option combining acrylic characters with a gel topping, offering both boldness and a domed, glossy finish.
3D Gel Number Plates: Characterized by gel resin characters with a rounded, domed style and a smaller depth, providing a subtle three-dimensional effect.
Hex Number Plates: A unique hexagonal shape that stands out, often chosen for aesthetic reasons, though specific legality for road use should always be verified by the customer.
Standard Printed Number Plates: Traditional flat printed plates, suitable for those who prefer a classic look.
Show Plates: These include “4D Krystal Show Number Plates” and “4D Neon Gel Show Number Plates,” which are not road legal and are intended for off-road use, car shows, or private property only. This distinction is important for customers to understand.

Aplates.co.uk Pros & Cons

Like any service, Aplates.co.uk has its strengths and potential areas for improvement.

A balanced perspective helps in making an informed decision.

Advantages of Using Aplates.co.uk

The website highlights several compelling reasons to choose their service, backed by customer testimonials.

Road Legality Assurance: As a DVLA-registered manufacturer, they guarantee compliance with British Standards BSAU numbers, Charles Wright font, company name/postcode. This is a significant advantage for peace of mind.
Product Quality: They emphasize heavy investment in equipment to produce “premium, high-quality products,” ensuring durability and a professional finish. Customer reviews frequently praise the quality.
Fast and Free Delivery: Free shipping on orders over £35 and often next-day delivery service as reported by multiple customers is a strong selling point, especially for a customized product.
Free Fixing Kit: Including a complimentary fixing kit simplifies the installation process for customers, adding value to the purchase.
Positive Customer Service: Numerous reviews commend the helpfulness and responsiveness of their customer service team, addressing queries promptly.
Extensive Customer Base: With “over 60,000 happy customers,” Aplates.co.uk demonstrates a proven track record and considerable market trust in the UK.
Variety of Styles: Offering 3D, 4D, and Hex plates allows customers to select a style that truly reflects their vehicle’s aesthetic.

Potential Considerations

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor points or areas for consideration might exist, though they are less frequently mentioned in public reviews.

Exclusively UK Market: The service is tailored specifically for the UK market, adhering to DVLA regulations. This means it’s not applicable for international customers seeking number plates for other regions.
Reliance on Online Design Tool: While the builder is presented as “state-of-the-art,” the accuracy of the final product relies heavily on the customer’s input through this digital tool. Any input error from the customer’s side could lead to an incorrect plate.
Legality Nuances for Show Plates: The distinction between road-legal and “show plates” needs to be absolutely clear to prevent misuse. While the website mentions it, customers must pay close attention.

Understanding Plate Differences: 3D, 4D, and 4D Gel

Aplates.co.uk provides a clear breakdown of the different dimensions and materials used in their number plates, which is crucial for customers to understand before making a purchase. Puursmile.com Reviews

3D Gel Number Plates Explained

These plates offer a subtle yet distinct raised effect, providing a premium look without being overly prominent.

Characters: Made from gel resin characters.
Style: Features a rounded, domed style, giving a soft, tactile feel.
Depth: Has a smaller depth compared to 4D plates, typically adding a slight three-dimensional quality.
Visual Appeal: Creates an elegant and refined appearance, often chosen for a more understated customization.

4D Acrylic Number Plates Explained

The 4D style is known for its bolder, more pronounced appearance, achieved through the use of solid acrylic characters.

Characters: Utilizes acrylic characters, which are solid and rigid.
Style: Provides a bolder, solid look, standing out significantly from the plate surface.
Depths: Available in greater depths 3mm or 5mm, creating a more dramatic, layered effect.
Durability: Acrylic is known for its resilience and ability to withstand various weather conditions.

What is 4D Gel?

This is a unique hybrid offering that combines the best features of both 3D Gel and 4D Acrylic plates.

Characters: Consists of 4D Gel Characters = Acrylic + Gel Topping. This means a solid acrylic character is topped with a layer of gel.
Style: Results in a bolder style yet still domed, offering the prominent look of 4D with the glossy, rounded finish of gel.
Depths: Also available in greater depths 3mm or 5mm, enhancing the three-dimensional impact.
Key Benefits:
- Adds Incredible Depth: The combination of acrylic and gel creates a very striking visual.
- Safe To Pressure Wash: The durable construction allows for easy cleaning without damage.
- Doesn’t Fade In The Sun: Designed to resist UV degradation, maintaining their appearance over time.
- Laser Icon Expertly Laser Cut: Indicates precision in character cutting and finishing.

Aplates.co.uk Legality and Compliance

For any automotive accessory, especially number plates, adherence to legal standards is paramount.

