How to Choose the Best Asset Tags for Your Equipment
One of the most important factors is the material of the asset tags. The material determines how durable, reliable, and cost-effective your asset tags will be.In this post, we will compare the different materials for asset tags and help you decide which one is best for your equipment. We will also provide a decision framework for making a selection based on your needs and budget.
Asset tags are labels that are attached to your equipment to identify and track them. They can help you manage your inventory, prevent theft, and maintain your assets. But how do you choose the best asset tags for your equipment? There are many factors to consider, such as the type, size, shape, color, design, barcode, and security features of the asset tags.
However, one of the most important factors is the material of the asset tags. The material determines how durable, reliable, and cost-effective your asset tags will be. In this post, we will compare the different materials for asset tags and help you decide which one is best for your equipment. We will also provide a decision framework for making a selection based on your needs and budget.
The Different Materials for Asset Tags
We will cover five main materials for asset tags: paper, vinyl, polyester, aluminum foil, and anodized aluminum. Each material has its own pros and cons, depending on the application and environment.
All prices are estimates made on desk research on July 2023. Subject to changing, dependent on various variables. But, this should work as an indication.
Material
Price Range
Pros
Cons
Paper
$0.10 - $0.20 per label
Very low cost, easy to print and apply, available in different colors and shapes
Not durable at all, prone to fading, tearing, peeling, water damage, and tampering
Vinyl
$0.14 - $0.29 per label
Low cost, easy to print, flexible, water-resistant
Not very durable, prone to fading, tearing, and peeling
Polyester
$0.29 - $0.69 per label
Durable, laminated, chemical-resistant, easy to clean, glossy finish
More expensive than vinyl, not very conformable, may not withstand extreme temperatures or abrasion
Aluminum foil
$0.29 - $0.69 per label
Durable, metalized, abrasion-resistant, chemical-resistant, weather-resistant, conformable
More expensive than vinyl or polyester, may not withstand very high temperatures or UV rays
Anodized aluminum
$0.69 - $1.49 per label
Very durable, embedded print, abrasion-resistant, chemical-resistant, weather-resistant, high-bond adhesive, guaranteed to last over 30 years
Most expensive option, not very flexible or conformable, may require custom design and installation
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