Magnetic Stripe Cards: Reliable Encoding for Secure Transactions

Welcome to Plastic Card ID: Where Every Card Tells a Story

There is something powerful about handing someone a card. It is solid, real, and stays with them. At Plastic Card ID, we have spent over 25 years helping businesses across the country make that kind of lasting impression. We ship plastic cards, card printers, and all the supplies you need, right to your door, no matter where you are in the nation.

Our team has helped more than 100,000 businesses find the right card solutions. From small boutiques to large corporations, we have seen firsthand how the right card can change the way a customer feels about a brand. That feeling of holding something real, something designed just for your business, is something no email or text message can replace.

Whether you are just getting started or ready to upgrade your current setup, we are here to help every step of the way. Give us a call, ask us anything, and let us find the perfect solution for your needs. Reach us anytime at 800-835-7919 and let us get started together.

The Power of Physical Cards in a Digital Age

Even as the world goes increasingly digital, physical cards continue to hold remarkable value. Studies show that customers who carry a loyalty or gift card from a business are far more likely to return and spend more money. There is a psychological connection that forms when someone holds something tangible that represents your brand and your promise to them.

We have seen retailers experience sales increases of up to 100% simply by switching from paper certificates to professional plastic gift cards. That is not a small difference. That is a transformation in how customers perceive and interact with a brand, and it starts with a single card in their hands.

Built on Trust, Driven by Results

With more than 50 million cards sold and a history spanning over a quarter of a century, our track record speaks for itself. We do not just print cards. We build partnerships. We learn what your business needs, and we deliver solutions that are designed to help you grow in a competitive market.

Our clients come back to us year after year because they trust us. They know that when they place an order, they are going to receive high-quality products that look professional, perform reliably, and help their business stand out. That kind of trust takes years to build, and we are proud of every relationship we have earned.

Nationwide Shipping, Always Ready

No matter where your business is located, we ship directly to you. From coast to coast, our fulfillment process is smooth, reliable, and built around your schedule. We understand that when you need cards or printer supplies, you need them fast and you need them right the first time.

Our nationwide reach means you never have to settle for a local printer that may not have the expertise or product range you need. We bring the full power of a premier card solutions provider right to your front door, with every order packed and shipped with care and precision.

Magnetic Stripe Cards: The Smart Choice for Modern Business

Among the many card types we offer, magnetic stripe cards stand out as one of the most versatile and widely used options in business today. Whether you are running a loyalty program, managing access control, or processing gift card transactions, magnetic stripe technology delivers dependable performance in a compact, professional format.

A magnetic stripe card works by storing data on a thin band of magnetic material on the back of the card. When swiped through a compatible reader, that data is read instantly, triggering whatever action your system is set up to perform. It is fast, accurate, and proven across millions of applications worldwide.

We offer magnetic stripe cards in both low-coercivity (LoCo) and high-coercivity (HiCo) formats, giving you the flexibility to match the right card to the right use case. Our team can walk you through the differences and help you choose what fits best for your specific program or system.

What Makes Magnetic Stripe Cards So Reliable?

The reliability of magnetic stripe technology comes from decades of refinement and widespread adoption. Nearly every point-of-sale system, hotel key reader, and membership scanner in the country is built to work with magnetic stripe cards. This compatibility makes them an incredibly practical choice for businesses of all sizes and industries.

Because the technology is so well-established, the cost of magnetic stripe cards is often lower than more advanced card types. This makes it easy to run large-scale loyalty programs or gift card campaigns without breaking the budget, while still delivering a polished, professional product to your customers.

Common Uses for Magnetic Stripe Cards

The range of applications for magnetic stripe cards is broad and impressive. Businesses across many industries rely on them every single day to keep operations running smoothly and to maintain strong connections with their customers and members.

• Gift cards and store value cards
• Customer loyalty and rewards cards
• Hotel room key cards
• Access control and employee ID badges
• Membership and club cards
• Transit and transportation passes
• Library cards and student ID cards

No matter which of these uses fits your business, we have the magnetic stripe cards and the expertise to make your program a success. Our team is ready to help you design, print, and deploy cards that work exactly the way you need them to.

LoCo vs. HiCo: Understanding Your Options

Low-coercivity (LoCo) magnetic stripe cards are ideal for applications where the data on the card changes frequently, like hotel key cards that are re-encoded for each new guest. They are easy to encode and re-encode, making them perfect for short-term or rotating use. The stripe on a LoCo card is typically gold or light brown in color.

