Our RAL paints are ideal for hobbies, DIY projects, and upcycling furniture — perfect when you want reliable, consistent colour. Use our RAL paint match to find your colours.
What is RAL?
The RAL colour coding system was developed in Germany in the 1920s — the acronym stands for “Reichs-Ausschuss für Lieferbedingungen”.
Today, it’s a colour matching system used internationally across various industries, including product design and architecture. RAL paint colours create the visual standards we see every day across applications as diverse as pipework and the iconic London bus.
RAL colours exist in three ranges:
- Classic includes colours commonly used on warning and traffic signs
- Design is tailored for professional design work with a range of sophisticated colours
- Effect colours include brights and metallics for striking visual effects
- Each standardised colour has a unique 4-digit code. For example, RAL 7016 is Anthracite Grey, ensuring consistent reproduction and colour matching for paint and coatings.
What are RAL colours used for?
RAL colours have multiple uses globally. Industry professionals appreciate the colour consistency across a huge palette. For example, RAL 5000, also known as Violet Blue, is commonly used in both creative and industrial applications and can be accurately reproduced using the RAL 4-digit code.
- Standardised colours: The RAL colour match system produces reliable results, whether you’re working on a single piece or a large-scale project.
- Consistent design language: RAL Classic colours are used by public bodies worldwide for traffic and warning signs, making them instantly recognisable wherever you are or whatever language you speak.
- Easy to use: Standardised paint colours and RAL codes make it easy to find your perfect shade without confusing names or similar shades that are tough to tell apart.
The 4-digit code is easy to follow: the first digit represents the colour, and the next three digits refer to the exact shade.
How to use the RAL colour finder
Looking for a RAL colour match for your next project?
- Search using the RAL 4-digit code: For instance, reds have a colour code starting RAL 3000.
- Shop our RAL range: Classic for industrial colours, Design for nuanced colours for professional designers, or Effects for specific visual aesthetics like metallics.
- Using our colour finder tool: You can browse popular shades or explore hues — such as cool greys or warm neutrals.
Once you have your RAL codes, you can order your desired paint colours.
Shop RAL paints with Auto Aerosol
At Auto Aerosol, we custom-mix RAL paint colours for consistent, professional-standard results.
As RAL paint suppliers, our high-quality products produce vibrant, reliable and long-lasting results. Use our handy colour finder to retrieve your paint colours and RAL codes and shop today.
FAQs
How many RAL colours are there?
We keep the most popular colours from the RAL range, depending on the product. The RAL system includes 216 Classic colours, 1,825 Design colours, and 490 Effect shades (including metallics), all using the same RAL code system for easy reference.
How does the RAL system work?
The RAL system assigns a standardised code to each colour. These are used across architecture, interior design and other creative industries to produce consistent colour matching, whatever the application.
Can I use RAL paint colours for touch ups on my vehicle?
Unfortunately, you can’t use RAL paint colours for touch ups and repairs. While each code specifies a colour, it doesn’t include the type of finish required. To find the perfect shade for your car or motorcycle, use our handy automotive paint code finder tool.
