Magnetic Stripe Cards: Secure Reliable Custom Card Solutions

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, real, and memorable in a way that a text message or email simply cannot match. At Plastic Card ID, we have built our entire mission around that idea, and we have been doing it successfully for over 25 years. We ship plastic cards, card printers, and refill supplies to businesses across the country, every single day.

We have served more than 100,000 businesses and helped produce over 50 million cards. That kind of track record does not happen by accident. It happens because we care deeply about the quality of every card we produce and every relationship we build. Whether you need magnetic stripe cards, loyalty cards, gift cards, or ID badges, we are ready to help you make a strong impression.

Our team is easy to reach for new orders or any questions. Just call us at 800-835-7919 and we will take great care of you. We ship nationwide, so no matter where your business is located, we have got you covered with fast, reliable delivery.

Why Magnetic Stripe Cards Still Matter Today

In a world full of apps and digital tools, magnetic stripe cards continue to hold their ground. Businesses use them for loyalty programs, gift card systems, access control, and membership tracking. The magnetic stripe on the back of a card stores data quickly and works with a wide range of card readers, making them one of the most practical card technologies available today.

We have seen firsthand how magnetic stripe cards help businesses run more smoothly. When a customer swipes their loyalty card at checkout, it creates a moment of connection between the customer and the brand. That simple swipe builds loyalty, encourages repeat visits, and keeps your business top of mind long after the customer walks out the door.

Retailers who switch from paper punch cards or digital-only programs to professionally printed magnetic stripe cards often see remarkable results. Some see sales increases of up to 100% when they upgrade to plastic gift cards with magnetic stripes. The difference is real, and the numbers speak for themselves.

Our Nationwide Shipping Promise

One of the things we are most proud of is our ability to ship anywhere in the United States. It does not matter if you are running a small boutique in a rural town or managing a large hotel chain with locations across the country. We get your order out the door and delivered to your address without delay or hassle.

Our shipping process is straightforward and reliable. We package every order with care to make sure your cards arrive in perfect condition. We also ship card printers and all the refill supplies you need, including ribbons, cleaning kits, and blank card stock, so you can reorder easily without searching multiple vendors.

We believe that great service does not stop when the order is placed. It continues through every stage of delivery, and our team stays ready to assist you with tracking, reorders, and any questions that come up along the way.

A Partner You Can Count On

We do not just fill orders. We build relationships. Our clients come back to us year after year because they know that our products are high quality and our service is dependable. We think of ourselves as a strategic partner for your business, not just a supplier.

When you work with us, you get access to decades of industry knowledge. We can help you choose the right card type, the right printing method, and the right accessories to get the most out of your card program. We are here to make sure your investment pays off in real, measurable ways.

Magnetic Stripe Cards: The Backbone of Countless Business Programs

Magnetic stripe cards are one of the most widely used card technologies in business today. They store information on a thin band of magnetic material on the back of the card, and that information can be read by a card swipe terminal or reader. This simple but effective technology is used in thousands of industries around the world, and we are proud to be a leading provider of these powerful little tools.

We offer magnetic stripe cards in several encoding formats, including low-coercivity (LoCo) and high-coercivity (HiCo) options. HiCo cards are more durable and resistant to accidental erasure, making them ideal for cards that will be swiped frequently. LoCo cards work well for shorter-term programs like event passes or hotel key cards. Our team can help you figure out which type fits your needs best.

Common Uses for Magnetic Stripe Cards

Magnetic stripe cards show up in nearly every corner of the business world. From coffee shop loyalty programs to hotel room access, these cards handle a huge variety of tasks quietly and efficiently. We have helped businesses across dozens of industries design and produce magnetic stripe cards that work perfectly for their specific programs.

Here is a look at some of the most popular uses we see every day:

• Gift cards and store value cards for retail businesses
• Customer loyalty and rewards cards
• Hotel key cards and access control cards
• Membership cards for gyms, clubs, and associations
• Employee ID cards with access privileges
• Casino player tracking cards
• Transit passes and event admission cards

No matter which category your project falls into, we have the experience and the equipment to produce magnetic stripe cards that look great and work reliably. Our quality control standards are high, and every batch we produce is checked before it ships.

