Magnetic Stripe Cards: Reliable Encoding for Every Industry

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

There is something quietly powerful about handing someone a card. It is tangible, personal, and professional all at once. At Plastic Card ID, we have spent more than 25 years perfecting the art and science of plastic card printing, and magnetic stripe cards sit right at the heart of what we do best. We ship nationwide, so no matter where your business is located, we are ready to serve you.

Our team has worked with over 100,000 businesses and produced more than 50 million cards. That kind of track record does not happen by accident. It happens because we treat every order as a partnership, not just a transaction. When you need reliable, high-quality magnetic stripe cards, we are the team to call.

Whether you are launching a new loyalty program, upgrading your access control system, or simply replacing worn-out cards, we have the products, the printers, and the know-how to make it happen smoothly. Call us today at 800-835-7919 and let us show you what we can do.

What Makes Magnetic Stripe Cards So Valuable?

Magnetic stripe cards have been a cornerstone of business operations for decades, and for very good reason. The magnetic stripe on the back of the card stores data securely, allowing businesses to encode customer information, access credentials, or transaction data quickly and reliably. This technology is proven, cost-effective, and compatible with a wide range of card readers already in use across many industries today.

The beauty of magnetic stripe technology is its simplicity. A quick swipe is all it takes to retrieve stored information, complete a transaction, or grant access to a secured area. This ease of use makes these cards a favorite for businesses that want a professional, seamless experience for their customers and employees alike.

Industries That Rely on Magnetic Stripe Cards

Retail stores, hotels, gyms, restaurants, universities, and healthcare facilities are just a few of the many industries that depend on magnetic stripe cards every single day. These cards power loyalty programs that keep customers coming back, key card systems that protect sensitive areas, and membership programs that make people feel like they truly belong to something special.

We have helped businesses of every size and type find the right magnetic stripe card solution. From a small boutique launching its very first gift card program to a large casino managing thousands of player cards, our experience spans the full spectrum of business needs. We understand the unique demands of each industry, and we tailor our recommendations accordingly.

Encoding Options We Offer

Not all magnetic stripes are created equal. We offer cards with low-coercivity (LoCo) and high-coercivity (HiCo) magnetic stripes, depending on your specific needs. LoCo stripes are ideal for hotel key cards and short-term use, while HiCo stripes offer greater durability and data security for loyalty cards, gift cards, and access control applications.

Our encoding services mean you can receive cards that are ready to use right out of the box. We work with you to understand exactly what data needs to be stored, how many tracks you need encoded, and what equipment you are using on your end. This attention to detail is part of what makes working with us such a smooth and stress-free experience every time.

Why Magnetic Stripe Cards Still Rule the Business World

In a world full of apps and digital solutions, it might seem surprising that magnetic stripe cards are still thriving. But here is the thing: physical cards carry a weight and credibility that a smartphone notification simply cannot match. When a customer pulls out a branded loyalty card or gift card, it is a reminder of your business every single time they open their wallet.

Studies consistently show that businesses using plastic gift cards see sales increases of up to 100% compared to paper alternatives. Loyalty programs built around physical cards also drive repeat visits and higher average transaction values. These are not small wins. These are game-changers for businesses that want to grow in a meaningful and measurable way.

Gift Cards That Drive Real Revenue

Gift cards are one of the most powerful sales tools a business can have. When someone buys a gift card, they are essentially paying you in advance for a future visit. And research shows that most gift card recipients spend more than the card's face value, which means more revenue for your business with very little extra effort on your part.

Our custom-printed magnetic stripe gift cards look stunning and function flawlessly. We work with you on the design, the encoding, and even the packaging if needed. The result is a product that reflects your brand beautifully and works perfectly every single time a customer swipes it at the register.

Loyalty Cards That Keep Customers Coming Back

A well-designed loyalty program can increase customer retention dramatically. When customers have a physical card in their wallet that tracks their points or rewards, they are far more likely to choose your business over a competitor. It is a simple psychological truth: people want to use what they already carry. A loyalty card keeps your brand in their pocket and in their mind.

We design and produce loyalty cards that are both beautiful and durable. Our magnetic stripe loyalty cards are compatible with most point-of-sale systems, making integration into your existing setup simple and painless. We also offer bulk pricing that makes launching or scaling a loyalty program surprisingly affordable for businesses of all sizes.

