Magnetic Stripe Cards: Reliable Encoding for Secure Transactions

Welcome to Plastic Card ID: Your Trusted Source for Magnetic Stripe Cards and More

There is something powerful about handing someone a card. It is solid, it is real, and it says something about your brand that a text message simply cannot. At Plastic Card ID, we have spent over 25 years helping businesses across the country make that kind of lasting impression with high-quality plastic cards, including one of our most popular and versatile products: magnetic stripe cards. We ship everything you need, nationwide, right to your door.

We have served more than 100,000 businesses and printed over 50 million cards. That is not just a number. That is proof that what we do works. Whether you are a small boutique looking for gift cards or a large organization needing secure ID badges, we bring the same level of care and craftsmanship to every single order. Our team is ready to help you find the right solution for your exact needs.

From card printers to ribbon refills and everything in between, we are your one-stop shop. Getting started is easy. Just reach out to us at 800-835-7919 and let us walk you through our full lineup. You will be glad you called.

What Makes Magnetic Stripe Cards So Useful

Magnetic stripe cards have been a business staple for decades, and for good reason. The thin stripe on the back of the card stores data that can be read by a swipe or scan, making transactions fast, smooth, and reliable. For businesses that handle frequent customer interactions, this kind of speed matters more than people realize.

Whether you are running a gym, a hotel, a restaurant, or a retail store, magnetic stripe technology fits right in. It works with most existing card readers, so you do not need to overhaul your entire system just to get started. We make it easy to upgrade your card program without the headaches.

Industries That Rely on Magnetic Stripe Technology

From healthcare to hospitality, magnetic stripe cards are used across a huge range of industries. Hotels use them as room key cards. Retailers use them for loyalty and gift programs. Casinos use them for player tracking. The list goes on and on, and we are proud to serve all of them with top-quality products.

The beauty of magnetic stripe cards is their flexibility. You can customize the design on the front while the stripe does all the heavy lifting on the back. This means your card can look stunning and still function perfectly in any reader your business uses. That combination of form and function is hard to beat.

Our Nationwide Shipping Promise

No matter where your business is located, we make sure your cards arrive safely and on time. We ship magnetic stripe cards, card printers, ribbons, and all refill supplies to every corner of the country. You should never have to worry about running out of what you need to keep your card program running smoothly.

Our shipping process is straightforward and reliable. Once your order is placed and your design is approved, we get to work right away. We take pride in delivering quality products that meet your expectations every single time, whether it is your first order or your fiftieth.

The Power of Plastic: Why Physical Cards Still Win

In a world flooded with apps and digital everything, it might seem like physical cards are on the way out. But the numbers tell a very different story. Businesses that switch from paper certificates to plastic gift cards often see sales jump by as much as 100%. That is a massive difference, and it is all because plastic just feels more valuable.

When a customer holds a well-made plastic card, they are more likely to keep it, use it, and come back. It sits in a wallet, not in a junk drawer. That kind of staying power is exactly what your brand needs to stay top of mind in a competitive market. We help you create that experience.

Gift Cards That Drive Real Results

Gift cards are one of the smartest marketing investments a business can make. Studies show they can boost sales by 35-50%, and that is before you factor in the customers who spend more than the card is worth when they redeem it. When you invest in high-quality plastic gift cards, you are investing in repeat business and new customers at the same time.

We produce gift cards with vivid, full-color printing and durable laminate finishes that hold up to everyday use. Whether you want a classic look or something bold and eye-catching, our team helps bring your vision to life. Your brand deserves a card that reflects the quality you deliver.

Loyalty Cards That Keep Customers Coming Back

Loyalty programs work. Customers who feel rewarded are far more likely to return, and a well-designed loyalty card makes your program feel official, polished, and worth participating in. We produce loyalty cards in all shapes and sizes, with magnetic stripe encoding options that make tracking points and rewards a breeze.

Think about the last time you pulled a loyalty card out of your wallet. It reminded you of that business, even before you walked in the door. That is free advertising every single time a customer looks through their wallet. Our loyalty cards are built to make that kind of impression and keep it.