HiCo vs. LoCo: Choosing the Right Magnetic Stripe

Choosing between HiCo and LoCo magnetic stripes is one of the first decisions you will make when ordering magnetic stripe cards. HiCo stripes use a stronger magnetic field, which means they are much harder to accidentally erase. They are the go-to choice for long-term programs where the card will be used repeatedly over months or years.

LoCo stripes use a lower magnetic field strength and are typically used for short-term programs. Hotel key cards are a classic example because guests only need the card to work for a few nights. LoCo cards cost a bit less than HiCo cards, so they can be a smart choice when you are running a temporary event or a short-duration program.

Our experts can walk you through both options and help you decide which is right for your program. We want to make sure you get exactly what you need, and we are always happy to answer questions before you place your order.

Encoding and Personalization Options

We offer magnetic stripe cards with encoding already built in, or we can supply blank cards that you encode yourself using one of our card printers. Both options have their place depending on how your business operates. If you need high-volume, pre-encoded cards shipped directly to you, we can handle that. If you prefer to encode in-house for flexibility and control, we have the printers and ribbons to make that work too.

Personalization goes beyond the magnetic stripe. We can print full-color graphics, logos, and text on your cards to make them look professional and on-brand. A well-designed magnetic stripe card is not just a functional tool. It is also a marketing piece that keeps your brand in the customer's wallet for years.

Explore Our Full Range of Plastic Card Types

Magnetic stripe cards are just one part of what we offer. Our product line covers a wide range of card types designed for different business needs and goals. Whether you are looking for something simple and functional or something that really stands out, we have options that will impress you and your customers.

We have worked with businesses in retail, hospitality, healthcare, education, entertainment, and more. Each industry has its own needs, and our product line reflects that variety. Below is a look at some of the card categories we are most excited to share with you.

Gift Cards and Loyalty Cards

Gift cards are one of the best marketing tools a retail business can use. Studies show that customers who redeem gift cards often spend more than the card's value, which means extra revenue for your business every time a card is used. We produce beautiful, durable gift cards that your customers will be proud to give and receive.

Loyalty cards work alongside gift cards to keep customers coming back. When people feel rewarded for their purchases, they return more often. We have seen businesses report sales boosts of 35-50% after launching a solid loyalty card program. Our magnetic stripe loyalty cards make it easy to track points and rewards through your existing POS system.

Both gift cards and loyalty cards benefit from great design. We offer full-color printing, custom shapes, and a variety of finishes to make your cards look as good as your brand deserves. A great-looking card stays in the wallet instead of the trash can, and that means more exposure for your business every single day.

Membership and ID Cards

Membership cards create a sense of belonging. When someone holds a card that says they are a member of your club, gym, or organization, it strengthens their connection to your brand. We produce membership cards for gyms, professional associations, alumni groups, unions, and many other organizations that value strong member relationships.

ID badges and employee cards serve a different but equally important purpose. They help organizations maintain security and give employees a clear, professional identity in the workplace. We can produce ID cards with photos, barcodes, magnetic stripes, or even smart chip technology depending on your security requirements.

Specialty and Luxury Cards

Sometimes a standard plastic card is not enough. For clients who want to make a bold statement, we offer specialty options that truly set a brand apart. Clear plastic cards have a sleek, modern look that surprises people when they first see them. Custom-shaped cards break the standard rectangle mold and are impossible to ignore.

For the ultimate in prestige, our metal cards are crafted from materials like stainless steel or gold-finished metal. These cards feel heavy and substantial in the hand, which immediately signals quality and exclusivity. Hotels, luxury retailers, and high-end membership clubs use metal cards to create unforgettable first impressions that last for years.

