Printing Guide: RFID Key Cards

Learn more about ordering RFID Key Cards for Your Hotel

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) key cards have revolutionized the hotel industry by enhancing security, improving guest experience, and streamlining operations. Custom RFID key cards not only serve as room access tools for guests and staff, but also as powerful branding assets.

RFID Key Card Technology

All RFID key cards have one thing in common...the cards are embedded with a hidden technology chip inside. Depending on the door lock system installed at your hotel, the type of RFID chip needed to be compatible with your system can vary.

Types of RFID Cards

Low Frequency (LF) Cards: Operating at 125-134 kHz, these are less common in modern hotels but still used in some legacy systems.
High Frequency (HF) Cards: Operating at 13.56 MHz, these include the popular MIFARE Classic®, MIFARE DESFire®, and MIFARE Ultralight® cards. They offer better security and data storage capabilities.
Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Cards: Operating at 860-960 MHz, these provide long-range reading capabilities but are less common in hotel door lock systems.

Many hotels and resorts are in the process of upgrading to new door lock systems for enhanced security which require a different type of chip than what was used by that property in the past.

MIFARE and MIFARE Ultralight are registered trademarks of NXP B.V.

Step-by-Step Ordering Process

1. Assess Your Requirements

Before ordering custom RFID key cards, determine:

Lock System Compatibility: Identify the specific RFID technology your lock system uses.
Quantity Needed: Estimate annual card consumption (remember to account for lost cards).
Card Features: Decide on magnetic stripes, QR codes, and additional features needed.

2. Find A Reputable Supplier

Look for suppliers who:

Have experience providing RFID solutions to the hospitality industry
Offer quality guarantees and verification services
Provide competitive pricing for bulk orders
Bonus points if they manufacture their cards in the USA

3. Request Samples and Quotations

Request sample cards to test with your system
Get a quotation based on your quantity, specifications, and customization needs
Clarify turnaround times and shipping options

4. Review Technical Specifications

Confirm technical details with your supplier:

Card thickness (typically 30 mil for hotel key cards)
Plastic material being used (PVC, Composite, etc.)
Memory capacity requirements of RFID chip
Encoding protocols to ensure compatibility with your system

5. Key Card Design

Do you have professionally designed artwork ready or do you need assistance designing the artwork for your key cards? Many major hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, Wyndham, Choice Hotels, etc. have approved designs available for printing.

Some suppliers offer complimentary design services. When ordering printed product for your hotel, ensure that the designer will follow brand guidelines to ensure continuity.

Customization Options for RFID Key Cards

Visual Customization

Front of Card: Visualy engaging imagery or property images that incorporate your logo
Back of Card: Consider incorporateing terms of use, return instructions, QR codes
Finishes: Glossy, matte, or textured

Functional Customization

Dual-technology cards: Combining RFID with magnetic stripes for system transitions
Multi-application cards: Supporting room access, payment, and loyalty programs
Special form factors: Key fobs, wristbands, or custom shapes

Hotel Key Card Cost Considerations

Pricing depends on several factors:

Quantity: Larger orders typically reduce per unit costs
Technology: Brand name chips are generally more expensive than "generic" compatible alternatives
Customization level: Complex designs or special features increase costs
Encoding & programming services: These may be be required by your door lock system to ensure compatibility but in many cases they can be done onsite by your staff

Best Practices and Tips

1. Order in bulk: Most suppliers offer significant discounts for larger orders.

2. Plan ahead: Allow 2-4 weeks for production and delivery of custom RFID key cards.

3. Consider eco-friendly options: Keep an eye out for newly emerging paper RFID hotel key cards.

4. Maintain brand consistency: Ensure your key cards match other branded materials.

5. Include practical information: Add instructions for use or return information on the back.

6. Order extra stock: Keep a reserve of cards to handle unexpected needs.

Conclusion

If you are tasked with ordering custom RFID key cards for your hotel or resort, it may seem like an overwhelming task. Not sure what type of door lock system you have or RFID chip you need?

Print Robot can help to make the process easy. If you already have functioning key cards, just mail us a card and we can determine what type of chip is being used. Don’t have a card to send? We can send a variety of test cards to ensure compatibility with your door lock system.

We will work with you to determine the correct RFID chip type, capacity, and configuration for compatibility with your hotel’s door lock system. Print Robot offers affordable pricing, phenomenal customer support, and proudly manufactures all cards in the USA from their factory in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Click here to get started

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