Magnetic Stripe Cards: Reliable Custom Cards for Secure Transactions

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

There is something undeniably powerful about handing someone a card. It is solid, professional, and memorable in a way that a text message or an email simply cannot match. At Plastic Card ID, we have spent more than 25 years helping businesses of all sizes turn that moment into something truly remarkable, and magnetic stripe cards are one of our most popular tools for doing exactly that.

We ship plastic cards, card printers, and refill supplies to businesses all across the country. Whether you are a small boutique or a large enterprise, our team is ready to help you find the right card solution. Reach us anytime at 800.835.7919 and let us walk you through everything we offer.

Our catalog covers an impressive range of card types, printing options, and accessories. We do not just sell you a product and send you on your way. We work alongside you to make sure every card we produce represents your brand at its absolute best.

What Makes Magnetic Stripe Cards So Valuable?

Magnetic stripe cards store data on a thin band of magnetic material on the back of the card. That strip can hold account numbers, loyalty points, access codes, and much more. They are widely used, easy to scan, and compatible with a huge range of card readers already in the field.

For businesses that want a reliable, proven card technology, magnetic stripes are a smart investment. They have been trusted by hotels, retailers, gyms, and membership organizations for decades, and they continue to deliver strong results at an affordable price point.

Who Benefits from Magnetic Stripe Technology?

Almost any business that needs to track, reward, or identify customers can benefit from magnetic stripe cards. We work with gyms, spas, restaurants, retailers, membership clubs, healthcare providers, hotels, and many others who depend on this technology every single day.

The beauty of magnetic stripe cards is their versatility. The same card format works for gift card programs, loyalty rewards, hotel room access, and employee ID badges. That kind of flexibility means you can get serious value out of a single card solution without complicating your operations.

Our Nationwide Shipping Promise

No matter where your business is located, we get your cards to your door. We ship plastic cards and all related supplies nationally, meaning businesses from coast to coast rely on us to deliver quality products on time. Our logistics process is smooth and dependable, so you never have to worry about running out of cards at the worst possible moment.

We take pride in being a reliable partner that shows up when you need us most. Fast turnaround, careful packaging, and consistent quality are the standards we hold ourselves to on every single order we fulfill.

Understanding Magnetic Stripe Cards: The Technology Behind the Swipe

Magnetic stripe cards may seem simple on the surface, but the technology packed into that small band of material is surprisingly sophisticated. The stripe encodes data using tiny magnetic particles that are aligned in specific patterns, and a card reader interprets those patterns in a fraction of a second. That quick interaction is what makes checkout lines move fast and access control seamless.

We offer magnetic stripe cards in all three standard track configurations, which means we can match the technical needs of your existing card readers and software. Our team understands the details, and we are happy to guide you toward the right specifications for your setup.

Track 1, Track 2, and Track 3 Explained

Magnetic stripes are typically organized into three tracks. Track 1 holds alphanumeric data including names and account numbers. Track 2 is the most commonly used track and stores numeric data like account numbers and expiration codes. Track 3 is less common but allows for read and write capability, making it useful for stored-value applications like prepaid cards.

Understanding which track fits your needs helps ensure your card system works smoothly from day one. We help clients evaluate their requirements upfront so there are no surprises after the cards arrive.

HiCo vs. LoCo Magnetic Stripes

Magnetic stripes come in two coercivity levels: High Coercivity (HiCo) and Low Coercivity (LoCo). HiCo stripes are more durable and resistant to accidental demagnetization, making them ideal for cards that get swiped frequently or stored near other magnetic sources. LoCo stripes are less expensive and work well for short-term applications like hotel key cards.

We stock both options and can help you determine which coercivity level is the best match for your specific use case. Getting this detail right from the start saves time, money, and frustration down the road.

Encoding Options We Provide

Beyond printing a beautiful card, we can encode the magnetic stripe with your custom data during the production process. This means your cards arrive ready to use right out of the box. Pre-encoding saves your staff time and ensures accuracy across large batches of cards.

We handle encoding with care and precision, whether you need a batch of 250 cards or 250,000. Our production process is consistent, quality-checked, and built for scale.

Our Full Range of Plastic Card Products

Magnetic stripe cards are just one piece of a much larger picture. We offer an extensive selection of plastic card types designed to serve nearly every business purpose imaginable. Our product line is built around quality, customization, and the kind of professional appearance that makes a lasting impression.

Whether you need a card for customer rewards, employee identification, event access, or brand marketing, we have a solution ready for you. Take a look at the wide variety of card categories we carry and imagine what they could do for your business.