Postcard Mailers That Get Noticed

Our plastic postcard mailers deliver double the response rate of traditional paper mailers. When your promotional piece feels different from everything else in the mailbox, people stop and look. That extra moment of attention can make all the difference between a customer who calls and one who tosses your message in the recycling bin.

We can design, print, and help you mail plastic postcards that make your brand impossible to ignore. From seasonal promotions to grand opening announcements, plastic postcard mailers are a bold and effective way to reach your audience directly where they live. It is direct mail done right.

Membership and Identity Solutions Built for Every Organization

Whether you are running a club, a union, an alumni organization, or a corporate office, having a professional identity card system sends the right message. It tells members and employees that they belong somewhere that takes itself seriously. We specialize in creating membership and ID cards that build that sense of community and trust.

We do not just print cards. We help you think through the full system, from design to encoding, so that every card serves a real purpose. Our team understands the different needs of different organizations, and we bring that knowledge to every project we take on.

Secure ID Badges for the Workplace

A good ID badge does more than identify an employee. It controls access, builds accountability, and gives your whole operation a more professional look. We produce ID badges with magnetic stripe encoding that can be used with your existing access control systems, making integration simple and affordable.

Our ID badges are printed on durable PVC stock that holds up to daily wear and tear. They resist fading, bending, and the general abuse that comes with being used every single day. When you invest in quality ID badges from us, you are investing in your team's safety and your company's image at the same time.

Alumni and Club Membership Cards

There is something special about receiving an official membership card. It makes the connection feel real and meaningful, whether that connection is to a university, a club, or a professional organization. We produce beautifully printed alumni and membership cards that members are proud to carry and show off.

We offer full customization, including your logo, colors, member name, and any encoding you need on the magnetic stripe. These cards can be tied into your membership management software for easy tracking and renewal. The result is a card program that runs smoothly and looks great doing it.

Union and Credential Cards That Command Respect

Union cards and professional credentials carry real weight. They represent years of work, dedication, and membership in something bigger than oneself. We take that seriously, which is why we produce these cards with the same attention to detail and quality that we bring to every product we offer.

From the design to the encoding, every element of a union card we produce is handled with care. We understand that these cards are more than just pieces of plastic. They are symbols of identity and belonging, and they deserve to be made with pride. We are honored to help produce them.

Advanced Security and Access Control Cards

Card Type	Technology	Common Use
Hotel Key Cards	Magnetic Stripe	Room Access
RFID Smart Cards	Contactless / MIFARE	Office Security
Casino Player Cards	Magnetic Stripe	Player Tracking
Access Control Badges	Mag Stripe / RFID	Building Entry

Security is not something any business can afford to take lightly. Whether you are managing access to a hotel floor, tracking players across a casino floor, or controlling entry into a corporate facility, the right card technology makes all the difference. We offer a wide range of secure card options built for real-world performance.

Our access control cards are engineered to work reliably with the systems you already have in place. From magnetic stripe hotel key cards to RFID smart cards with MIFARE DESFire contactless technology, we have a solution that fits your security requirements and your budget. Every card we produce is made to perform day after day, swipe after swipe.

Hotel Key Cards That Work Every Time

A hotel guest's first impression often begins at the door to their room. If their key card fails, frustration sets in immediately. That is why we produce hotel key cards with reliable magnetic stripe encoding that holds its data through repeated use, in and out of pockets and wallets, trip after trip.

We also offer full custom printing on our hotel key cards, so your property's branding is the first and last thing guests see every time they use their card. From a cozy boutique inn to a large resort chain, we deliver the same consistent quality that keeps guests happy and front desk staff stress-free.

Casino Player Cards and Player Tracking Systems

Casino player cards are mission-critical. They drive loyalty, track player behavior, and form the backbone of comp systems that keep guests coming back to the floor. We produce casino player cards with precise magnetic stripe encoding that integrates smoothly with the tracking software casinos depend on every single day.

Beyond function, our casino cards look sharp. From full-bleed graphics to spot finishes, we can create a card that feels like a premium reward rather than just a functional tool. When a player pulls out your card, it should make them feel like a valued guest. That feeling keeps them playing and coming back.