High-coercivity (HiCo) magnetic stripe cards are built for longer-term use and are much more resistant to accidental erasure from everyday magnetic fields. These are the cards you want for loyalty programs, gift cards, and ID badges that need to last for months or even years. The HiCo stripe is usually dark brown or black and requires a more powerful encoder to write data.

Our Full Product Lineup: Cards for Every Purpose

We carry a wide and impressive range of plastic card types to meet virtually any business need. Whatever your goal, whether it is rewarding loyal customers, securing your facility, or promoting your brand in a creative new way, we have a card product that fits. Our lineup has been shaped by years of listening to what businesses actually need.

Below is a look at some of the most popular card categories we offer. Each one has been carefully selected and refined based on real-world feedback from the businesses we serve every day across the country.

Gift Cards That Drive Real Revenue

Gift cards are one of the most powerful sales tools available to any retailer or service business. When you offer a professional plastic gift card, you are not just selling a product. You are selling the promise of your brand, wrapped in something a customer can give to someone they care about. That creates new customers and brings existing ones back.

We have seen businesses boost their gift card revenue by 35-50% simply by making the switch from paper alternatives to professional plastic. The card itself sends a message that your business is serious, polished, and ready to deliver a great experience. That impression starts before the card is even used.

Loyalty Cards That Keep Customers Coming Back

A well-designed loyalty card program is one of the most cost-effective ways to build repeat business. When customers know they are earning something with every purchase, they are far more likely to choose your business over a competitor. Our loyalty cards are built to reinforce that choice every time they open their wallet.

We help you design and produce loyalty cards that reflect your brand beautifully and work seamlessly with your existing systems. Whether you use a simple punch system or a sophisticated digital point-tracking platform, we have a card that will fit right in and make your program look professional from day one.

Specialty Cards for Unique Needs

Sometimes a standard card is not enough. For businesses that want to make an extraordinary impression, we offer specialty card options that push the boundaries of what a card can be. These are the cards that make people stop, look twice, and talk about your brand to others.

• Clear or frosted transparent plastic cards
• Custom-shaped cards cut to unique outlines
• Luxury metal cards in stainless steel or gold
• Postcard mailers with double the response rate of traditional mail
• Oversized or mini card formats for special campaigns

Card Printers and Supplies: Everything You Need In-House

Printing your own cards in-house is a smart move for many businesses. It gives you control over your production timeline, lets you personalize cards on demand, and can save you significant money over time. We carry a full selection of professional card printers and all the supplies needed to keep them running smoothly.

From single-sided desktop printers to high-volume dual-sided systems, our printer lineup covers every need and budget. We also stock the ribbons, cleaning kits, blank card stock, and encoding equipment to make sure your operation never misses a beat. Call us at 800-835-7919 to find out which setup is right for your business.

Choosing the Right Card Printer

Not every business has the same printing needs, and we understand that. A small gym handing out 50 membership cards a month has very different requirements than a university printing thousands of student ID cards each semester. We help you match the right printer to your real-world volume and feature requirements.

Entry-level printers are great for low-volume needs and typically run in the $400-$900 range. Mid-range models offer faster throughput and dual-sided printing in the $900-$2,500 range. High-volume professional units designed for large-scale card production can run $2,500-$6,000 or more, offering features like lamination, encoding, and batch processing.

Printer Ribbons and Refill Supplies

A printer is only as good as the supplies running through it. We stock a comprehensive range of printer ribbons and refill kits to keep your card printer performing at its best. Using the right ribbon for your specific printer model ensures sharp, vibrant prints every single time you run a card through.

• Full-color YMCKO ribbons for vivid, photo-quality prints
• Monochrome ribbons for fast, single-color printing
• Overlay ribbons for added card protection
• Cleaning kits to maintain print head performance
• Blank PVC card stock in standard CR80 size

Encoding and Accessory Equipment

Beyond the printer itself, we offer a range of encoding and accessory equipment to round out your card production capability. Magnetic stripe encoders, smart card readers, and barcode scanners can all be added to your setup to expand what your cards can do and how your system reads them.

We also carry card laminators, card cutters, and ID badge holders and accessories to help you present your finished cards professionally. Whether you need a simple badge reel or a full lanyard and holder setup, we have what you are looking for ready to ship nationwide.

Membership and ID Cards: Belonging Starts with a Card

There is something meaningful about being handed a card that says you belong somewhere. Whether it is a gym membership, a professional association credential, or a union card, that piece of plastic communicates identity, trust, and inclusion. We specialize in creating these kinds of cards with the care and quality they deserve.

Our membership and ID card solutions are used by organizations of all kinds, from local clubs to national unions, from private schools to large healthcare networks. Each card we produce is a reflection of the organization's identity and a token of trust extended to the cardholder.