Membership Cards That Create Belonging

There is something deeply satisfying about being a member of something. Whether it is a gym, a club, a professional association, or a VIP customer program, membership cards give people a sense of identity and belonging. A well-crafted membership card signals to the holder that they are valued and recognized, which builds emotional loyalty over time.

Our magnetic stripe membership cards can be encoded with member ID numbers, access permissions, and other relevant data. We print them in full color with your logo, branding, and any design elements that make your organization look its absolute best. Every card we produce is a small but powerful ambassador for your brand.

Our Complete Range of Plastic Card Products

Magnetic stripe cards are just one part of our impressive product lineup. We offer an extraordinarily wide range of plastic card solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of modern businesses. From sleek metal cards to crystal-clear transparent designs, our portfolio is as varied as the businesses we serve across the country.

No matter what type of card you need, we have the expertise and equipment to deliver it with precision and quality. We ship everything nationally, so your order arrives wherever you need it, on time and in perfect condition. Reach us at 800-835-7919 to discuss which products are the best fit for your specific goals.

Card Type	Common Uses	Available Features
Magnetic Stripe Cards	Gift, Loyalty, Access	HiCo / LoCo Encoding
RFID / Smart Cards	Access Control, Contactless	MIFARE DESFire Technology
Metal Cards	VIP, Premium Membership	Stainless Steel, Gold
Clear Plastic Cards	Promotional, Unique Branding	Custom Shapes Available
ID Badge Cards	Employee, Student, Member ID	Photo Printing, Barcodes

Specialty Cards for Unique Business Needs

Sometimes a standard card simply will not do. For businesses that want to make an unforgettable first impression, our specialty card options are the perfect answer. Clear plastic cards with vivid full-color printing create a dramatic visual effect that stops people in their tracks. Custom-shaped cards are conversation starters that set your brand apart from every competitor in your market.

Our luxury metal cards, crafted from materials like stainless steel or gold-finished metal, communicate prestige and exclusivity like nothing else can. When a VIP customer or high-value client receives one of these cards, they immediately understand that they are dealing with a business that takes quality seriously. It is a small investment with an enormous impact on perception and loyalty.

ID Badges and Secure Credential Cards

Beyond marketing applications, we also produce professional ID badges, alumni cards, union credentials, and other secure identity documents. These cards serve a dual purpose: they protect your organization by clearly identifying authorized personnel, and they foster a sense of pride and belonging among the people who carry them every day.

Our ID badge cards can include photos, barcodes, magnetic stripes, and other security features depending on your needs. We understand that identity cards carry a significant responsibility, and we take that seriously in every step of our production process. Every card we ship meets strict quality standards so you can trust what you are handing to your team members or members.

RFID and Smart Card Technology

For businesses that need contactless functionality, our RFID and smart card options deliver cutting-edge technology in a familiar card format. These cards use radio frequency identification to communicate with readers without physical contact, making transactions faster, more hygienic, and impressively modern. Applications include hotel room access, event ticketing, transit passes, and high-security facility entry.

We offer cards equipped with MIFARE DESFire technology, one of the most secure and widely used contactless card standards in the world today. Whether you are upgrading an existing access control system or building a brand-new smart card program from the ground up, our team has the experience and the products to guide you every step of the way.

Card Printers and Supplies for In-House Printing

Some businesses prefer to handle their card printing in-house for maximum flexibility and control. We fully support that approach by offering a carefully selected range of professional card printers and all the refill supplies you need to keep them running smoothly. From desktop models perfect for small offices to high-volume printers designed for enterprise operations, we have a printer for every need and every budget.

In-house printing gives you the ability to produce cards on demand, update designs quickly, and manage your inventory more efficiently. It is a smart investment for businesses that print cards regularly and want to reduce per-card costs over time. Our team is happy to help you find the right printer and set you up with everything you need to get started.

Top Card Printer Categories We Carry

Our printer lineup covers a broad range of applications and printing needs. Whether you need single-sided or dual-sided printing, standard or retransfer technology, we carry models that deliver sharp, vibrant, professional results every time. We stock printers from the most trusted brands in the industry, so you can buy with complete confidence in the quality and reliability of your investment.

