By RFID MFG Editorial Team · Updated September 1, 2026 · 2 min read
Factory printing: what the card lines do
Standard PVC RFID cards print offset CMYK edge to edge on both sides, with silkscreen spot colours, foil, embossing and signature or scratch panels as options; premium constructions such as metal and wood have their own marking options listed on their product pages. Printing and lamination run on the same Shenzhen lines as inlay bonding and encoding, so colour, chip and data are controlled in one place.
Variable data: numbering, barcodes and QR
Each card can carry unique printed data — sequential numbers, barcodes, QR codes or names — matched to the data encoded in the chip. The mapping file is agreed at the artwork stage and verified against the encoded IDs during production, so the printed number on the card always corresponds to the chip inside it.
Printable blank RFID cards for your own printer
If you personalise cards in house, we supply blank white CR80 RFID cards and printable white RFID labels that run through common desktop card and label printers. Chip and antenna sit inside the laminated body, so the printable surface is flat and standard. Printer models and ribbon systems vary — the sensible route is to test our free samples in your own printer before committing to a bulk order.
Artwork and proofing
Vector files (AI, PDF or EPS) print best; send what you have and you approve a digital proof before anything is printed. Free pre-production samples let you check colour and material in hand — bulk printing starts only after you approve both sample and proof.
Printing routes at a glance
| Route | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Factory offset CMYK | Branded runs from 500 pcs | Edge-to-edge colour both sides, laminated finish |
| Factory silkscreen / foil / emboss | Premium and spot-colour designs | Combined with CMYK as needed |
| Factory variable data | Numbered, barcoded or personalised cards | Printed data matched to chip encoding |
| Blank printable cards (your printer) | In-house personalisation, small batches | Standard CR80 blanks; validate with free samples |
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Frequently asked questions
Can RFID cards be printed like normal PVC cards?
Yes — the chip and antenna are laminated inside the card body, so the surface prints like any PVC card: offset CMYK, silkscreen, foil and panels are all available on RFID constructions.
Do you sell blank printable RFID cards?
Yes. Blank white CR80 RFID cards and printable white RFID labels are stock constructions, made to run through common card and label printers. Test free samples in your own printer first.
Can each printed card carry a unique number or QR code?
Yes — variable printed data (numbers, barcodes, QR, names) is matched to the chip encoding from an agreed data file, and verified during production.
What is the minimum order for custom printed RFID cards?
Factory-printed card runs start at 500 pieces, with free pre-production samples in 3–7 days and bulk production in 7–15 days after proof approval.