CUSTOM CARD SOLUTIONS AND RFID TECHNOLOGY

Everything You Need to Know About Custom Gift Card Printing

Everything You Need to Know About Custom Gift Card Printing

At Vanguard ID Systems, we excel in custom gift card printing, a service we have been providing for more than 30 years. We’ve gotten a lot of questions over the years so below are some of the most asked questions we have received about custom gift card printing.

What is a standard gift card size?

The standard gift card size is 3.375“ x 2.125”, which is the size of a credit card and the most popular size. If you are seeking something more personalized, Vanguard ID Systems offers over 200 different form factors and the capability to custom design gift cards to any shape or size you need.

What should I add to a plastic gift card?

It’s common to feature your business name, address, phone number, and website on your gift card. Additionally, it is important to incorporate any expiration dates, terms and conditions, and make sure you have either a barcode or magnetic stripe on the back of your gift card.

Should I use a barcode or a magnetic stripe?

Based on your POS system, you have the option to incorporate either a barcode or a magnetic stripe on your gift card. Both methods store information, so when deciding which to implement, consider your personal functionality preferences, the necessary hardware, and the associated costs.

If durability is a priority, a magnetic stripe may be the most suitable choice. Conversely, if simplicity is what you seek, a barcode could be the ideal solution.

How should I design a gift card for my business?

Vanguard ID Systems has a dedicated in-house design team that is ready to assist you throughout the entire design process. As you create your gift cards, consider incorporating your logo, brand colors, taglines, and any unique features that distinguish your brand. Remember, gift cards serve as an effective marketing tool, functioning as small billboards that promote your business.

How can I promote my custom gift cards?

To effectively promote gift cards, strategically position them throughout your store. Focus on high-traffic spots and create dedicated displays to catch customers’ attention. Additionally, remember to promote your custom gift cards on your social media platforms and through email marketing.

What materials can I get for my custom gift cards?

TESLIN® is the go-to material of choice for custom card printing. It’s durable, secure, highly printable, and 10 times stronger than other synthetic materials, maximizing the lifespan of your cards. PVC and paper are also available.

What happens when I need to order more gift cards? How do I know where my barcodes left off?

When you place an order with Vanguard ID Systems, we track all your orders to guarantee that your next order will align with your previous barcodes, preventing any duplications. All you need to do is reach out to your sales representative and we will handle the rest.

Here is what else you should know about custom card printing

One of the most common inquiries we receive regarding custom card printing is about how colors function. In today’s digital world, we’re accustomed to web-based colors, which rely on the Red Green Blue (RGB) color model. Unfortunately, these colors often don’t translate well to printed materials. At Vanguard ID Systems, we use the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) color model, which is standard for our 4-color process printing.


Vanguard ID Systems is a leading manufacturer specializing in custom-made card solutions and RFID technology. Our range of custom card solutions includes gift cards, loyalty cards, and direct mailers, all of which can effectively enhance the exposure of your brand and attract a wider customer base. Our RFID technology solutions are designed specifically for your business needs, enabling you to enhance efficiency and profitability throughout your organization. Our personalized RFID solutions include labels for inventory management and asset tracking, and bands and cards for access control to name a few key areas. Contact one of our Vanguard ID Systems Technical Representatives today at 1-800-323-7432 or email us at info@vanguardid.com

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