RFID Smart Cards for Modern Security Needs

Contactless technology is the future of access control, and RFID smart cards are leading the way. Using MIFARE DESFire and other advanced contactless technologies, our RFID cards allow for fast, secure entry without any physical wear on the card or the reader. The result is a smarter, longer-lasting security system.

We produce RFID smart cards in standard credit card size as well as custom formats to match your specific system requirements. Whether you need a small batch for a startup office or thousands of cards for a sprawling corporate campus, we have the capacity and the expertise to deliver exactly what you need, on time and on spec.

Specialty Cards for Brands That Want to Stand Out

Some brands need more than a standard plastic card. They need something that makes people stop, look twice, and remember. That is where our specialty card options come in. From crystal-clear transparent cards to custom die-cut shapes and luxurious metal cards, we offer options that truly set your brand apart from the competition.

These are not gimmicks. They are strategic branding tools that create a tactile experience your customers will not forget. When your card feels different in someone's hand, it signals that your brand is different too. That kind of differentiation is priceless in a crowded market, and we help you achieve it.

Clear Plastic Cards That Make a Transparent Statement

Clear plastic cards have a modern, sophisticated look that standard opaque cards simply cannot match. When light passes through your card, your design takes on a whole new dimension. We produce clear and frosted plastic cards that are perfectly suited for high-end brands, tech companies, nightclubs, and any business that wants to project a premium image.

Despite their striking appearance, our clear cards are just as durable and functional as our standard cards. They accept magnetic stripe encoding, full-color printing, and even signature panels, so you never have to sacrifice function for style. With us, you get both in the same beautiful package.

Custom-Shaped Cards for Unforgettable First Impressions

Who says a card has to be a rectangle? Custom die-cut cards in shapes that reflect your brand or product are a creative way to get noticed and remembered. Imagine a car dealership handing out key-shaped loyalty cards, or a bakery using cards shaped like their signature pastry. These details make people smile and talk about your brand.

We produce custom-shaped cards with the same quality and durability as our standard lineup. The magnetic stripe can be placed on the back just like any regular card, so your unique shape does not interfere with how the card functions in a reader. It is creativity and utility working together perfectly.

Luxury Metal Cards That Speak for Themselves

Nothing communicates prestige quite like a metal card. Crafted from materials like stainless steel and gold-finish metal, our luxury metal cards are for brands that want their clients to feel genuinely special the moment the card is placed in their hand. The weight alone sends a message that words simply cannot.

We work with high-end service providers, exclusive membership clubs, and luxury brands to create metal cards that are as functional as they are impressive. From laser engraving to custom finishes, every detail is handled with precision and care. When you hand someone one of these cards, they remember it. That is the point.

Card Printers and Supplies: Everything You Need in One Place

Having the right cards is only half the equation. You also need the right equipment to print and manage them. We carry a full range of card printers, ribbons, cleaning kits, and refill supplies so that your entire card program runs without a hitch. Everything ships nationally, right to your business, whenever you need it.

We know that running out of printer ribbon in the middle of a busy day is a nightmare. That is why we make it easy to stock up in advance and reorder quickly when supplies run low. One call to 800-835-7919 and we will take care of everything from there. We are always here when you need us.

Popular Card Printers We Carry

We offer card printers for every level of use, from compact desktop models perfect for small businesses to high-volume industrial printers built for organizations that print hundreds or thousands of cards per day. No matter your volume, we have a machine that fits your workflow and your budget without compromise.

• Single-sided desktop card printers for low-volume needs
• Dual-sided printers for double-sided card designs
• High-volume batch printers for large organizations
• Retransfer printers for edge-to-edge printing on all card types
• ID card printers with built-in lamination for extra durability

Our team can help you choose the right printer based on your daily print volume, the type of cards you produce, and any special features you need, like lamination or encoding. We take the guesswork out of the decision so you can focus on running your business while we handle the technical details.