Card Printers and Supplies: Everything You Need in One Place

We are a true one-stop shop. That means you do not have to go hunting for a printer from one vendor, ribbons from another, and blank cards from a third. We carry everything you need to run a complete in-house card printing operation, and we ship it all nationwide with the same fast, reliable service you expect from us.

Whether you are setting up a new card program from scratch or replacing aging equipment in an existing operation, our selection of card printers and supplies has you covered. We carry brands and models trusted by businesses large and small, and our team can help match you with the right equipment for your print volume and budget.

Choosing the Right Card Printer

Card printers come in many shapes and sizes, and picking the right one makes a big difference in your day-to-day operations. A small business that prints a few dozen cards a month has very different needs than a school district printing thousands of student ID cards each fall. We help businesses at every level find the printer that fits them perfectly.

Desktop card printers are compact, affordable, and easy to use. They are perfect for small to medium-sized operations that want the flexibility of printing cards in-house without a big investment. Industrial-grade printers are built for high-volume environments where speed and durability are critical. We carry both, along with everything in between.

If you are not sure which printer is right for you, just call us at 800-835-7919. Our team loves helping customers figure out the best setup for their specific situation, and we will ask the right questions to make sure you walk away with exactly what you need.

Ribbons, Blank Cards, and Cleaning Kits

A card printer is only as good as the supplies that go into it. We stock a full inventory of printer ribbons in a variety of formats, including full-color YMCKO ribbons, monochrome ribbons for single-color printing, and specialty ribbons with built-in overlaminates for added card durability. Using the right ribbon means sharper images, truer colors, and cards that last longer.

We also carry blank card stock in a range of materials and sizes. Whether you need standard CR80 cards, key-tag sized cards, or anything in between, we have the blank inventory to keep your printer running. Our blank cards are compatible with all major printer brands, so you never have to worry about compatibility issues slowing you down.

Cleaning kits are an easy thing to overlook, but they are essential for keeping your printer in top shape. A dirty printer produces streaky, low-quality cards and wears out faster. We make it easy to stay on top of maintenance by offering cleaning kits alongside every printer we sell, so keeping your equipment clean becomes a natural part of your routine.

Accessories That Complete Your Card Program

We offer a full range of card accessories to make your program look and feel polished from top to bottom. Card carriers and sleeves add a professional presentation layer that impresses customers when they receive their new card. A beautifully designed carrier turns a simple card into a branded experience that customers remember.

We also offer card affixing and mailing services for businesses that want to send cards directly to their customers or members. This kind of full-service approach saves you time and effort, and it ensures that every card goes out looking its best. When every detail is handled with care, it reflects positively on your brand.

Industries We Proudly Serve Across the Country

Our clients come from just about every industry you can imagine. We have helped small family-owned restaurants launch their first gift card program and worked with large hotel chains to produce thousands of magnetic stripe key cards at a time. The variety of our client base is a testament to how versatile our products truly are.

No matter what industry you operate in, there is almost certainly a card solution that can help your business run better, earn more loyalty, or improve security. Our job is to help you figure out which solution is the right fit and then deliver it with the quality and speed you deserve.

Retail and Hospitality

Retailers rely on us for gift cards, loyalty cards, and promotional mailer cards that drive foot traffic and boost average transaction sizes. A well-designed plastic gift card sits in a customer's wallet until they are ready to spend, keeping your brand visible every time they reach for their payment cards. That kind of passive marketing is hard to beat.

Hotels and resorts use our magnetic stripe key cards to give guests seamless access to their rooms and amenities. We produce hotel key cards in high volumes at competitive prices, with quick turnaround times that fit the fast pace of the hospitality industry. Our key cards are reliable, look great, and can be custom-branded with your property's logo and design.

Healthcare, Education, and Associations

Hospitals and healthcare facilities use ID cards to keep staff and patients safe. Clear identification is essential in healthcare settings, and our durable, high-quality ID cards stand up to the demands of a busy medical environment. We produce cards with photos, barcodes, magnetic stripes, and custom security features depending on what your facility requires.

