Printed ID Cards Frequently Asked Questions

The sections below contain some of the most commonly asked questions related to printed ID cards. We hope you will find the answers to any queries you might have here. If not please contact us and one of our team will do their best to help.

Printed ID Cards Questions

• How do I place an order for printed ID cards?
  To start the order process simply get in touch. We'll work with you to understand your specific needs and provide you with a bespoke quotation for your printed ID cards.
  
  If you are happy with the quotation we can get started on your order. You can take a look at the five step process to understand each step.
• What information do I need to provide for each card?
  We'll first work with you to define a template ID card. This will include what data and design elements you want printed on each card.
  
  Once we have finalised the template, we will provide you with a spreadsheet or CSV file for you to add in all the information for each card.
• Can I order a single card, or do I need to order in bulk?
  We offer two options for ordering printed ID cards:
  
  a) A standalone bulk order where we produce a set amount of cards in a single print run. A minimum number of ID cards is required for this option.
  
  b) An ID Bureau service with a minimum initial payment, but no minimum number of ID cards. This service allows you to benefit from the all the design support of a standalone order but with a smaller initial print run of ID cards. You can then drawdown on your credit balance for printing additional cards as required.
• Do I get to see a proof before printing?
  Absolutely!
  
  We'll first provide you with a proof on the template ID card design for your approval - this is the basic layout of each ID card showing logos, backgrounds or similar but without any personal data.
  
  Once you have approved the template design we will then import and synchronise staff photos, names, job titles etc and provide you will a proof showing each personalised ID card.
  
  We strongly recommend that you have each staff member review their own card to ensure that all data is correct.
• How long does it take to receive my ID cards?
  Printed ID cards are normally produced and shipped within 7 working days of proof approval.
  
  If you have a very tight deadline, please let us know as we are often able to accomodate this within our production schedule.
• Can I reorder the same design in the future?
  Yes! Your designs and data are stored securely within our systems, allowing you to easily re-order, order for new team members or create variations of the original design.

Design & Customisation Questions

• Do you offer a card design service, or do I need to supply artwork?
  Our ID card specialists will work with you to create your design.
  
  If you already have a template or previous design we can use this to build your ID card template on our systems.
  
  We can also help you create a design from scratch using your logo or organisation colours. We have an extensive gallery of layout examples to help you decide on the perfect layout for your ID cards.
• Can you print my company logo or custom graphics?
  Yes. You can add logos, background images or custom colours to your design.
  
  Simply provide us with any graphics, typefaces or specific colours and we will use them when creating your ID card template.
• What file formats do you accept for images and logos?
  As with any printed product high resolution graphics are required for the best print quality.
  
  We can work with a wide range of file formats and our team will work with you to ensure all images are suitable for printing.
• Can I include barcodes, QR codes, or magnetic stripes on my cards?
  Yes.
  
  Please note that any barcodes or QR codes need to be high resolution images in order for them to scan once printed on an ID card. We will of course let you know if any graphics you provide are unsuitable.
• What if I don't have high-quality photos - can you help?
  Yes
  
  We use a system called EasyBadge which allows you to take high quality photos using the EasyBadge App on most smartphones. This app then securely uploads the images to our systems.

Data & Bulk Orders Questions

• How do I send you staff names, photos, and details?
  We will provide you with a spreadsheet or CSV file with all of the data fields required for your printed ID cards.
  
  Simply fill this in for all team members and return it to us.
• Can I upload an Excel or CSV file for multiple cards?
  We will provide you with a spreadsheet or CSV file with all of the data fields required for your printed ID cards.
  
  Simply fill this in for all team members and return it to us.
• Is there a way to order cards for new staff later without redoing the whole batch?
  Yes
  
  Our ID bureau service allows you to order additional cards, for example for new starts or to replace lost or damaged cards
• Do you store my data for future reprints?
  Yes.
  
  Your card design(s) and data are securely stored on our systems to allow for easy reordering.

Security & Durability Questions

• Are the cards secure against copying or tampering?
  We offer a range of solutions to enhance security and ensure your cards will be protected from card cloning, counterfeiting and forging.
  
  Please let us know your specific requirements and we will be happy to advise on available security enhancements
• Do you offer holograms, UV print, or other security features?
  We offer a range of solutions to enhance security and ensure your cards will be protected from card cloning, counterfeiting and forging.
  
  Please let us know your specific requirements and we will be happy to advise on available security enhancements
• How durable are the cards? Will they fade or crack?
  ID cards are designed to handle the wear and tear of everyday use. Like any printed product the print will fade over time but our cards are transfer printed to ensure the best possible print quality.
  