Popular Card Types We Offer

Our catalog includes a diverse range of card options. Each type is crafted with quality materials and expert printing to ensure your brand looks sharp and professional in every customer's hands. Here are some of the card categories our clients love most:

Gift cards with magnetic stripes for retail and restaurant programs
Loyalty and rewards cards to keep customers coming back
Membership cards for clubs, gyms, and organizations
Hotel key cards encoded for room access systems
Employee ID badges with photo printing and access encoding
Casino player cards for tracking and rewards programs
Alumni and university credential cards
Union membership and trade organization cards
RFID and smart cards with contactless technology
Clear plastic and specialty-shaped cards for unique branding
Luxury metal cards crafted from stainless steel or gold finishes

Specialty and Premium Card Options

For brands that want to stand out in a big way, our specialty card options deliver a wow factor that standard cards simply cannot match. Clear plastic cards create a sleek, modern look that feels high-end and captures attention instantly. Custom-shaped cards are die-cut to match a unique design, such as a key shape for a locksmith or a bottle shape for a winery.

Luxury metal cards take prestige to the next level. Made from materials like stainless steel or finished in gold, these cards signal exclusivity and quality in a way that no paper or standard plastic card ever could. They are ideal for premium loyalty programs, VIP memberships, or elite customer appreciation campaigns.

Card Accessories and Value-Added Services

A great card deserves a great presentation. We offer custom card carriers, sleeves, and packaging options that elevate the unboxing experience for your customers. These finishing touches signal professionalism and care, which strengthens the impression your brand makes at every touchpoint.

We also offer full-service card affixing and mailing, so if you need cards sent directly to your customers on your behalf, we handle the entire process. This end-to-end service saves you time, reduces overhead, and ensures every card reaches its destination looking its best.

Card Printers and Supplies Shipped Nationally

Printing your own cards in-house gives you speed, flexibility, and control. We carry a strong selection of card printers and all the supplies you need to keep them running smoothly. From desktop models perfect for small offices to high-volume machines built for enterprise-level card programs, we have the hardware to match your workload.

Our printer lineup is backed by knowledgeable support. If you are not sure which model fits your needs, just call us at 800.835.7919. We are happy to walk you through the options and help you make a confident decision.

Types of Card Printers We Carry

Card printers come in several configurations depending on your print volume and feature requirements. Single-sided printers are cost-effective for basic ID badge programs. Dual-sided printers allow you to print on both sides of the card in a single pass, which is ideal for more detailed card designs. Retransfer printers deliver edge-to-edge, photographic-quality prints that look stunning even on dark card stock.

We stock printers from leading brands trusted by businesses nationwide. Our inventory includes options for every budget, from entry-level units priced around $300-$500 to professional-grade systems in the $1,500-$3,500 range, and high-volume industrial models beyond that.

Printer Ribbons, Overlaminates, and Cleaning Kits

A printer is only as good as the supplies you run through it. We carry a full range of printer ribbons in formats including YMCKO (color with overlay), KO (black with overlay), and monochrome options for single-color print jobs. Using the right ribbon for your job extends the life of your printer and keeps your card images sharp and vibrant.

Overlaminate films add a protective layer to your printed cards, guarding against scratches, UV fading, and everyday wear. Cleaning kits remove dust and debris from the print path, preventing streaks and jams. We recommend regular cleaning cycles to keep your printer performing at its peak for years to come.

Blank Card Stock and Specialty Media

We stock blank PVC cards in standard CR80 size as well as specialty thicknesses and finishes. Whether you need glossy white cards, pre-punched cards for lanyards, or magnetic stripe blanks ready for encoding, we have the inventory to fill your order quickly. Stocking the right blank cards means less downtime and more consistent output from your card printer.

Our selection of specialty media also includes adhesive-backed cards, barcode cards, and pre-printed card designs that can be customized to match your branding. We make it easy to get exactly what you need, exactly when you need it.

Gift Cards and Loyalty Programs Powered by Magnetic Stripes

Few marketing tools deliver the measurable return on investment that a well-designed gift card program does. Research consistently shows that businesses using plastic gift cards instead of paper certificates often see sales increases of up to 100%. That is not a small improvement. That is a transformation in how your brand generates revenue and builds customer relationships.

Our magnetic stripe gift cards integrate seamlessly with most point-of-sale systems, making setup straightforward and practical. We help businesses launch new programs and refresh existing ones with cards that look as premium as the brand they represent.