Aplates.co.uk places a strong emphasis on its compliance with UK regulations.

DVLA Registration and Standards

Aplates.co.uk clearly states its status as a DVLA-registered manufacturer and supplier, which is the cornerstone of its legality claims.

British Standard BSAU: All road-legal plates produced must comply with the current British Standard. This includes specific requirements for reflectivity, character spacing, and overall plate construction.
Mandatory Markings: By law, all road-legal plates from Aplates.co.uk will include their company name, postcode, and the current BSAU number. This ensures traceability and confirms the plate’s origin and adherence to standards.
Legal Font: The website confirms that the font style used for all their number plates is Charles Wright, which is the standardized and legal font in the UK for number plates. Deviating from this font would render a plate illegal for road use.

Legality of 3D and 4D Number Plates

There has often been confusion surrounding the legality of raised-character number plates. Aplates.co.uk clarifies the official stance.

Government/DVLA Confirmation: The UK Government and DVLA have explicitly confirmed that three-dimensional characters are legal and compliant with motoring laws.
“4D” as an Industry Name: The term “4D” is merely an industry standard name to differentiate these plates. fundamentally, they are still considered 3D or three-dimensional characters from a legal perspective. This means they meet the requirements for display on public roads, provided all other regulations font, spacing, markings, reflectivity are met.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: It is crucial for customers to understand that using non-compliant or illegal number plates on a public road can result in fines of up to £1,000 and even failing an MOT test. Aplates.co.uk’s emphasis on legality helps mitigate this risk for consumers.

Customer Experience and Service Quality

Aplates.co.uk prides itself on delivering an excellent customer experience, evidenced by the numerous positive reviews displayed on their site.

Customer Testimonials and Trust

The website prominently features a “CUSTOMER REVIEWS” section with an “EXCELLENT” rating based on over 931 reviews. This transparency builds immediate trust.

Review Source Verification: Aplates.co.uk states that Trustindex verifies the original source of these reviews e.g., Google, adding credibility to the feedback.
Consistent Positive Feedback: Common themes in reviews include:
- “Amazing service and really happy with my number plates!” Becky Tarling
- “Absolutely FANTASTIC!! You’ll honestly not find a better price on the internet! Quality of product is second to none with super fast delivery!” Adam Zaki
- “Great service very helpful.” Simon Holley
- “Brilliant service, ordered Monday morning received Tuesday lunchtime on the standard delivery.” ste adams
- “First class service & quality plates. Super quick delivery & free fixings.” Katie Wannop
- “Very easy to order online and a very fast delivery. The plates look great.” Andrew Binding
- “Easy to use website to customise plates exactly how I wanted… Came next day too, brilliant!” James Harrison
- “Brilliant service, top quality plates and fitting instructions and kit. Highly recommended.” Andrew Acton
Evidence of Responsiveness: Adam Zaki’s review mentions, “My query was even answered in a matter of a short hour!”, indicating efficient customer support.

Operational Excellence and Growth

The “About Us” section provides insight into the company’s journey and commitment to quality. Globalworkandtravel.com Reviews

Founded in 2019: Aplates.co.uk has experienced “intense growth” since its inception.
Expanded Operations: They now operate from two premises in Westbury, Wiltshire—a manufacturing workshop and an assembly unit—indicating a significant scale of operations.
Professionalism: They state that “Professionalism is paramount to everything we do here at Aplates,” underscoring their dedication to high standards.
Market Position: They claim to be “the UK’s number 1 supplier of 4D and 3D number plates,” which, while a self-claim, is supported by their large customer base and positive feedback.

Aplates.co.uk Pricing

Aplates.co.uk’s pricing strategy aims to be competitive while offering premium products.

While specific pricing details require using their plate builder, they emphasize value through included benefits and offers.

Value Proposition

The website immediately highlights features that add significant value to the purchase, effectively reducing the overall cost for the customer.

Free Fixing Kit: This eliminates the need for customers to purchase a separate mounting kit, saving them both time and money.
Free Shipping: Orders over £35 qualify for free shipping, a common threshold that many multi-plate orders would likely meet. This is a significant saving, especially for bulkier items.
3-Year Warranty: A substantial warranty period indicates confidence in their product’s durability and offers long-term peace of mind.
Mystery Discount: Visitors are encouraged to join their email list for a “mystery discount code,” a common marketing tactic to incentivize sign-ups and provide a potential saving.
Promotional Codes: A prominent banner “GET 15% OFF & FREE SHIPPING | USE CODE ‘Save15′” suggests ongoing promotions, making their products more accessible.