Ribbons, Laminates, and Refill Supplies

A great printer is only as good as the supplies you put in it. We stock a wide variety of printer ribbons, including full-color YMCKO ribbons, monochrome options, and specialty overlay ribbons that add a protective coating to your finished cards. Using the right ribbon makes a huge difference in the quality of the final product.

• YMCKO full-color ribbons for vibrant card printing
• Monochrome black ribbons for text and barcode printing
• Half-panel ribbons for cost-efficient mixed printing
• Overlay laminates for added scratch resistance
• Holographic laminates for added security features
• Cleaning kits to keep your printer running at peak performance

We carry supplies compatible with all major printer brands, so you are never left searching for the right product. Our team knows what works and what does not, and we will always point you toward the supplies that give you the best results for your specific equipment. Quality in equals quality out.

Blank Cards and Pre-Encoded Card Stock

Sometimes you need blank card stock to print on demand, and sometimes you need cards that arrive pre-encoded with your specific magnetic stripe data. We offer both. Our blank PVC cards are available in standard CR80 size and custom dimensions, with options for high-coercivity (HiCo) and low-coercivity (LoCo) magnetic stripes to match your system requirements.

Pre-encoded cards are perfect for businesses that want to skip the in-house encoding step and receive cards that are ready to use right out of the box. We handle the encoding at our facility with precision and consistency, so every card performs exactly as expected. It is one less thing for you to worry about, and we are happy to take it off your plate.

Custom Carriers, Sleeves, and Full-Service Mailing

A beautifully printed card deserves a presentation that matches. That is why we offer custom card carriers, protective sleeves, and full-service card affixing and mailing options that turn your card program into a complete, professional customer experience. We think about every detail so you do not have to.

Whether you are mailing loyalty cards to new members, gift cards to valued customers, or hotel key cards to pre-check-in guests, the packaging and delivery experience matters. When everything arrives looking polished and professional, it reinforces your brand's credibility from the moment the envelope is opened.

Custom Card Carriers That Reinforce Your Brand

A custom card carrier is more than a holder. It is a branded touchpoint that tells your customer exactly who you are before they even pick up the card inside. We design and produce card carriers in a wide range of styles, from simple single-fold designs to elaborate multi-pocket folders, all fully customizable with your logo and messaging.

These carriers are especially effective for gift card programs, welcome kits, and loyalty program enrollment packages. When someone receives a card in a beautifully designed carrier, the perceived value of the card itself goes up immediately. It is a small investment that delivers a big impression every single time.

Protective Sleeves That Keep Cards Safe

Magnetic stripe cards can lose their encoding when they come into contact with strong magnets or other magnetic stripe cards. Protective sleeves help prevent this kind of data loss, extending the life of your cards and saving your customers the frustration of a card that does not work. We offer sleeves in a variety of materials and finishes to match your brand's style.

Beyond protection, sleeves also give your card program a more finished, professional appearance. A card that arrives in its own sleeve feels like a thoughtful gift rather than a mass-produced item. These small details make a real difference in how your customers perceive and interact with your brand over time.

Full-Service Card Affixing and Mailing

If you want to mail cards directly to your customers but do not have the time or resources to do it in-house, we can handle the entire process for you. Our full-service affixing and mailing operation means we attach your cards to carriers, stuff envelopes, apply addresses, and drop everything in the mail, all from our facility.

This service is a game-changer for businesses running large-scale card distribution campaigns. Instead of tying up your staff for days, you hand the project off to us and it gets done right the first time. We take pride in being the kind of partner that makes your life easier, not harder.

Frequently Asked Questions About Magnetic Stripe Cards

We hear a lot of great questions from businesses that are exploring magnetic stripe cards for the first time or looking to upgrade their existing program. We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make a confident decision. Here are some of the most common questions we receive, along with straightforward answers.

If you do not see your question answered here, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to help. There is no question too small or too complex when it comes to building the right card program for your business.

What Is the Difference Between HiCo and LoCo Magnetic Stripes?

High-coercivity (HiCo) magnetic stripes are more resistant to accidental erasure and are ideal for cards that will be used frequently over a long period of time, such as hotel key cards, loyalty cards, and ID badges. Low-coercivity (LoCo) stripes are easier to encode but more susceptible to data loss if exposed to magnetic fields.