How Loyalty Cards Drive Repeat Business

Loyalty cards are one of the most effective tools for turning one-time shoppers into lifelong customers. When a customer carries your card in their wallet, your brand travels with them everywhere they go. That constant physical reminder is something a digital app notification simply cannot replicate with the same emotional weight.

Studies have shown that loyalty programs can boost sales by 35-50% for businesses that implement them correctly. The key is having a card that looks and feels impressive enough that customers actually want to use it. Our printing quality and magnetic stripe encoding ensure your loyalty cards work perfectly every single time they are swiped.

Designing a Gift Card Program That Works

A successful gift card program starts with a card design that grabs attention at the point of purchase. Bold colors, clean branding, and a professional finish make customers reach for your card over a competitors. We offer full custom design services so your card stands out on the rack and in the wallet.

Beyond design, we help you think through the logistics. How many cards do you need? What denominations will you load? Do you need carriers or packaging? We answer all of these questions and more, making the launch of your gift card program as smooth as possible from start to finish.

Case Study: Retail Gift Cards in Action

One of our retail clients switched from handwritten paper gift certificates to our custom magnetic stripe gift cards. Within the first three months, their gift card sales more than doubled, and their average gift card transaction value increased by nearly 30%. The professional appearance of the card encouraged customers to purchase higher-value amounts as gifts.

This kind of result is not unusual. It reflects what happens when a business invests in a product that signals quality and confidence. We have seen similar outcomes across retail, hospitality, food service, and personal care industries, and we are proud to play a role in those success stories.

Membership and ID Cards: Building Belonging with Every Swipe

Membership matters. When someone carries a card that says they belong to your organization, gym, club, or community, it creates a bond that goes beyond a simple transaction. Our membership and ID card solutions are designed to reinforce that sense of belonging while also serving very practical security and access functions.

From alumni associations and professional trade groups to fitness centers and private clubs, we produce membership cards that look polished, scan reliably, and hold up to years of daily use.

Employee and Visitor ID Badges

A professional ID badge does more than identify a person. It communicates that your organization takes security seriously and operates with structure and accountability. Our ID badges can include photo printing, magnetic stripe encoding, barcodes, and custom design elements that match your company branding perfectly.

Visitor badges with magnetic stripe encoding allow front-desk staff to quickly issue and deactivate temporary access credentials without any complicated manual processes. This keeps your facility secure while maintaining a welcoming experience for guests.

Union and Professional Credential Cards

Union membership cards and professional credentials carry real weight. They signal legitimate membership, earned status, and verified standing within an organization. We produce these cards with the kind of quality and durability that reflects the pride and dedication of the members who carry them.

Our magnetic stripe encoding ensures that credential cards can be used for electronic check-in at events, access to member-only areas, and verification of dues status. We have helped dozens of unions and professional associations modernize their membership card programs with great results.

Alumni Cards and Community Membership Programs

Alumni associations, libraries, community centers, and nonprofit organizations all benefit from membership cards that look professional and function reliably. A well-designed alumni card connects a graduate to their institution long after graduation day, serving as a tangible reminder of shared history and ongoing community.

We work with organizations of all sizes to create card programs that fit within their budget while still delivering impressive results. Whether you need 500 cards or 50,000, our production capabilities and national shipping mean we can serve you efficiently and affordably.

Hotel Key Cards and Access Control Solutions

Hotels, resorts, and commercial facilities rely on access control systems that are fast, reliable, and easy to manage. Our hotel key cards and access control card solutions are designed to meet these exact demands. With magnetic stripe encoding, RFID technology, and smart card options available, we cover the full spectrum of what modern hospitality and security applications require.

We understand that a hotel key card is often the first branded item a guest touches upon arrival. That is a powerful branding moment, and we help properties make the most of it with beautifully printed cards that represent the property's identity at a glance.

Magnetic Stripe Hotel Key Cards

LoCo magnetic stripe key cards remain one of the most cost-effective access solutions for hospitality properties. They work with a wide variety of door lock systems already installed in hotels across the country, making them easy to integrate without expensive upgrades. We offer fast turnaround and bulk pricing that keeps ongoing supply costs manageable.

Our hotel key cards are printed with crisp, vivid graphics that reinforce your property's brand. From full-bleed photography to elegant logo designs, we deliver cards that guests notice and appreciate during their stay.

RFID and Contactless Smart Cards

For properties ready to move beyond the swipe, we offer RFID and contactless smart cards equipped with technology including MIFARE DESFire and other leading protocols. These cards allow guests to tap and go, creating a faster and more modern guest experience that today's travelers increasingly expect.