Schools and universities use student ID cards for everything from library access to cafeteria payments. Alumni associations order membership cards that keep graduates connected to their institutions long after graduation day. We have served educational organizations at every level, from small private schools to large university systems, with cards that reflect the pride and identity of each institution.

Professional associations, trade unions, and clubs use membership cards to formalize belonging. When a member holds a card that shows their status in an organization, it deepens their commitment and pride. We make membership cards that communicate professionalism and permanence, helping organizations of all sizes strengthen their member relationships.

Entertainment and Events

Casinos are among the most demanding users of magnetic stripe card technology. Casino player tracking cards need to be rugged, reliable, and encoded precisely to work with sophisticated gaming management systems. We have extensive experience producing casino player cards that meet the high standards of the gaming industry.

Event organizers use custom plastic cards for VIP access passes, season tickets, and event credentials. A plastic event card feels more valuable than a paper ticket, and it is far less likely to get lost or damaged in a pocket or purse. Guests appreciate the quality, and event organizers appreciate how well our cards reflect their brand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Magnetic Stripe Cards and Our Services

We talk to customers every day who have great questions about magnetic stripe cards, card printers, and how our ordering process works. We have pulled together some of the most common questions here to help you get the information you need quickly and confidently.

If your question is not answered here, do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is knowledgeable, friendly, and always happy to help. We want you to feel completely confident before you place your order, and we will take as much time as you need to make sure everything is clear.

How Do I Know Which Card Type Is Right for My Business?

The right card type depends on how you plan to use it. If you need to track customer data through a point-of-sale system, a magnetic stripe card is usually the best choice. If you need contactless access control, an RFID smart card might be a better fit. Our team can walk you through the options and help you decide based on your specific goals and budget.

We always recommend starting with a clear picture of how the card will be used in your day-to-day operations. Think about how often it will be swiped, whether it needs to store variable data, and how long you expect it to last. Once we understand your needs, we can match you with the perfect card solution from our extensive product lineup.

What Is the Typical Turnaround Time for Orders?

Turnaround times vary depending on the size and complexity of your order. Standard orders for pre-designed magnetic stripe cards typically ship within a few business days. Custom-printed orders that require artwork review and production may take a bit longer, but we always give you a clear timeline when you place your order so there are no surprises.

We understand that businesses often need cards quickly, especially when launching a new program or replacing lost or damaged cards. We do our best to accommodate rush orders when possible, and our team will always be upfront with you about what is achievable within your timeframe. Speed and accuracy are both important to us.

Can I Order Small Quantities?

Yes, absolutely. We work with businesses of all sizes, including startups and small operations that only need a modest number of cards to get started. You do not need to place a massive order to receive the same high quality that our larger clients enjoy. We believe every business deserves professional-grade cards, no matter the order size.

Ordering in smaller quantities is a smart way to test a new card program before committing to a large run. Once you see the results, many of our clients quickly scale up their orders. We make it easy to grow with us, and our pricing reflects fair value at every quantity level. Call us at 800-835-7919 to discuss your needs today.

Case Studies: Real Businesses, Real Results with Magnetic Stripe Cards

We love sharing the success stories of businesses that have transformed their operations by adding magnetic stripe cards to their programs. These real-world examples show the power of what a well-designed, professionally printed plastic card can do for a business of any size. The results speak for themselves.

Each story is a little different because every business is unique. But the common thread in all of them is the same: when businesses invest in quality plastic cards, they see real, measurable improvements in customer loyalty, sales, and operational efficiency. Here are a few examples that stand out to us.

Boutique Retail Store Doubles Gift Card Revenue

A small boutique clothing shop had been using paper gift certificates for years. The certificates were easy to copy, hard to track, and did not make a great impression on gift-givers. After switching to professionally printed plastic gift cards with magnetic stripes, the shop saw a dramatic change in customer behavior and revenue.

Within the first six months, gift card sales doubled. Customers who received gift cards spent an average of 25% more than the card's face value when they came in to redeem it. The shop owner was thrilled with the results and quickly expanded the card program to include a loyalty rewards option. The combination of gift cards and loyalty cards transformed the shop's customer retention strategy entirely.