For most business applications, we recommend HiCo stripes because they hold up better to real-world use. The cost difference is minimal, but the performance difference is significant. When you place an order with us, our team will always help you choose the right coercivity level for your specific use case so your cards work perfectly every time.

How Many Cards Should I Order at One Time?

Order quantities depend on how many locations you have, how frequently you distribute cards, and whether you want to keep a buffer stock on hand. Many of our customers find that ordering in larger quantities saves money per card and reduces the frequency of reorders. We offer competitive pricing across a wide range of quantities to fit every budget.

Typical business orders range from a few hundred cards for a small local shop to tens of thousands for regional chains or large organizations. We work with all sizes comfortably and give every order the same level of attention and care. Call us at 800-835-7919 and we will help you figure out the right quantity for your needs.

Can I Reorder the Same Design Later?

Absolutely. We keep your design on file so that reordering is as simple as a quick phone call or message. We understand that consistency matters for brand identity, and we make it easy to get the exact same card every time you need more. No need to start from scratch or hunt down old files.

Our reorder process is fast and smooth. Once you have an approved design on file with us, turnaround on repeat orders is typically faster than the original production run. We value your repeat business and we show it by making the entire experience as seamless and convenient as possible.

Real Results: How Businesses Benefit From Our Card Programs

Numbers are great, but real stories are even better. Across more than 100,000 businesses, we have seen the impact that a well-executed card program can have on sales, customer retention, and brand perception. The results are consistently impressive, and they speak for themselves in ways that are hard to argue with.

From a family-owned boutique that tripled its gift card sales after switching to plastic, to a national hotel chain that reduced key card failures by 60% after upgrading to our HiCo cards, the evidence is clear. Investing in quality plastic cards is one of the smartest moves a business can make, and we are here to help you make it.

Case Study: Local Retail Shop Doubles Gift Card Revenue

A small retail gift shop in the Midwest had been using paper gift certificates for years. Sales were modest and customers rarely returned specifically to redeem them. After switching to our custom plastic gift cards with magnetic stripe encoding, they saw their gift card revenue nearly double within the first holiday season alone.

The owner credited the professional appearance of the cards with changing how customers perceived the brand. People were buying gift cards as gifts themselves, not just as last-minute fillers. The cards sat in wallets and purses instead of getting lost in drawers, which meant more redemptions and more repeat visits. That is the power of plastic done right.

Case Study: Fitness Studio Builds a Thriving Loyalty Program

A regional fitness studio chain launched a loyalty card program using our custom printed magnetic stripe cards. Members received a card at sign-up that tracked their visits and rewarded them with free classes and merchandise after reaching certain milestones. Within six months, member retention improved dramatically compared to the previous year.

The studio manager told us that members frequently mentioned the card as a reason they kept coming back. Something about carrying a physical reminder of their membership made the relationship feel more real and more worth maintaining. That is exactly the kind of emotional connection that a great card program creates, and we love hearing stories like this one.

Case Study: Hotel Brand Reduces Key Card Failures

A regional hotel brand was dealing with constant complaints about key cards failing mid-stay. After switching to our HiCo magnetic stripe hotel key cards, failures dropped sharply within the first quarter. Front desk staff spent less time re-encoding cards and more time delivering the kind of hospitality experience guests actually remember and rave about.

The hotel also took the opportunity to redesign their key card with our team, resulting in a beautiful, on-brand card that guests frequently commented on and occasionally kept as a souvenir. A card that looks and works great is a win on every level, and this brand saw that firsthand. We were proud to be part of their upgrade.

Our Complete Product Lineup at a Glance

We offer one of the most comprehensive plastic card product lines in the country. From the simplest blank card stock to the most elaborate custom metal card, we have something for every business at every budget level. Our product lineup is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of our clients across every industry.

Below is a snapshot of what we carry. If you are looking for something specific that you do not see here, give us a call. Chances are we can produce it or point you in the right direction. We are always here to help you find exactly what you need.