Secure Employee and Student ID Badges

Employee and student ID badges do more than just identify a person. They establish authority, create security checkpoints, and signal to everyone in a facility who is authorized to be there. A well-designed, professionally printed ID badge communicates that an organization takes safety and professionalism seriously.

We produce ID badges with a range of security features including magnetic stripes for access control, barcodes for time and attendance tracking, and photo printing for visual identification. Our team can help you design a badge system that integrates smoothly with your existing security infrastructure.

Alumni and Association Cards

Alumni cards and professional association credentials are more than just marketing pieces. They are symbols of achievement and community that cardholders are proud to carry. A beautifully printed, durable plastic alumni card keeps your institution top of mind and strengthens the emotional connection between your organization and its members for years to come.

We work with schools, universities, trade associations, and professional organizations to produce cards that reflect the prestige and purpose of their brand. Every detail, from the color palette to the finish, is carefully considered to create something that members will genuinely value and keep.

Union and Credential Cards

Union membership cards represent solidarity, hard work, and the power of collective identity. We produce durable, high-quality union cards that members are proud to carry in their wallets and present with confidence. These cards are built to last through years of daily use without fading, cracking, or losing their professional appearance.

From local chapters to national organizations, we have the experience and production capability to handle union card orders of any size. Our team understands the importance of accuracy and security in credential printing, and we take every order seriously from design to delivery.

Access Control and Security Cards: Protecting What Matters

Security is never something to take lightly, and the right access control card system can make a real difference in keeping your facility, your data, and your people safe. We offer a robust selection of access control card technologies to fit every security requirement and budget level.

From basic magnetic stripe door access cards to sophisticated RFID contactless smart cards, our lineup covers the full spectrum of security card applications. We also work closely with businesses to help them understand which technology is best suited to their specific environment and threat profile.

RFID and Contactless Smart Cards

RFID smart cards represent the cutting edge of access control and identification technology. With a simple tap, they communicate wirelessly with a reader, granting or denying access in a fraction of a second. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas where speed and security both matter enormously.

We offer smart cards built on popular platforms including MIFARE DESFire, which provides strong encryption and multi-application capability. These cards can be programmed to handle multiple functions, from building access to cashless vending, on a single card. That kind of versatility makes them a smart investment for forward-thinking organizations.

Hotel Key Cards and Casino Player Cards

Hotel key cards and casino player cards are specialized products that require both technical precision and visual polish. A hotel key card is often the first thing a guest touches when they arrive and the last thing they handle before they leave, making it a powerful branding opportunity that many properties overlook.

Casino player cards serve a different but equally important role. They are the backbone of player tracking programs that keep guests engaged, reward their loyalty, and provide the casino with invaluable data about player behavior and preferences. We produce these cards with the durability and encoding precision these demanding environments require.

Custom Access Control Programs

Every facility has unique security needs, and a one-size-fits-all solution rarely works well in practice. We help businesses design custom access control card programs that are tailored to their specific layout, traffic patterns, and security goals. Our experience across dozens of industries means we bring real-world insight to every conversation.

Whether you need cards for a single-door office entry system or a multi-building campus with hundreds of access points, we have the products and knowledge to build a program that works. Our customized approach ensures your security cards do exactly what you need them to do, every time.

Value-Added Services: More Than Just Cards

We believe in making things easy for the businesses we serve. That is why we go beyond simply printing cards and offer a full range of value-added services that take the work off your plate and deliver a complete, ready-to-use solution. From packaging to mailing, we handle it all so you can focus on running your business.

Our value-added services are designed to complement every card program we produce. They are not afterthoughts. They are a core part of how we deliver exceptional value to every client, every single time. We are your one-stop shop for everything plastic card related.

Custom Card Carriers and Sleeves

A card presented in a beautifully designed carrier or sleeve makes a far stronger impression than one handed over alone. Our custom card carriers and sleeves are designed to complement your card perfectly, creating a cohesive branded package that feels intentional and polished from the very first moment a customer receives it.

We offer carriers and sleeves in a wide range of styles, sizes, and finishes to match any card program or campaign. Whether you want something simple and clean or bold and creative, our design team can help you create the perfect package that tells your brand story from the outside in.

Card Affixing and Mailing Services

Sometimes you need your cards to go directly to your customers, not just to your office. Our full-service card affixing and mailing solutions take that challenge completely off your hands. We can attach your printed cards to mailers, stuff envelopes, apply postage, and drop everything directly into the mail stream on your behalf.