We worked closely with the shop owner to design cards that matched the boutique's brand aesthetic. The finished cards were so attractive that customers often commented on them, asking where the shop got them printed. That kind of brand reinforcement is priceless, and it all started with a simple phone call to place an order.

Hotel Chain Streamlines Room Access Nationwide

A regional hotel chain with properties in multiple states needed a reliable, consistent supply of magnetic stripe key cards. Their previous supplier had inconsistent quality and frequent shipping delays, which caused headaches for front desk staff and frustrated guests. They came to us looking for a better solution.

We set them up with a standing reorder program that kept every property stocked with freshly printed, reliable key cards at all times. Our HiCo magnetic stripe encoding meant fewer demagnetized cards and fewer frustrated guests knocking on the front desk at midnight. The chain's operations manager called it one of the best vendor changes they had ever made.

Gym Membership Program Boosts Retention Rates

A fitness center chain was struggling with member retention. People signed up enthusiastically but drifted away within the first few months. The management team wanted to create a stronger sense of membership identity to keep people engaged. They decided to invest in professionally designed membership cards with magnetic stripes for access tracking.

After rolling out the new cards, membership retention improved significantly within the first year. Members who carried the card visited more frequently, and the access data captured through the magnetic stripe system helped the gym identify which members were at risk of canceling so they could reach out proactively. The data alone made the card program worth every penny.

Smart Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Card Program

Running a successful card program takes a little planning, but the payoff is absolutely worth the effort. We have helped thousands of businesses launch and grow card programs over the years, and we have picked up a lot of practical wisdom along the way. Here are some of our best tips to help you hit the ground running.

Think of your card program as a long-term investment in customer relationships. The more thought you put into the design, the data you collect, and how you promote the program, the more value you will get out of it over time. A magnetic stripe card is just the beginning of a much bigger opportunity.

Design Tips for Maximum Impact

Your card design is the first thing people notice, so make it count. Use your brand colors, logo, and a clean, readable layout that communicates professionalism at a glance. Avoid cluttering the card with too much text. Let the design breathe, and trust that a beautiful card will speak for itself.

Consider both sides of the card when planning your design. The front is your prime branding real estate. The back is where functional elements like the magnetic stripe, barcode, and legal text live. A thoughtful two-sided design makes the most of every square inch of your card and leaves a lasting impression on everyone who holds it.

• Use high-resolution artwork for crisp, professional printing results
• Include a clear call to action or website URL on the card
• Choose a finish that matches your brand personality (glossy, matte, or UV-coated)
• Make sure your logo is prominently placed and easy to read
• Consider adding a signature panel or cardholder name field if relevant

Promoting Your Card Program Effectively

A great card program only works if customers know about it. Train your staff to mention the card program at every transaction. Place signage near your point of sale that explains the benefits. Include information about the program in your email newsletters and on your social media profiles to spread the word as widely as possible.

Consider offering a sign-up incentive to encourage customers to join. A small bonus reward for getting a loyalty card or using a gift card for the first time can create a surge in program enrollment. Once customers are enrolled and carrying your card, the ongoing benefits of repeat visits and increased spending will more than cover the cost of the incentive.

Tracking and Improving Your Program Over Time

One of the greatest advantages of magnetic stripe cards is the data they generate. Every time a customer swipes their card, you get valuable information about their purchasing habits, visit frequency, and preferences. Use that data to improve your program and personalize your outreach to different customer segments.

Review your card program metrics at least quarterly to spot trends and opportunities. Are certain customer groups using their cards more than others? Are there periods when card usage drops off? These insights can help you fine-tune your promotions and keep engagement high throughout the year. Data-driven card programs consistently outperform those managed by gut feel alone.

Why Businesses Choose Plastic Card ID Over the Competition

There are other companies out there that print plastic cards. We know that. But there are reasons why over 100,000 businesses have chosen to work with us, and why so many of them keep coming back year after year. It comes down to quality, service, and the depth of knowledge we bring to every single order.

