Best Practices: Guidelines Storage Plastic Cards Handling and Safety

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Plastic cards are everywhere these days, from gift cards and membership cards to loyalty and access cards. They are vital tools in today's day-to-day transactions, reflecting your brand's image and ensuring convenience for your clients. Proper storage of these cards is crucial to maintaining their longevity and performance. At Plastic Card ID , we're here to walk you through the best practices for keeping your plastic cards in tip-top shape, so each time they're pulled out of a wallet, they look as good as new and function seamlessly. If you've got questions or are ready for a new order, just reach out to us at 800.835.7919 - we serve everyone, nationwide!

The quality of your plastic cards is a representation of your brand's commitment to quality. To keep them in pristine condition, store them away from extreme temperatures, as heat can warp the plastic and cold can make it brittle. Keep them in a temperate, stable environment to avoid any damage.

Another key to maintaining card quality is handling. Encourage users to treat the cards gently and to store them in appropriate cardholders or sleeves when not in use. This reduces scratches or dents that might accumulate from rough handling.

Effective storage isn't just about keeping your cards clean and undamaged. It's about organizing them in a manner that makes them readily accessible while also protected. Consider using dedicated card storage boxes, drawers, or even binders with plastic card pages. These solutions can help keep cards neat and tidy.

Storing your cards in individual slots also helps prevent magnetic strips or chip contacts from scratching or degrading over time. This is especially important if cards will be stored for an extended period before being issued or used.

For cards that provide access or carry personal information, security becomes an additional concern. Proper storage entails both physical protection and measures to prevent unauthorized use. Store these types of cards in a secured location, such as a safe or a locked cabinet.

Moreover, keep a log of who accesses the storage area, and regularly check the inventory. This helps detect any potential misuse early and ensures that any lost or stolen cards can be promptly deactivated or replaced.

  • Keep cards away from heat and cold to avoid damage
  • Store in cardholders or sleeves to prevent scratches
  • Use dedicated storage boxes or binders for organization
  • Store sensitive cards securely to prevent unauthorized use

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Plastic cards can last for years when cared for properly, and at Plastic Card ID , we believe it's all in the details. By following our comprehensive guidelines, not only do you safeguard the cards" functionality and appearance, but you also convey to your clients a sense of the value and quality you place on each interaction with your brand. Remember, for any service or to place new orders, you can always contact us at 800.835.7919 , serving you from coast to coast.

Routine Inspections

A simple but often overlooked aspect of card care is routine inspections. Check the cards regularly for signs of wear and tear. If they're starting to look a bit shabby or aren't functioning as well, it might be time to replace them. Regular inspections ensure issues are dealt with promptly.

This proactiveness not only extends the life of the cards but also reflects well on your establishment. A well-maintained card keeps the user's experience smooth and frustration-free.

Cleaning Procedures

Even with careful storage, plastic cards can collect dirt and oils from handling. To clean them, use a soft, lint-free cloth. Gently wipe the surface without using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the card or its magnetic strip/chip.

For businesses that issue cards, instruct your staff on proper cleaning methods. This instruction ensures that all team members are equipped to keep the cards in great condition before handing them over to clients or members.

Dealing with Demagnetization

Magnetic strips can be demagnetized when exposed to magnets or magnetic fields. This includes anything from refrigerator magnets to certain types of electronic equipment. To avoid this, store cards away from potential hazards, and remind cardholders to do the same.

If a card does become demagnetized, it might be time to look into re-encoding options or replacing the card to maintain seamless service for your users.

  • Conduct regular inspections to catch wear early
  • Adopt a gentle cleaning process for longevity
  • Store cards away from magnetic fields to prevent data loss

Storing your plastic cards correctly might seem like a small task, but it's these little touches that keep your operations running smoothly and your cards working flawlessly. By implementing these guidelines, you ensure that each swipe, tap, or scan is a testament to the reliability and professionalism of your brand. Ready to take your card care to the next level or need to restock your inventory? Get in touch with us at 800.835.7919 no matter where you are in the country, we have you covered.

Remember, when the time comes to dispose of old plastic cards, recycling is always a wise choice. While we keep our focus on the basics of care and storage, contributing to a recycling program can be a simple yet effective way to handle discard. This practice isn't just about keeping things tidy-it's also about maintaining a responsible stance towards environmental stewardship, albeit subtly.

At Plastic Card ID , we pride ourselves on providing you with actionable, straightforward guidelines that make a real difference in extending the life and functionality of your plastic cards. With these best practices in place, you can be confident that your cards will serve you well, making every interaction with them a positive reflection of your commitment to excellence. For expert advice and top-notch service, reach out to us at 800.835.7919 . Together, let's make sure your cards stay in peak condition, ready to impress and perform day after day!