• Single-sided direct-to-card printers for standard ID and loyalty cards
• Dual-sided printers for cards that need information printed on both sides
• Retransfer printers for edge-to-edge printing and superior image quality
• High-volume printers designed for large batch production runs
• Desktop compact printers ideal for smaller offices and low-volume needs

Beyond just selling the hardware, we also provide guidance on setup, maintenance, and best practices for getting the most out of your printer investment. We are a genuine one-stop shop that stays with you long after the initial sale, because your long-term success is what drives everything we do at our company every day.

Ribbons, Overlaminates, and Refill Supplies

A printer is only as good as the supplies that feed it. We carry a full range of color ribbons, monochrome ribbons, holographic overlaminates, and cleaning kits to keep your card printer running at peak performance. Using the right supplies is not just about quality; it also extends the life of your printer and protects your investment over the long term.

Our refill supply inventory includes options for virtually every major printer brand and model on the market. We make reordering easy and affordable, with competitive pricing and fast nationwide shipping so your operation never has to slow down waiting for supplies to arrive. Running low? Just call us and we will have your supplies on the way in no time.

Accessories That Complete Your Card Program

Great cards deserve great accessories. We offer a full selection of card carriers, sleeves, lanyards, badge holders, card mailers, and more to complement your card program and enhance the overall experience for your customers or employees. These finishing touches might seem small, but they contribute significantly to the professional impression your brand makes on every recipient.

We also offer full-service card affixing and mailing, which means we can handle the entire fulfillment process for you from printing all the way through delivery to the end recipient. This comprehensive service saves you time, reduces operational complexity, and ensures a polished, consistent experience for everyone who receives your cards no matter where they are located nationwide.

How We Handle Your Order From Start to Finish

Placing an order with us is designed to be straightforward and stress-free from the very first conversation. Our process starts with understanding exactly what you need, whether that is a specific card type, a particular quantity, custom artwork, or a combination of several products and services. We listen carefully and ask the right questions so nothing important gets missed or overlooked.

Once we understand your needs, our team gets to work on delivering exactly what was discussed, on time and to your exact specifications. We handle quality control at every stage of production, so what arrives at your door is precisely what you approved. Your satisfaction is not just a goal for us; it is a standard we hold ourselves to with every single order we fulfill.

Custom Design Support

Not everyone has a graphic designer on staff, and that is perfectly fine. Our team can work with your existing brand assets to create a card design that looks polished, professional, and completely on-brand for your business. We guide you through the process with clear communication and fast turnaround on proofs so you can see exactly what your cards will look like before we ever start printing.

If you already have artwork ready to go, we make the submission process easy and efficient. We accept most common file formats and provide clear guidelines for file preparation to ensure your design prints with the sharpness and color accuracy you expect. Our goal is always to make your cards look as impressive as possible because your cards reflect directly on your brand's reputation.

Fast Turnaround and Nationwide Shipping

We understand that business moves quickly, and waiting weeks for cards is not always an option. Our production process is optimized for efficiency without ever sacrificing quality, which means we can deliver orders faster than many people expect. We ship to every corner of the country, so no matter where your business is based, your order will arrive promptly and in perfect condition.

Rush orders are available for situations where timing is especially critical. If you are launching a promotion, preparing for a grand opening, or replacing cards unexpectedly, just let us know your deadline and we will do everything in our power to meet it. Fast, reliable delivery is one of the ways we earn the trust of our customers and keep them coming back order after order.

Reorder Management Made Simple

Once you have placed your first order with us, reordering is incredibly easy. We keep your design and specifications on file so you never have to start from scratch. A quick phone call or message is all it takes to get your next batch of cards into production. We also offer proactive reorder reminders to help you avoid ever running out of cards at a critical moment.

Many of our clients have been reordering with us for years, even decades, because the experience is consistently smooth and the quality is always exactly what they expect. That kind of long-term trust is what we are proudest of, and it is the result of genuinely caring about every client's success over the long haul rather than just making a quick sale.