  We recommend pairing your ID cards with a protective id card holder which will help prevent scratches or other damage.
  
  We offer a range of different cards including various thicknesses and protective overlaminates - please let us know if you have any specific requirements and we will advise on the best type of card.
• Are your cards waterproof?
  Yes. Our cards are made from waterproof plastic and are transfer printed to ensure the highest quality print finish.
  
  Cards can be wiped clean with a soft cloth and warm water. Please do not use any cleaning products on the cards as this may damage the print.

Card Options Questions

• What sizes and finishes are available?
  Standard printed ID cards are the size of a credit or debit card - 86mm x 54mm. Cards are available in a range of colours and in gloss or matt finishes.
  
  We also offer a range of A4 perforated printable insert sheets in a range of sizes, as well as plastic or laminated inserts or passes which can be sized to your specific requirements.
• Do you offer double-sided printing?
  Yes, we can print on both sides of the card, however there may be some limitations on what can be printed depending on the specific type of card.
  
  We can advise on the best choice of card for your specific requirements or design choices.
• Can you print on eco-friendly or recycled materials?
  We can offer a range of eco friendly options including PVC free cards, paper based cards, biodegradable cards and cards made from recycled materials.
  
  Please let us know your specific requirements and we can advise on the eco friendly options available.
• What accessories can I order with my ID cards?
  We can supply a wide range of accessories to go with your printed ID cards including:
  
  

  • Custom Printed Lanyards
  • Plain Coloured Lanyards
  • ID Card Holders
  • PVC Wallets
  • Retractable Reels

Delivery & Logistics Questions

• What is your standard turnaround time?
  Printed ID cards are normally produced and shipped within 7 working days of proof approval.
  
  If you have a very tight deadline, please let us know as we are often able to accomodate this within our production schedule.
• Can you do express or same-day printing?
  Whislt printed ID cards are normally produced and shipped within 7 working days of proof approval, we understand that you may need your cards in a hurry.
  
  If you have a very tight deadline, please let us know as we are often able to accomodate this within our production schedule. We can offer express delivery options and/or faster production times depending on print volumes and specific requirements.
• Do you ship internationally?
  Yes. We can ship cards internationally to a single or multiple delivery addresses.
  
  Let us know where you would like the cards delivered to and we can include this in your quotation.
• How are ID cards packaged for delivery?
  Your ID cards will be shipping using a tracked service.
  
  The exact packaging depends on the number of cards ordered, but we aim to use recycled and/or easy to recycle packaging where possible.

Data Protection & Privacy Questions

• How do you keep my staff data and photos secure?
  All data relating to your ID cards, personal information, templates, photos etc, is securely stored on cloud based servers with industry standard security protocols.
  
  Access to your ID card records is restricted to a subset of staff members with auditable access logs. All staff are trained on GDPR compliance and undertake refreshed training annually.
• Do you delete personal data after the order is complete?
  No. As standard, your card design(s) and data are securely stored on our systems to allow for easy reordering.
  
  You may of course, at any time, request that your data is deleted and we will confirm your deletion request has been processed.
  
  Please note that some data relating to your order may be retained in order that we comply with our legal requirements.
• Are you GDPR compliant?
  Yes, we take GDPR compliance very seriously.
  
  All data relating to your ID cards, personal information, templates, photos etc, is securely stored on cloud based servers with industry standard security protocols.
  
  Access to your ID card records is restricted to a subset of staff members with auditable access logs. All staff are trained on GDPR compliance and undertake refreshed training annually.

Support & Troubleshooting Questions

• Who can I contact if I need help with my design?
  Our team are able to provide any help or support you might need. Simply get in touch.
• What happens if I spot a mistake after the cards are printed?
  We provide a proof of both your template design and of all individual cards prior to production. Please carefully review all aspects of the design, including spelling. We recommend that you have multiple people review your template design and suggest having each team member review their own card too.
  
  By approving the ID card proofs you are confirming they are correct and ready for production. Any changes required after approval and production can be accomodated at your expense.
  
  Of course if there are any print issues or errors caused by us, we will fix these as a matter of urgency at no cost to you.
• Can I get a sample card before placing a full order?
  We provide a PDF proof of both your template design and of all individual cards prior to production. For most customers this is sufficient but we understand that there may be times where a physical sample is required before full production.
  
  Please let us know if you require this and we can include this in your quote. There is a small additional charge which covers the extra costs of producing a single sample card.