I frequently receive calls from new customers who have already selected an ID system on our website. Many of these shoppers tell me "this system meets our needs” and they simply want to finalize their order. Whenever I receive a call like this I immediately ask how this system meets their needs and find out more about their application. More often than not we uncover that the requirement the system meets is their price range. However, ID card printers should not be purchased based on price alone.
Every card printing system has its place, and a small business might not always require a small ID badge system. For example, if your organization is printing a barcode or has a magnetic stripe on your card, you will want to consider a laminating ID card printer. Otherwise, after a number of swipes, the images you have printed on the card will be scratched and in some cases not even visible.
Another example: if your company prints a small number of cards throughout the year, but have one week where the equipment gets heavy usage, you will need a machine capable of handling that volume, plus loaner coverage on the equipment in the event of a breakdown.
In closing, there are many options available. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about differences between the equipment, and definitely do not purchase an ID badge system on price alone. You are only setting yourself up for failure if you do not know exactly what you are buying. After all, no one wants to make a large capital investment and not be satisfied with what they have purchased.
My recommendation is to do your homework, contact an ID professional, and make certain you know exactly what you are purchasing before you hit the checkout button. Give us a call at (800) 321-4405 or use our live chat to get started!