This service is especially popular for businesses launching new loyalty programs, gift card campaigns, or membership renewals. Instead of managing a complicated mailing project internally, you simply hand it to us and we handle everything from start to finish with professional efficiency and care.

Postcard Mailers with Proven Results

Our plastic postcard mailers are a unique and highly effective direct mail tool that consistently outperforms traditional paper mailers. Because they are made of durable plastic, they stand out in the mailbox, feel different in the hand, and are far less likely to be discarded without a second look. That physical difference translates into response rates that are often double those of standard paper alternatives.

We design, print, and mail these postcard campaigns with precision and creativity. If you are looking for a direct mail strategy that actually gets attention and drives action, our plastic postcard mailers are a proven solution that we are proud to offer to businesses nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Products and Services

We get a lot of great questions from businesses exploring card solutions for the first time or looking to expand what they are already doing. We have pulled together some of the most common questions and answers below to help you understand what we offer and how we can help your business succeed.

If you do not see your question answered here, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team directly. We love talking cards, and we are always happy to dig into the details with you. Call us at 800-835-7919 and let us answer your questions personally.

How Long Does Production and Shipping Take?

Production and shipping times vary depending on the type of card, the quantity ordered, and the level of customization involved. Standard plastic card orders typically ship within 5-10 business days after artwork approval. Rush options are available for time-sensitive projects, so be sure to ask our team about expedited turnaround when you place your order.

Once your order ships, delivery times depend on your location. We ship nationwide, so most customers receive their orders within 2-5 business days after the order leaves our facility. We keep you updated throughout the process so you always know where your order stands and when to expect it.

What File Formats Do You Accept for Card Artwork?

We work with a range of standard design file formats to make the submission process as easy as possible for your team. High-resolution PDF, AI, EPS, and PSD files all work well for card artwork. We recommend files be set up at 300 DPI or higher at actual card size to ensure the crispest, clearest print quality possible on your finished cards.

If you do not have a designer on staff, do not worry. Our in-house design team can help you create or refine your card artwork at a reasonable cost. We want your cards to look great, and we have the talent and tools to make that happen even if you are starting from scratch with only a logo and a vision.

Can I Order Small Quantities?

Yes, we accommodate a wide range of order quantities to serve businesses of every size. Whether you need a small run of 100 cards for a new program launch or a massive order of 50,000 cards for a national campaign, we can handle it. Our pricing scales with quantity, so larger orders naturally come with better per-card pricing.

For businesses just starting out or testing a new card program, smaller orders are a great way to see how your design looks in real life and how your customers respond before committing to a larger run. We are happy to walk you through the quantity options and help you find the sweet spot between budget and value.

Case Studies: Real Results from Real Businesses

Nothing tells a story better than real results from real businesses. Over the years, we have helped thousands of companies transform their customer engagement and revenue through smart, well-executed card programs. Here are a few examples that illustrate what is possible when you work with the right partner.

These stories represent just a small sample of the outcomes we help create every day. Every business is different, but the common thread is that a well-designed, professionally produced card program consistently delivers results that exceed expectations. We are proud to be the partner behind so many of these success stories.

Local Boutique Doubles Gift Card Revenue

A small women's clothing boutique in the Midwest had been offering paper gift certificates for years with modest success. When they switched to professionally printed plastic gift cards through us, the results were dramatic. Within the first holiday season, their gift card revenue nearly doubled, and many of the new cardholders became first-time customers who later returned as regulars.

The boutique owner told us that the cards themselves became a conversation starter. Customers would compliment the design and ask where the cards were from, giving the boutique an unexpected boost in word-of-mouth awareness. That is the kind of result that only a high-quality physical product can deliver.

Regional Gym Chain Grows Membership with Loyalty Cards

A regional fitness chain with 12 locations wanted to increase member retention and reduce churn. They launched a loyalty card program using our custom-printed magnetic stripe cards and paired it with a simple point-reward system at the front desk. Within six months, member retention rates had improved measurably, and staff reported that members regularly asked about their point balances and reward options.

The chain's marketing director noted that the physical card made the loyalty program feel real and official in a way that a simple app or punch card never had. Members carried the card in their wallets, saw the brand every time they opened them, and felt a stronger connection to the gym as a result. That is the power of a physical card done right.

Hotel Property Upgrades Guest Experience with Custom Key Cards

A boutique hotel in a competitive tourist destination was looking for ways to improve the guest experience from the very first moment of check-in. They invested in custom-designed hotel key cards that featured beautiful full-color artwork showcasing the property's aesthetic and brand identity. The response from guests was immediate and enthusiastic.

