Safe Handling Techniques: Guidelines Storage Plastic Cards

Welcome to the Premier Resource for Plastic Card Storage Tips

In today's fast-paced world, plastic cards have become a ubiquitous part of business operations. At Plastic Card ID , we understand the importance of these little pieces of plastic to your daily transactions and brand representation. That's why we've put together a set of comprehensive guidelines for the proper storage of plastic cards, focusing on prolonging their longevity and ensuring optimal performance.

Ensuring that your cards are handled with care and stored correctly can greatly impact their durability and effectiveness. With our tried-and-true best practices, you can protect your cards from unnecessary damage and wear, thereby maintaining their quality and functionality for a longer period of time.

Here are the guidelines that will help you keep your cards in prime condition, reflecting your brand's commitment to excellence every time they are used. Remember, if you need to place a new order or have any questions, we are just a call away at 800.835.7919 .

Understanding Plastic Card Materials

Plastic cards are made from a variety of materials, each with its unique character traits. Knowing what your cards are made of is the first step in ensuring they last as long as possible.

Most cards are made from PVC, which is durable and flexible. However, exposure to extreme temperatures and sunlight can warp or discolour these cards over time.

Optimal Temperature for Card Storage

Just like Goldilocks found the porridge that was "just right," your plastic cards require an optimal temperature range for storage. Keeping them in an environment that is too hot or too cold can lead to damage.

The ideal temperature is room temperature, generally between 68F to 77F (20C to 25C). This range helps maintain the integrity of the card materials.

Protection from the Elements

Your cards need protection from more than just temperature. Elements like sunlight, moisture, and magnetic fields can also wreak havoc on your plastic card's lifespan.

Storing cards in a dark, dry place can help prevent premature aging and demagnetization, which is crucial for cards with magnetic stripes.

Organizing Your Cards

Organization is key when it comes to storage. Not only does it stop physical damage caused by unnecessary bending or scratching, but it also makes it easier for you to find the card you need, when you need it.

Use card holders, drawers, or even dedicated filing systems to make sure each card has its place, unharmed by the chaos of a messy drawer.

Best Practices for Increasing Plastic Card Longevity

Cleaning Plastic Cards

Just like anything else you value, keeping your plastic cards clean can help extend their life. Gentle wiping with a soft cloth or a cleaner specifically designed for plastic cards will do the trick.

Steer clear of abrasive cleaners and solvents that can damage the card's surface and magnetic stripe or chip.

Avoid Physical Alterations

It's tempting to punch a hole or attach a sticker to a plastic card for convenience, but resist the urge. Physical alterations can interfere with the functionality of the card, especially if it has a chip or magnetic stripe.

If customization is what you're after, it's better to order cards with these features pre-built from us at 800.835.7919 .

Handling Cards with Care

How you handle your cards on a daily basis is also important. Always grip the edges to avoid smudging the surface or damaging a magnetic stripe with fingerprints.

Also, consider wearing gloves if you're handling a high volume of cards to keep them pristine.

Regular Inspections

Regularly inspect your stored cards to ensure they remain in top condition. Look for signs of wear and tear, clean them as necessary, and replace any that are starting to show their age.

This proactive approach helps you maintain a stock of cards that are ready to impress at a moment's notice.

Storage Containers and Environments

The right storage container can be the difference between cards that last a lifetime and those that don't make it through the season. Choose containers that shield your cards from potentially damaging conditions.

Acid-free, archival-safe sleeves and boxes can offer this protection without any additional harmful chemicals that might degrade the plastic over time.

Enhancing Plastic Card Performance

Utilizing the Right Equipment

Using the proper equipment for your plastic cards, like the right card printers and refill supplies, is crucial. It ensures not only the performance but also the aesthetic quality of your cards.

At Plastic Card ID , we offer a selection of high-quality card printers and supplies that guarantee your cards look and function as intended.

Maintaining Your Card Printer

A well-maintained printer is essential for issuing high-quality cards. Regular cleaning and servicing of your card printer can prevent a multitude of issues, from poor image quality to card jams.

Following the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific printer model will ensure the best results.

Correct Storage of Printer Supplies

Just like the cards themselves, printer ribbons, cleaning kits, and other supplies should be stored correctly. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to maintain their quality.

This ensures they are in perfect condition when you need them for your card printing needs.

Software Updates and Calibration

Keeping your card printer's software up to date is just as important as the physical maintenance. Software updates often include optimizations that can prolong the life of your printer and improve card quality.

Regular calibration of your printer also ensures that the cards come out looking exactly as they should.

Expert Tips and Troubleshooting

Sometimes, things don't go as planned. That's why it's important to have access to expert advice when you encounter a problem with your card printer.

At Plastic Card ID , we're always here to help. Simply give us a call at 800.835.7919 , and we'll assist you with troubleshooting and tips to get you back on track swiftly.

Caring for Your Plastic Cards During Use

Proper Handling

When using your plastic cards, handle them by the edges to avoid unnecessary damage to the magnetic stripe or chip. This simple habit can drastically reduce wear and tear.

Educate your team on the proper way to handle cards to ensure they last as long as possible.

Avoiding Detrimental Conditions

Certain environments are harsher on your plastic cards than others. Places with high humidity, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight can cause your cards to deteriorate quickly.

Always keep your cards in a stable environment, and if necessary, provide protective cases for those who use them in the field.

Immediate Replacement of Damaged Cards

A damaged card can reflect poorly on your business. If you notice a card is showing signs of wear, replacing it promptly helps you maintain a professional image.

Educating Card Users

Another component of card longevity is educating the people who use them about proper care and handling techniques. Informing customers and staff can prevent accidental misuse that leads to damage.

Encourage habits like returning cards to a safe place after use and gently inserting or swiping through readers.

Regular Update of Cards

Even with the best care, cards will eventually need to be updated or replaced. Staying on top of this ensures that your cards always function correctly and look great.

Let us help you keep an updated and fresh supply of cards on hand. Reach out to our team at 800.835.7919 whenever you need to replenish your stock.

A Guide to Recycling Plastic Cards Responsibly

Recognizing the Need for Recycling

When your plastic cards have reached the end of their life, it's important to recycle them if possible. This helps to minimize waste and can contribute to a healthier environment.

While we don't focus on eco-friendly or biodegradable options, recycling can be a straightforward process when you know how to do it properly.

Finding Recycling Centers

To recycle your old plastic cards, look for local recycling centers that accept PVC materials. These facilities have the equipment to process and repurpose plastic cards safely.

A quick online search or call to your local waste management service can point you in the right direction.

Preparing Cards for Recycling

Before you recycle your plastic cards, you should remove any components that aren't recyclable, like magnetic stripes and chips. This helps ensure that the recycling process is as efficient as possible.

The process is quite simple and is a small step you can take to contribute to the larger effort of waste reduction.

Company Recycling Programs

You may find that some companies offer recycling programs for plastic cards. Participating in these programs can be a convenient way to dispose of your old cards responsibly.

Check with your card provider or manufacturers to see if they offer such a program.

Recycling Best Practices

For a successful recycling effort, you need to follow best practices. This includes correctly sorting your cards and ensuring they're clean and free from any non-recyclable attachments.

Adhering to these practices can make a difference in the efficiency of the recycling process.