Pricing Structure Implied

While exact prices aren’t listed upfront on the homepage as they depend on customization, the business model suggests:

Base Price per Plate: Likely a standard price for a single plate, with variations based on style e.g., 3D, 4D, Hex.
Add-ons/Customization Costs: Any additional custom elements e.g., specific borders, unique spacing beyond standard might incur extra charges, though the website primarily focuses on the style variations themselves.
Bulk/Pair Discounts: While not explicitly stated, it’s common for number plate suppliers to offer slight discounts when purchasing a front and rear pair.

The emphasis on “you’ll honestly not find a better price on the internet!” from a customer review suggests they aim for competitive pricing within the premium number plate market.

Aplates.co.uk Alternatives

When considering custom number plates, it’s always wise to explore alternatives to ensure you’re getting the best product and service for your needs.

The market for UK number plates is competitive, with several reputable suppliers.

Key Competitors in the UK Market

Several other online retailers offer custom number plates, each with their own strengths and unique selling propositions.

Plates Factory: Known for a wide range of plate styles, including 3D Gel, 4D, and a variety of bespoke options. They often emphasize quick turnaround times and a user-friendly design tool.
Demon Plates: One of the more established names in the industry, offering a comprehensive selection from standard plates to show plates and accessories. They have a strong reputation for compliance and customer support.
Number1Plates: Another popular choice, often highlighted for competitive pricing and a good selection of 3D and 4D styles. They also focus on quick delivery and legality.
Unique Plates: Specializes in unique and bespoke designs, including custom sizing and specific character layouts, appealing to those seeking truly distinctive plates.
MyPlates: Offers a straightforward design process and a range of standard and premium plate options, focusing on ease of use and affordability.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alternative

When evaluating Aplates.co.uk against its competitors, consider these aspects:

Legality and DVLA Compliance: Ensure any alternative is also a DVLA-registered supplier and guarantees road legality for all plates intended for public road use. This is non-negotiable.
Product Quality and Durability: Look for reviews on the longevity and finish of the plates. While all should meet basic standards, some manufacturers might use higher-grade materials or more robust construction.
Design Tool Features: Compare the ease of use and customization options of the online plate builders. Some might offer more visual previews or specific layout choices.
Pricing and Value: Compare the total cost, including shipping and any included accessories like fixing kits. Look for ongoing promotions or discount codes.
Delivery Speed and Options: If you need plates quickly, verify the stated delivery times and whether expedited shipping is available.
Customer Service and Support: Check reviews on responsiveness and helpfulness of customer service, especially if you anticipate needing assistance with your order or design.
Warranty and Returns Policy: Understand the warranty period and the process for returns or exchanges in case of issues.

Ultimately, Aplates.co.uk stands strong in the market due to its clear emphasis on legality, quality, and positive customer feedback. Blinds4you.co.uk Reviews

However, exploring alternatives allows for a comprehensive comparison to ensure the best fit for individual needs and preferences.

How to Get Your Aplates.co.uk Order Processed Quickly

Aplates.co.uk prides itself on fast delivery, with many customers reporting next-day receipt.

To ensure your order is processed and dispatched as quickly as possible, follow these key steps.

Ensuring Smooth Order Processing

The efficiency of your order largely depends on providing accurate and complete information.

Use the Online Plate Builder Accurately:
- Double-Check Registration Numbers: Ensure the characters and spacing for your desired registration number are entered precisely as they should appear. Any typos will lead to delays or incorrect plates.
- Select Correct Plate Type: Clearly distinguish between front and rear plates if they differ in size or style, and ensure you’re selecting “road legal” plates if that’s your intention.
- Review All Customization Options: Confirm the chosen style e.g., 4D 5mm, 3D Gel, border options, and any other visual elements are exactly as you want them. The “state-of-the-art number plate builder” should provide a clear visual preview.
Provide Required Documentation Promptly:
- Proof of Identity: As a DVLA-registered supplier, Aplates.co.uk is legally required to verify your identity. Have documents like your driving license, passport, or national identity card ready.
- Proof of Entitlement to the Registration Number: You’ll need to prove you’re entitled to display the registration mark. Acceptable documents include:
  - Vehicle registration certificate V5C
  - New keeper slip V5C/2
  - Certificate of entitlement V750
  - Retention document V778
  - Number Plate Authorisation Certificate V948/NPAC with an official DVLA stamp
  - Most recent MOT certificate for cars 3 years old or more
  - Book of the vehicle service for vehicles 3 years old or more
  - A letter from the DVLA issued within the last 6 months
  - A letter of assignment from the DVLA issued within the last 6 months
  - A copy of the Police Data for stolen vehicles
- Submission Method: Follow their instructions on how to submit these documents usually via email or an upload portal. Delays in submission are the most common reason for order hold-ups.
Complete Payment Swiftly:
- Ensure your payment method is valid and has sufficient funds.
- Any payment processing issues can put your order on hold.
Confirm Order Details:
- After placing your order, review the confirmation email carefully.
- If anything looks incorrect, contact Aplates.co.uk customer service immediately.

