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What are Bumper Ads?

Bumper ads are short (often 6s) non-skippable video ads. Learn how to make them clear and product-forward.
Brief Definition

Bumper ads are ultra-short video ads (commonly 6 seconds) designed to deliver a single clear message quickly. They work best as focused reminders, not full explanations.

Understanding Bumper Ads

Because time is tight, bumper ads should show the product immediately, state one benefit, and end with branding. Catalog assets and product‑level shots help clarity at small sizes. Bold typography and high contrast protect readability on mobile. Plan safe zones so captions and UI don’t cover key text or logos. Keep audio optional; assume many viewers are muted.

Bumper ads work best as focused reminders rather than full explanations. Tie the message to a single action or benefit, not a list. Use motion that supports comprehension rather than flashy transitions. Keep brand assets consistent with longer creatives in the same flight. Validate the cut across 9:16, 1:1, and 16:9 if you plan to reuse it.

Why Bumper Ads matter

Bumper ads matter because they deliver efficient reach in video inventory with minimal disruption. Their brevity forces clarity, which can improve recall when repeated. They also reinforce longer creatives by keeping the core message top of mind.

  • Reach: Efficient impressions in video inventory.
  • Recall: Clear, consistent messages build memory.
  • Support: Reinforces longer creative in the same flight.

How Bumper Ads work

Bumper ads work by compressing a single idea into six seconds or less. Supply platform‑compliant short videos with subtitles and safe zones so UI doesn’t cover copy. Open on the product and benefit, then close with a clear brand mnemonic or CTA. Use simple layouts and big type to maintain legibility on mobile. Keep cuts tight and motion purposeful to avoid confusion. Pair bumpers with longer assets so campaigns cover both awareness and reinforcement.

Meta Information

  • Primary Keyword: Bumper Ads
  • Secondary Keywords: 6-second ads, short-form video ads
  • Target Word Count: 700–900 words
  • Meta Title: What are Bumper Ads? Six Seconds to Make a Point | Marpipe
  • Meta Description: Bumper ads are short (often 6s) non-skippable video ads. Learn how to make them clear and product-forward.
  • URL: marpipe.com/ad-glossary/bumper-ads

# What are Bumper Ads?

Bumper ads are ultra-short video ads (commonly 6 seconds) designed to deliver a single clear message quickly.

They work best as focused reminders, not full explanations.

Understanding Bumper Ads

Because time is tight, bumper ads should show the product immediately, state one benefit, and end with branding. Catalog assets and product‑level shots help clarity at small sizes. Bold typography and high contrast protect readability on mobile. Plan safe zones so captions and UI don’t cover key text or logos. Keep audio optional; assume many viewers are muted.

Bumper ads work best as focused reminders rather than full explanations. Tie the message to a single action or benefit, not a list. Use motion that supports comprehension rather than flashy transitions. Keep brand assets consistent with longer creatives in the same flight. Validate the cut across 9:16, 1:1, and 16:9 if you plan to reuse it.

Why Bumper Ads matter

Bumper ads matter because they deliver efficient reach in video inventory with minimal disruption. Their brevity forces clarity, which can improve recall when repeated. They also reinforce longer creatives by keeping the core message top of mind.

  • Reach: Efficient impressions in video inventory.
  • Recall: Clear, consistent messages build memory.
  • Support: Reinforces longer creative in the same flight.

How Bumper Ads work

Bumper ads work by compressing a single idea into six seconds or less. Supply platform‑compliant short videos with subtitles and safe zones so UI doesn’t cover copy. Open on the product and benefit, then close with a clear brand mnemonic or CTA. Use simple layouts and big type to maintain legibility on mobile. Keep cuts tight and motion purposeful to avoid confusion. Pair bumpers with longer assets so campaigns cover both awareness and reinforcement.

Best practices

  1. One idea per bumper; don’t cram.
  2. Open on the product and benefit.
  3. Use bold on-screen text; assume muted playback.
  4. Keep aspect ratios native, especially 9:16.
  5. Pair with longer creative for full-funnel coverage.

Key Takeaways

  • Bumper ads are 6-second non-skippable video ads designed for quick brand messages.
  • They work best for awareness, frequency, and reinforcing a simple, memorable message.
  • Keep creative simple with one clear idea, bold visuals, and minimal text.
  • Use bumper ads alongside longer formats to maximize reach and recall.
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FAQs
Are bumper ads skippable?
Bumper ads are often non-skippable depending on platform and placement; YouTube bumper ads are always non-skippable.
Can bumper ads work as a standalone strategy?
Bumper ads work best as part of a mix—use them to reinforce longer messages, not as standalone complete stories.
What's the ideal length for bumper ads?
Bumper ads are typically 6 seconds; some platforms allow up to 10 seconds, but shorter forces clearer messaging.
Should bumper ads have sound?
Design bumper ads for muted playback with captions and bold text; sound is optional but the creative must work without it.
How do I measure bumper ads success?
Measure bumper ads using completion rate, reach, frequency, brand lift, and downstream assisted conversions rather than direct clicks.