Frequently Asked Questions About Magnetic Stripe Cards

We talk to hundreds of businesses every year who are curious about magnetic stripe cards but have questions before they dive in. That curiosity is completely understandable, and we love the opportunity to share what we know. Below are some of the questions we hear most often, along with straightforward answers that help businesses make confident, informed decisions.

If you do not see your question answered here, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is always ready to talk through the details and help you figure out exactly what solution makes the most sense for your specific situation and budget. No question is too basic or too complex for us to handle with genuine care and expertise.

What Is the Difference Between HiCo and LoCo Magnetic Stripes?

High-coercivity (HiCo) magnetic stripes are more resistant to accidental erasure and are better suited for long-term use. They require a stronger magnetic field to encode but hold data more reliably over time. These are the preferred choice for loyalty cards, gift cards, and any application where the card will be used repeatedly over a long period of months or years.

Low-coercivity (LoCo) magnetic stripes are easier to encode and are commonly used for hotel key cards, event access cards, and other short-term applications where the card will be used for a limited time before being replaced. Both types produce great results when matched to the right application, and our team will always help you choose the right one for your specific use case and environment.

How Many Cards Should I Order at Once?

The honest answer depends on how many cards your business uses in a typical month, along with your storage capacity and budget flexibility. Ordering in larger quantities almost always reduces your per-card cost significantly, which makes bulk ordering a financially smart move for most businesses. We offer pricing tiers that reward larger orders and help you maximize the value of every dollar you spend.

For businesses just getting started with a card program, we recommend starting with a quantity that covers at least three to six months of expected usage. This gives you enough cards to properly launch your program without overcommitting to a quantity that might become outdated if your design or branding changes. Our team will help you find the right balance between quantity, cost, and flexibility for your specific situation.

Can I Use My Existing Card Reader Equipment?

In most cases, yes. Magnetic stripe cards are designed to work with standard card readers that are already widely used across many industries. Our cards are compatible with the vast majority of point-of-sale systems, loyalty program software, and access control hardware already in use by businesses nationwide. We can discuss your specific equipment during the ordering process to confirm compatibility before production begins.

If you are unsure about compatibility, just call us at 800-835-7919 and describe your setup. Our team will quickly determine whether our cards will work with your existing system or whether any adjustments need to be made. We would rather have that conversation upfront than have any surprises after your cards arrive, because your time and your investment matter to us.

Case Study: How a Retail Chain Doubled Its Sales With Plastic Gift Cards

One of the most compelling examples of plastic card power comes from a mid-sized retail chain that switched from paper gift certificates to custom magnetic stripe gift cards. Within the first six months of launching their new card program, they saw a dramatic increase in gift card sales and, more importantly, a significant jump in overall store revenue driven by new customers redeeming those cards.

The results were not accidental. The combination of a professionally printed card that looked great, worked reliably, and integrated seamlessly with their existing POS system created a gift card experience that customers genuinely appreciated and actively sought out. That is the kind of outcome we work hard to help every business achieve through thoughtful, tailored card solutions.

The Challenge They Faced

Before switching to plastic cards, this retailer was using paper gift certificates that were easy to counterfeit, difficult to track, and frankly unimpressive in appearance. Customers were not excited to give or receive them, which severely limited the program's potential. The management team knew they needed a better solution but was not sure where to start or what to expect in terms of cost and complexity.

They came to us with a simple question: can you help us do this better? The answer, as always, was an enthusiastic yes. We walked them through the entire process, from design to encoding to fulfillment, and helped them launch a professional gift card program that looked like it belonged in a national retail chain rather than a small independent store, which is exactly the impression they wanted to make.

The Solution We Provided

We designed a series of stunning magnetic stripe gift cards in multiple denominations, ranging from $25-$500. Each card featured vibrant full-color printing on both sides, the retailer's logo prominently displayed, and a HiCo magnetic stripe encoded and ready to work with their existing POS system. We also provided custom card carriers that added a premium unboxing feel to the gift-giving experience.

• Full-color custom design reflecting the retailer's brand identity precisely
• HiCo magnetic stripe encoding for long-term durability and data reliability
• Multiple denomination options from $25-$500 to serve various customers
• Custom card carriers that elevated the gifting experience significantly
• Fast turnaround to meet the retailer's holiday season launch deadline

The entire project was completed ahead of the holiday season, giving the retailer maximum time to promote their new program. The launch was a tremendous success, and the client has reordered multiple times since then. Their story is one we are genuinely proud of, and it represents the kind of transformative result that is possible when the right card solution meets a business that is ready to grow.