Smart cards can be programmed for multiple functions simultaneously, including room access, elevator control, spa access, and cashless payment on property. This multi-function capability adds significant value to your guest experience while simplifying operations for your team.

Commercial and Office Access Control Cards

Beyond hospitality, we serve commercial office buildings, healthcare facilities, educational campuses, and industrial sites that need dependable access control cards. Our products integrate with major access control platforms and support a wide range of credential formats to match your existing infrastructure.

We make the process straightforward. Tell us what system you are running, and we will identify the right card specifications to ensure compatibility from day one. Our goal is always to make your job easier, not more complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Magnetic Stripe Cards

We talk with customers every day who have great questions about magnetic stripe cards, and we love it. An informed customer makes better decisions and ends up with a card program that truly works for them. Here are some of the most common questions we hear and the honest answers we give.

If you do not see your question answered here, do not hesitate to call us directly. Our team is knowledgeable, friendly, and always happy to help you figure out exactly what you need.

How Long Do Magnetic Stripe Cards Last?

With normal use, a HiCo magnetic stripe card can reliably function for three to five years or more. The physical card itself may last even longer, depending on how it is handled and stored. Cards kept away from strong magnets, heat, and physical bending will maintain their encoding integrity over time.

For high-traffic applications like retail checkout lanes or gym entrances where cards are swiped multiple times daily, we recommend HiCo stripes specifically because of their superior durability. It is a small upgrade that delivers meaningful longevity.

Can I Reorder Cards to Match My Existing Design?

Absolutely. We keep records of past orders and can reprint cards to match your existing design as closely as possible. If you have a print-ready file, we can use it directly. If you need help recreating or updating a design, our team can assist with that as well.

Consistency in your card design matters for brand recognition, and we take that seriously. Whether you are reordering 100 cards or 10,000, we work to ensure your new batch matches your expectations perfectly.

What Is the Minimum Order Quantity?

Our minimum order quantities are designed to be accessible for businesses of all sizes. Many standard card products are available in quantities as low as 100-250 cards, while specialty options like metal cards or custom die-cut shapes may have slightly higher minimums. Pricing typically improves significantly at quantities of 500, 1,000, and above.

We are happy to discuss your specific volume needs and help you find the most cost-effective ordering strategy. Sometimes ordering a slightly larger quantity upfront saves significant money per card and ensures you have stock on hand when you need it most.

Do You Offer Rush Turnaround?

Yes, we offer expedited production and shipping options for clients who need cards on a tighter timeline. Rush pricing varies depending on the quantity and complexity of the order, so the best approach is to call us directly to discuss what is possible given your deadline. We do everything we can to meet urgent needs without compromising quality.

Planning ahead is always ideal, but we understand that business moves fast. When you need cards quickly, call us at 800.835.7919 and let us see what we can do to help you hit your deadline.

Comparing Card Technologies: A Quick Reference Guide

Choosing the right card technology can feel overwhelming with so many options available. We want to make that decision easier by giving you a clear, honest comparison of the most common card technologies we offer. This way, you can match the right tool to your specific application with confidence.

The table below summarizes the key differences between the most popular card types we supply, giving you a quick reference to guide your purchasing decision.

Card Type	Best Use Case	Durability	Cost Range
HiCo Magnetic Stripe	Gift cards, loyalty, ID badges	3-5 years	$0.30-$1.50 per card
LoCo Magnetic Stripe	Hotel key cards, short-term use	1-2 years	$0.20-$0.80 per card
RFID / Contactless	Access control, smart systems	5 years	$1.00-$4.00 per card
Metal Cards	Premium loyalty, VIP programs	10 years	$5.00-$15.00 per card
Clear / Specialty Plastic	Brand differentiation, events	3-5 years	$0.50-$2.50 per card

When Magnetic Stripe Is the Right Choice

Magnetic stripe cards hit a sweet spot of affordability, compatibility, and reliability that makes them the go-to choice for most standard card programs. If your card readers already support magnetic stripes, there is rarely a reason to upgrade to a more expensive technology unless your application specifically demands it.

For gift cards, loyalty programs, membership credentials, and employee ID systems, magnetic stripe cards deliver everything you need at a price that makes sense for almost any business budget. They are proven, they are practical, and they simply work.

When to Consider Upgrading to RFID or Smart Cards

If your application requires tap-and-go convenience, multi-function credentials, or higher-level data security, stepping up to RFID or smart card technology is a worthwhile investment. The per-card cost is higher, but the added functionality often justifies that increase quickly when you factor in the improved user experience and operational efficiency.