We do not treat any order as just a transaction. Every client we work with gets our full attention and our genuine desire to see their card program succeed. That philosophy has built our reputation over more than 25 years in this industry, and it continues to drive everything we do today.

Unmatched Product Quality

Every card we produce goes through a rigorous quality control process before it ships. We use premium materials and industry-leading printing technology to ensure that every card meets the high standards our clients expect. Quality is not something we treat as optional. It is the foundation of everything we do.

Our magnetic stripe cards are encoded precisely and tested to work reliably with standard card readers. Our printed cards feature vibrant, accurate colors that match your approved artwork. When your order arrives, you can trust that it will look exactly as you envisioned and perform exactly as you need it to.

Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our team brings decades of combined experience to every client conversation. We have seen just about every card program scenario imaginable, and that experience means we can anticipate problems before they arise and offer solutions that save you time, money, and frustration. We are genuinely invested in your success.

Whether you are a first-time buyer trying to figure out the basics or an experienced buyer looking to upgrade your existing program, we meet you where you are and help you take the next step. We ask good questions, listen carefully, and give you honest, straightforward advice. That is the kind of partner every business deserves.

Competitive Pricing With Transparent Value

We offer competitive pricing across our entire product line without sacrificing the quality that sets us apart. Our cards range in price depending on quantity, card type, and customization level, but you can generally expect transparent, fair pricing that reflects the value you receive. Custom gift cards, for example, can range from $75-$200 per hundred depending on the design and features included.

We believe that professional-grade plastic cards should be accessible to businesses of all sizes, not just large corporations with big budgets. Our pricing structure is designed to make it easy for small and medium-sized businesses to invest in cards without feeling the strain. The return on investment almost always exceeds the initial cost by a significant margin.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Plastic Card ID Today

Call Plastic Card ID right now at 800-835-7919 and let us help you build a card program that delivers real results for your business. Whether you need magnetic stripe cards, loyalty cards, gift cards, ID badges, or a complete card printing setup, we have everything you need and a team that is ready to make it happen.

We ship nationwide, we offer expert guidance at every step, and we back every order with the quality and reliability that has earned the trust of over 100,000 businesses. Reaching out is easy, and there is no obligation. Just a friendly conversation with people who genuinely love what they do and want to see your business win.

How to Place Your Order

Placing an order with us is simple and stress-free. Call our team at 800-835-7919, and one of our specialists will walk you through the entire process from start to finish. We will help you choose the right card type, review your design options, confirm your quantities, and provide a clear quote before anything moves forward.

If you already know exactly what you need, we can often move quickly from conversation to confirmation in a single call. Our streamlined ordering process is designed to save you time and get your cards into production as fast as possible. We respect your time, and we work hard to make every interaction with us efficient and pleasant.

Request a Sample Pack

Not sure which card type or finish is right for your brand? We encourage you to ask about sample packs so you can see and feel the difference between our various card options before committing to a full order. Holding a sample card in your hand tells you more than any product description ever could.

Samples are a great way to compare finishes, card thicknesses, and printing quality side by side. Once you experience the premium feel of our products firsthand, the decision to move forward becomes much easier. Our samples have convinced many hesitant first-time buyers to become some of our most loyal long-term clients.

Join Thousands of Happy Clients Nationwide

PCID has earned the loyalty of businesses across every state in the country, and we are ready to earn yours too. Our 25-plus years of experience, our commitment to quality, and our passion for helping clients succeed all come together in every order we fulfill. We are proud of what we do, and we want to share that pride with your business.

When you partner with Plastic Card ID, you are not just buying cards. You are gaining a trusted partner who will be there for every reorder, every program expansion, and every question along the way. Call us at 800-835-7919 today and take the first step toward a card program that truly works for you.

Call Plastic Card ID now at 800-835-7919 - we are standing by and ready to help you create cards that make a lasting impression!