The Power of Postcard Mailers and Promotional Cards

Direct mail is far from dead. In fact, when done right with high-quality plastic postcard mailers, it can be one of the most effective marketing tools a business has at its disposal. Our plastic postcard mailers achieve double the response rates of traditional paper mail, which means your marketing budget goes further and your campaigns deliver more measurable results than you might expect.

The reason plastic mailers outperform paper is simple: they stand out. When someone pulls a glossy, durable plastic card out of their mailbox alongside a stack of paper envelopes and flimsy flyers, it immediately commands attention. It feels different, looks different, and sends a clear message that the business behind it takes quality seriously and values the recipient's attention.

Why Plastic Postcard Mailers Work So Well

Plastic mailers are harder to throw away than paper mail, which means they stay in homes and offices longer and get seen more times before a decision is made. This extended shelf life dramatically increases the chances that the recipient will act on your offer. It is a simple but powerful advantage that savvy marketers have been leveraging for years with impressive and consistent results.

We can design and produce plastic postcard mailers that feature magnetic stripes, barcodes, or other functional elements that turn a simple piece of mail into an interactive marketing tool. Imagine a mailer that doubles as a discount card, a free trial pass, or an event ticket. The possibilities for creative, engaging direct mail campaigns are virtually limitless when you work with the right card partner.

Integrating Mailers Into Your Overall Marketing Strategy

The most effective use of plastic mailers is as part of a coordinated marketing campaign that reinforces your message across multiple channels. When a potential customer receives a beautiful plastic mailer and then sees your brand again online or in your store, the cumulative effect is powerful brand recognition and a much higher likelihood of conversion from prospect to paying customer.

We help businesses think through how their card programs and mailer campaigns can work together to create a cohesive, compelling customer journey. This kind of strategic thinking is what separates a good card program from a great one, and it is the kind of value-added guidance that you can expect from our team every time you work with us on a new project or campaign.

Casino, Hotel, and Hospitality Card Solutions

The hospitality industry has some of the most demanding and creative uses for plastic cards found anywhere in the business world. From casino player cards that track loyalty points and comps to hotel key cards that grant access to rooms and amenities, the right card solution is absolutely critical to a smooth, professional guest experience that keeps visitors coming back time and again.

We have extensive experience producing cards for casinos, hotels, resorts, and other hospitality businesses of all sizes. Our products meet the demanding standards of this industry, where reliability, durability, and professional appearance are non-negotiable requirements. When we say our cards work flawlessly, we mean every single swipe in every single environment we have ever served.

Casino Player Cards and Loyalty Programs

Casino player cards are the backbone of loyalty programs that keep gamblers engaged, track their activity, and deliver personalized rewards that make them feel valued and recognized. A well-designed player card program is one of the most powerful retention tools in the casino industry, and it all starts with a card that looks impressive and works perfectly every single time it is used on the floor.

We produce casino player cards with high-coercivity magnetic stripes, custom full-color printing, and any security features your operation requires. Our cards are designed to withstand the heavy daily use that casino environments demand, maintaining their appearance and functionality through thousands of swipes without degrading in quality or reliability, which is exactly what your guests and your operation need.

Hotel Key Cards That Impress Guests

A hotel key card is often one of the first branded items a guest touches during their stay. That small card sets the tone for the entire experience, which is why it is worth investing in a card that looks and feels premium. Our hotel key cards feature crisp, vibrant printing, LoCo magnetic stripe encoding, and a durability that holds up through the full length of any guest's stay without issues.

We also offer custom packaging options for hotel key cards, including sleeves printed with property information, promotional offers, or local attraction guides. These small additions elevate the check-in experience and create an immediate positive impression that guests associate with your property. It is a detail that costs very little but contributes meaningfully to overall guest satisfaction and loyalty.

Building Your Brand With Plastic Card ID

Every card we produce is a piece of your brand living in someone's wallet, purse, or pocket. That is an extraordinary form of brand exposure that most advertising simply cannot replicate. A card that is kept and used regularly creates ongoing, repeated impressions of your business without any additional investment on your part after the initial printing cost. That is remarkable marketing value by any measure.

