Custom RFID labels are often used in industries that require branding, unique identification, or specific functionalities for their RFID tags. These labels are ideal for businesses that need to enhance their products or improve their tracking capabilities with custom features like logos, serial numbers, barcodes, or custom encoding.
While custom RFID labels provide added functionality and personalization, they come at an increased cost compared to standard RFID labels. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that influence the cost of custom RFID labels, help you understand how to optimize your budget, and provide tips on how to make the most out of your custom RFID investments.
How Much Do Custom RFID Labels Cost?
The cost of custom RFID labels varies depending on a range of factors such as chip type, label material, printing/encoding customizations, and order volume. On average, the cost for custom RFID labels ranges between USD 0.10 to 1.00 per unit, with certain features pushing the price higher.
Price Breakdown for Custom RFID Labels:
- Basic Custom RFID Labels (small customization, standard chips): USD 0.10 – 0.30 per unit
- Mid-range Custom RFID Labels (custom logo or barcode): USD 0.30 – 0.50 per unit
- High-end Custom RFID Labels (specialized encoding, high-memory chips, advanced materials): USD 0.50 – 1.00 per unit
Customization costs can increase based on the following factors:
- Chip selection
- Memory capacity
- Design complexity (e.g., multi-color printing, special finishes)
- Order quantity
Factors That Influence Custom RFID Labels Cost
1. Chip Type and Memory Size
The chip used in a custom RFID label significantly affects its cost. The most common chip types include EPC Gen2, NTAG, and MIFARE chips, each of which has different memory capacities and features. Higher memory chips (such as NTAG216 or ISO 18000-6C) generally cost more due to their additional functionality.
- EPC Gen2 chips: Affordable and widely used for basic applications like inventory tracking.
- MIFARE chips: More expensive, often used for secure access control or public transportation.
- NTAG chips: Typically used in NFC applications, with memory sizes ranging from basic (NTAG213) to advanced (NTAG216).
2. Custom Printing and Encoding
Custom printing and encoding options will increase the cost of your RFID labels. Common customizations include:
- Logo printing or branding (increases price by USD 0.05 – 0.10 per unit)
- Serial number encoding, barcodes, or QR codes (adds USD 0.05 – 0.10 per label)
- Color printing or multiple finishes (e.g., matte, glossy, or textured surfaces) can add more costs depending on complexity.
While basic customizations (like serial numbers or simple logos) won’t drastically raise the cost, multi-color printing or complex designs (like holographic features) will.
3. Label Material and Durability
The material used for the label itself plays a key role in pricing. Custom RFID labels can be made from various materials:
- Paper: Cheapest, suitable for short-term use or non-durable applications.
- PET or Vinyl: Common for long-lasting labels, ideal for outdoor use and harsh environments.
- Metal-backed: Necessary for on-metal RFID tags, used in industrial asset management or tracking tools.
Labels made from more durable materials (such as vinyl, polyester, or metal-backed) will cost more because they are better suited for industrial environments or outdoor tracking.
4. Order Quantity
As with most products, the cost of custom RFID labels decreases with larger order quantities. Ordering in bulk enables you to take advantage of economies of scale, bringing down the per-unit cost. For example:
- Small order (1,000 – 5,000 labels): Prices may be higher due to setup fees.
- Medium order (10,000 – 50,000 labels): Discounts typically range from 10-20% off per unit.
- Large order (100,000+ labels): Significant discounts, especially for simple customizations or standard chips.
How to Save on Custom RFID Labels Without Sacrificing Quality
While custom RFID labels can be more expensive, there are strategies to optimize your budget and still get the customization you need.
1. Minimize Customization Complexity
If you don’t require extensive branding, multiple color prints, or high-end encoding, you can minimize costs by opting for simpler customizations. For instance:
- Use black-and-white printing instead of multi-color designs.
- Stick to basic serial numbers or barcodes instead of advanced encoding.
This allows you to achieve a custom look while keeping costs down.
2. Choose the Right Chip
Avoid overpaying for high-memory chips if your application doesn’t require it. For example, many applications don’t need the large memory capacity of NTAG216 chips. Consider opting for NTAG213 chips for standard tracking or EPC Gen2 for warehouse management.
3. Order in Bulk
Purchasing custom RFID labels in bulk can significantly reduce the per-unit cost. Manufacturers generally offer discounts for larger orders, especially when you standardize your label design across your organization.
4. Work with Manufacturers Directly
By working with RFID label manufacturers directly (instead of third-party suppliers), you can eliminate extra costs associated with middlemen and negotiate better pricing for your custom orders.
5. Choose Standard Materials
Opting for standard materials such as paper-based or vinyl RFID labels (instead of expensive metal-backed or high-durability options) can help reduce the cost without sacrificing functionality. For indoor or short-term use, these materials will suffice.
Why Invest in Custom RFID Labels?
While custom RFID labels are a bit more expensive than basic RFID labels, they provide significant benefits for businesses that require unique identification, branding, and specific tracking functionalities. Here’s why you should consider custom RFID labels for your business:
- Branding: Custom RFID labels with your logo or other branding elements help strengthen your brand identity.
- Security: Custom encoding (e.g., password protection, unique serial numbers) provides an extra layer of security for applications like access control or product authentication.
- Adaptability: Custom RFID labels can be tailored to suit the unique needs of different industries, from asset tracking to smart packaging.
- Cost savings: Though more expensive upfront, custom RFID labels can save money in the long term by reducing manual tracking efforts, improving accuracy, and streamlining inventory processes.
Get a Quote for Your Custom RFID Labels Today
The cost of custom RFID labels depends on the specifications you need. If you’re ready to place a custom order, whether for branding, serial number encoding, or other customizations, we can help you optimize your budget. Contact us today for a personalized quote based on your specific needs and let us guide you through the best RFID labeling solutions for your business.