We can walk you through a cost-benefit analysis based on your specific situation. Our goal is always to help you get the most value from your card program, not simply to sell you the most expensive option on the shelf.

Mixing Card Types in a Single Program

Some of our clients run card programs that use multiple technologies simultaneously. For example, a resort might use LoCo magnetic stripe key cards for guest rooms while using RFID credentials for staff access control and HiCo magnetic stripe cards for their loyalty rewards program. We help clients design and manage multi-format programs with ease.

Running different card types does not have to be complicated. We organize each component of your program clearly and deliver each card type in clearly labeled, organized batches so your team can implement everything without confusion.

Why Businesses Nationwide Choose Plastic Card ID

Over 100,000 businesses have trusted us with their card programs over the past 25 years. That kind of track record does not happen by accident. It happens because we consistently deliver quality products, honest guidance, and responsive service that makes clients feel valued rather than processed.

We have shipped more than 50 million cards to businesses across every industry, and we approach every new order with the same care and attention we brought to our very first one. Here is what our clients tell us sets us apart from the competition.

Reasons Clients Keep Coming Back to Us

Our clients are loyal for a reason, and we think it comes down to a few core strengths that show up consistently in every interaction. We do not cut corners on materials, we do not overpromise on timelines, and we do not push products that are not the right fit for a client's actual needs. That honesty builds the kind of trust that keeps businesses coming back order after order.

Exceptional print quality that makes every card look sharp and professional
Accurate magnetic stripe encoding that works right out of the box
Competitive pricing with volume discounts that reward loyalty
Fast turnaround times backed by efficient production and reliable shipping
Expert guidance from a team that genuinely knows card technology
Comprehensive product range that covers cards, printers, and all supplies
National shipping that reaches every corner of the country efficiently
Custom design support to help your brand look its best

Our Commitment to Long-Term Partnerships

We do not think of our clients as one-time buyers. We think of them as partners, and we invest in those relationships for the long haul. That means proactive communication about new products, honest feedback when a design could be improved, and quick responses when a problem needs to be solved. We are in this with you.

Many of our clients have been ordering from us for five, ten, or even fifteen or more years. That continuity is something we are genuinely proud of, and it motivates us to keep raising the bar on everything we do.

Serving Businesses of Every Size

Whether you are a single-location coffee shop launching your first loyalty card program or a regional hotel chain ordering thousands of key cards every month, we scale our service to match your needs. There is no business too small to receive our best effort, and no order too large for our production team to handle with precision.

We understand that small businesses often have tighter budgets and less room for error than large enterprises. That is exactly why we offer thoughtful guidance and realistic recommendations rather than pushing upgrades that do not add value for your specific situation.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Plastic Card ID Today

There has never been a better time to invest in a professional plastic card program. Whether you are building a brand-new loyalty system, upgrading your access control credentials, or simply restocking your card printer supplies, we have everything you need and we are ready to ship it to you anywhere in the country.

Our team at is passionate about helping businesses succeed through smart, well-executed card programs. We bring experience, quality, and genuine care to every order we fulfill, and we would love the opportunity to show you what we can do for your business.

How to Place Your Order

Placing an order with us is simple. Call us directly at 800.835.7919, and one of our knowledgeable team members will walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you put together exactly the right order for your needs. We make the process smooth and stress-free from start to finish.

You can also reach us with questions about existing orders, design approvals, reorders, or anything else related to your card program. We are here to help at every stage of the process, not just when you are placing a new order.

What to Have Ready When You Call

To make your call as productive as possible, it helps to have a few things in mind before you dial. Think about what type of cards you need, roughly how many you anticipate ordering, whether you need encoding or just printing, and whether you have an existing design or will need design assistance. Having these details ready speeds up the conversation and gets you to your quote faster.

Do not worry if you are not sure about all the details yet. Our team asks the right questions to help you figure out exactly what you need, even if you are starting from scratch with no prior card program experience. We have helped thousands of businesses launch their first card program, and we are great at guiding newcomers through the process.

Start Building Stronger Customer Connections Today

Every card you put in a customer's hand is an opportunity to strengthen your brand, deepen loyalty, and drive repeat business. That is the real power of a well-designed plastic card program, and it is what we have been helping businesses achieve for over two decades.

Do not let another day pass without a card strategy that works as hard as you do. Call Plastic Card ID right now at 800.835.7919 and let us help you build something worth carrying. We are excited to hear from you and ready to put our expertise to work for your business today.

Call Plastic Card ID now at 800.835.7919 - your next great card program starts with a single conversation.