Guests began keeping the cards as souvenirs, which extended the hotel's brand reach long after check-out. Several guests shared photos of the cards on social media, generating organic exposure that the hotel had never experienced before. A simple upgrade to a beautifully designed key card produced marketing results that far exceeded the modest cost of the cards themselves.

Why Businesses Trust Plastic Card ID Again and Again

Trust is earned one order at a time, and we have been earning it for over 25 years. The businesses that come to us tend to stay with us, not because they feel locked in, but because the experience of working with our team is genuinely excellent. We are knowledgeable, responsive, and deeply committed to getting things right for every client, every time.

Our team is made up of people who genuinely care about the work they do and the businesses they serve. When you call us, you are not going to reach a complicated automated phone system or wait days for a response. You are going to talk to someone who knows cards, knows your options, and wants to help you find the best solution for your needs.

Expertise That Makes a Real Difference

We have been in this industry long enough to know that the details matter enormously. The difference between a card that wows a customer and one that gets thrown in a drawer often comes down to small decisions, the finish, the color calibration, the encoding method, the packaging. Our team brings that level of attention to every project we take on.

When you work with us, you get access to decades of accumulated knowledge about what works in the real world. We can tell you which card type performs best for your specific application, which printer will handle your volume without breaking down, and which ribbon will give you the sharpest, most consistent results. That kind of expertise is something you simply cannot find everywhere.

Competitive Pricing Across the Board

High quality does not have to mean high cost. We work hard to offer competitive pricing across our entire product lineup because we believe great cards should be accessible to businesses of every size and budget. Whether you are ordering 250 gift cards or 25,000 loyalty cards, we price our products fairly and transparently so there are no surprises when your invoice arrives.

We also offer volume discounts that make it easy to save money as your card program grows. Many of our long-term clients started small and scaled up over time, and our pricing structure is designed to reward that kind of growth. The more you order, the more value you get, and we are always upfront about what each level of commitment will cost you.

A Seamless Experience from Start to Finish

From your first call to the moment your cards arrive at your door, we are focused on making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our ordering process is straightforward, our artwork review is thorough, our production is precise, and our shipping is reliable. We have built our entire operation around making it easy to do business with us.

We follow up, we communicate proactively, and we stand behind everything we ship. If something is ever not right, we make it right. That commitment to the full customer experience is why so many businesses come back to us order after order and why we have maintained strong relationships with clients across every industry for over two and a half decades.

Ready to Order? Let's Make It Happen - Contact Plastic Card ID Today

Every great card program starts with a single conversation, and we are ready to have that conversation with you right now. Whether you know exactly what you need or you are just beginning to explore your options, our team is here to listen, advise, and guide you toward the solution that is going to make the biggest positive impact for your business.

We ship plastic cards, card printers, and all refill supplies nationwide, right to your door, with the speed and reliability you need to keep your business moving. From custom magnetic stripe cards to full loyalty card programs, from hotel key cards to luxury metal cards, we have the product and the expertise to deliver exactly what you are looking for.

Call Plastic Card ID now at 800-835-7919 and let us put our 25 years of card expertise to work for your business. Your next great card program is just one phone call away.

How to Place Your Order

Placing an order with us is simple and straightforward. Just call us at 800-835-7919, tell us what you need, and our team will walk you through the entire process. We will ask a few questions to make sure we understand your goals, walk you through your product options, and put together a quote that fits your budget and timeline.

Once you approve your artwork and confirm your order, we get to work right away. Our production team is fast, precise, and committed to delivering results that exceed your expectations. We handle everything so you can stay focused on running your business while we take care of producing and shipping your cards.

What to Have Ready When You Call

To make your first call as productive as possible, it helps to have a few pieces of information ready before you dial. Knowing your approximate quantity, your intended use for the cards, and any existing brand assets like logos or color codes will help us move quickly and give you accurate pricing right away. That said, even if you are starting from zero, we can help you figure out the details together.

• Approximate card quantity needed
• Intended use for the cards (loyalty, gift, access, ID, etc.)
• Any existing brand guidelines or artwork files
• Your desired timeline for delivery
• Any special features needed (magnetic stripe, RFID, custom shape, etc.)

Join Thousands of Satisfied Businesses Nationwide

More than 100,000 businesses have already discovered the difference that professional plastic cards can make. They have seen higher sales, stronger customer loyalty, better security, and more memorable brand experiences. Now it is your turn to experience those same results with the help of our dedicated team of card experts.

Do not wait to start building the card program your business deserves. Call PCID today at 800-835-7919, and let us help you create something your customers will notice, appreciate, and carry with them long after their first visit to your business. We are ready when you are.