By ensuring all details are correct and documentation is provided quickly, you maximize the chances of your order moving from processing to dispatch without unnecessary delays, leading to that praised “next-day delivery” experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of number plates does Aplates.co.uk offer?

Aplates.co.uk offers a range of number plate styles including 4D Number Plates Acrylic, 4D Gel Number Plates Acrylic + Gel topping, 3D Gel Number Plates, Hex Number Plates, and Standard Printed Number Plates. Avantstay.com Reviews

They also offer “Show Plates” which are not road legal.

Are Aplates.co.uk’s number plates road legal in the UK?

Yes, Aplates.co.uk is a DVLA-registered manufacturer and supplier.

All their road-legal plates comply with the British Standard BSAU number, Charles Wright font, company name, and postcode and are confirmed by the Government/DVLA to be compliant.

What is the difference between 3D and 4D number plates?

3D Gel plates have gel resin characters that are rounded/domed and have a smaller depth.

4D Acrylic plates have solid acrylic characters that are bolder, with greater depths 3mm or 5mm.

What is a 4D Gel number plate?

A 4D Gel plate combines an acrylic character with a gel topping.

This results in a bolder style that is also domed, offering incredible depth and being safe to pressure wash without fading in the sun.

Does Aplates.co.uk offer free shipping?

Yes, Aplates.co.uk offers free shipping on orders over £35 within the UK.

Do I get a free fixing kit with my order?

Yes, Aplates.co.uk includes a free fixing kit with your number plate order.

How quickly does Aplates.co.uk deliver?

Many customer reviews indicate very fast delivery, with some reporting next-day receipt even on standard delivery, if orders are placed early enough and all required documentation is provided. Uk.rs-online.com Reviews

What documents do I need to provide to order number plates from Aplates.co.uk?

You will need to provide proof of identity e.g., driving license, passport and proof of entitlement to the registration number e.g., V5C, V750, V778.

Can I customize the design of my number plates?

Yes, Aplates.co.uk provides a “state-of-the-art number plate builder” on their website to customize your plates, allowing you to choose styles, characters, and other options.

What is the warranty on Aplates.co.uk number plates?

Aplates.co.uk offers a 3-year warranty on their number plates, indicating confidence in their product quality and durability.

Are Hex number plates legal for road use?

While Hex number plates are offered, it’s crucial to ensure they still meet all DVLA requirements for road legality, including correct sizing and character display.

Aplates.co.uk would confirm if their Hex plates are road-legal.

What font does Aplates.co.uk use for road-legal plates?

Aplates.co.uk uses the Charles Wright font, which is the standardized legal font for number plates in the UK, ensuring compliance with DVLA regulations.

What is the customer service like at Aplates.co.uk?

Customer reviews frequently praise Aplates.co.uk’s customer service for being responsive, helpful, and efficient in answering queries.

How do I contact Aplates.co.uk customer support?

The website typically provides contact information such as an email address or a contact form in their “Contact Us” or FAQ sections.

Can I order show plates from Aplates.co.uk?

Yes, Aplates.co.uk offers “show plates” e.g., 4D Krystal Show, 4D Neon Gel Show, which are specifically designed for off-road use, car shows, or private land and are not legal for display on public roads.

How many customers has Aplates.co.uk served?

Aplates.co.uk states they have served over 60,000 happy customers since their founding in 2019. Theopticshop.co.uk Reviews

Where is Aplates.co.uk based?

Aplates.co.uk operates from two premises in Westbury, Wiltshire, UK, for manufacturing and assembly.

What payment methods does Aplates.co.uk accept?

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, most e-commerce sites accept common payment methods like credit/debit cards and potentially digital wallets.

This information would be available during the checkout process.

Can I return number plates if I made a mistake in the order?

Their returns policy, likely found in a dedicated section on their website, would outline conditions for returns, especially for custom-made products where customer input errors might not be covered.

Does Aplates.co.uk offer any discounts or promotions?

Yes, the website advertises promotions such as “GET 15% OFF & FREE SHIPPING | USE CODE ‘Save15′” and offers a “mystery discount code” for joining their email list.

Aplates.co.uk Reviews