Types of Plastic Cards We Produce

• Magnetic stripe cards (HiCo and LoCo)
• Gift cards with full-color custom printing
• Loyalty and rewards cards
• Membership and club cards
• Employee ID badges
• Hotel key cards
• Casino player cards
• RFID and contactless smart cards
• Clear and frosted plastic cards
• Custom die-cut shaped cards
• Luxury stainless steel and gold metal cards
• Plastic postcard mailers
• Alumni and union credential cards

Every card type on that list is available with full customization, including your logo, brand colors, cardholder data, and any encoding or technology your program requires. We work with you from concept to delivery to make sure the final product is everything you envisioned and then some.

Card Printers and Accessories We Stock

1. Desktop single-sided card printers
2. Dual-sided card printers for double-sided designs
3. High-volume industrial card printers
4. Retransfer printers for edge-to-edge quality
5. Laminating printers for extra card durability
6. YMCKO and monochrome ribbon cartridges
7. Holographic and overlay laminate ribbons
8. Printer cleaning kits and maintenance supplies
9. Blank PVC card stock in multiple finishes
10. Card sleeves and protective holders
11. Custom card carriers and presentation folders

We stock supplies for all major card printer brands and can help you source whatever you need to keep your printing operation running at its best. Whether you need a full printer setup from scratch or just a box of ribbon cartridges, we have you covered from coast to coast.

Value-Added Services That Complete Your Card Program

Beyond cards and printers, we offer a full suite of services designed to make your card program as easy to manage as possible. From design assistance to full-service mailing, we handle the details so you can stay focused on what you do best: running your business and serving your customers.

Our value-added services include custom carrier design and printing, card affixing to carriers, addressed envelope preparation, and bulk mail drop services. We also offer encoding services for magnetic stripe and RFID cards, so your cards arrive ready to use right out of the shipping box. It truly is a one-stop solution.

Plastic Card ID: Ready to Help You Build Something Great - Call Us Today

Every great card program starts with a single conversation. Whether you know exactly what you want or you are just beginning to explore your options, our team at Plastic Card ID is ready to listen, advise, and deliver. We have helped over 100,000 businesses create card programs that drive real results, and we are excited to do the same for you.

We ship plastic cards, card printers, ribbons, and all refill supplies to businesses nationwide. No matter where you are, we will get you what you need, on time and on budget. Our process is simple, our quality is consistent, and our customer service is the kind that actually makes you want to call back.

Ready to get started? Call Plastic Card ID right now at 800-835-7919 and speak with a real person who is ready to help. Your next great card program is just one phone call away.

Why Businesses Choose Us Again and Again

Repeat customers are the backbone of everything we do. When a business calls us back for their fifth or fifteenth order, that tells us something important: we are delivering on our promise every single time. That kind of loyalty from our clients is something we never take for granted, and we work hard every day to keep earning it.

From the quality of the cards we produce to the responsiveness of our team, we hold ourselves to a high standard because we know your brand depends on it. When your cards look great and work perfectly, it reflects well on you. And when it reflects well on you, you come back to us. That is the relationship we strive to build with every single client we serve.

Partnering With PCID Is Easier Than You Think

Getting started with PCID does not require a long contract or a minimum order that breaks the bank. We work with businesses of all sizes and budgets, and our team will find the right solution for where you are right now, not just where you hope to be someday. We meet you where you are and help you grow from there.

The first step is simply picking up the phone and calling 800-835-7919. From there, our team takes care of everything. We will walk you through our product options, help you choose the right card type and technology for your needs, and provide a clear quote with no hidden fees or surprises. That is how we do business, and that is why our clients stay with us for years.

The Plastic Card ID Difference

What truly sets Plastic Card ID apart is not just the quality of our products, though that quality is exceptional. It is the way we approach every relationship. We treat every client, large or small, with the same level of attention and respect. Your success is genuinely important to us, and we back that up with the quality of work we deliver on every single order.

We are not just a printer. We are a strategic partner that understands the role that great cards play in building a successful business. When you work with us, you are getting the benefit of over 25 years of experience, more than 50 million cards printed, and a team that cares about your results as much as you do. That is the Plastic Card ID difference, and it shows in everything we do.