We take our role as brand partners very seriously. Our design process is collaborative and focused on capturing the essence of what makes your business unique and memorable. From color selection to typography to finish choices, every decision we help you make is guided by one overarching question: will this card make your brand look its absolute best in the hands of the people who matter most to your success?

Full-Color Custom Printing That Stands Out

Our printing process delivers rich, accurate colors and sharp details that make your brand shine on every card we produce. We support full-color printing on both sides of the card, giving you maximum design real estate to communicate your brand's personality, showcase key offers, and include all the practical information your customers or employees need to use the card effectively.

The difference between a well-designed, professionally printed card and a generic-looking one is immediately obvious to anyone who holds them side by side. We invest in premium printing technology and high-quality card stock to ensure that every card we ship meets the standards of quality that your brand deserves. Your cards represent your business; we make sure they do so with style and confidence.

Custom Shapes and Finishes for Maximum Impact

Standard credit-card-sized cards are great, but sometimes your brand calls for something truly different. Our custom shape cutting allows you to produce cards in virtually any shape that fits your brand concept, from rounded corners to completely unique die-cut designs that perfectly reflect what your business is all about. Custom shapes are memorable, shareable, and almost impossible to ignore.

We also offer a range of finish options including glossy, matte, and specialty coatings that add a tactile dimension to your card's appeal. A matte finish communicates understated sophistication, while a high-gloss card pops with visual energy and vibrancy. These choices might seem small, but they add up to a card that feels purposefully crafted rather than casually printed, and that distinction matters enormously to the people who receive it.

Ready to Order? Contact Plastic Card ID Today

Whether you are a first-time buyer exploring your options or a longtime customer ready to place your next reorder, we are here and ready to help you every step of the way. Our team combines deep product knowledge with genuine enthusiasm for helping businesses succeed, and that combination makes every interaction with us a genuinely pleasant and productive experience you will want to repeat.

We ship plastic cards, card printers, and refill supplies to businesses nationwide with speed, reliability, and the kind of personal attention that larger, less focused companies simply cannot match. When you call us, you reach real people who know our products inside and out and are fully committed to finding the right solution for your unique situation and goals.

Call right now at 800-835-7919 - do not wait to get your card program started!

What to Have Ready When You Call

To make your first conversation as productive as possible, it helps to have a few key pieces of information in mind before you call. Think about what type of cards you need, approximately how many you want to order, whether you need encoding, and whether you have existing artwork or need help with design. Having these basics ready allows our team to give you accurate information and a fast quote without unnecessary back-and-forth communication.

Of course, if you are not sure about any of these details yet, that is completely fine too. Part of what we do is help businesses think through exactly what they need and why. We ask the right questions and listen carefully to your answers, and together we figure out the best path forward. There is no pressure and no confusion, just clear, helpful guidance from people who genuinely care about your success.

Pricing That Works for Every Budget

We offer competitive pricing across our entire product range, with quantity discounts that make larger orders particularly attractive. Our standard plastic card orders typically range from $75-$200 per hundred cards depending on customization, quantity, and card type. Card printers start at accessible price points for small businesses and scale up to professional-grade machines for high-volume operations.

We believe that high-quality plastic cards should be accessible to businesses of every size, not just large corporations with massive marketing budgets. Our pricing structure is designed with that belief in mind, and our team will always work to find an option that delivers excellent value for your specific budget. Quality does not have to break the bank when you work with a team that is as committed to value as we are to quality.

Our Promise to Every Customer

We promise to deliver exactly what we say we will, on the timeline we commit to, at the price we quote. That sounds simple, but it is a commitment we take incredibly seriously because we know that your business depends on it. When your card program runs smoothly, your customers are happy, your employees are confident, and your brand looks its best every single day. That outcome is worth everything to us.

Join the more than 100,000 businesses that have already discovered the difference that working with a true expert card partner makes. From your first order to your thousandth, we are committed to being the best card partner you have ever had. Call Plastic Card ID today at 800-835-7919 and let us prove it to you with every card we print, every order we ship, and every conversation we have along the way.