Custom Barcode Key Tags for Businesses
Barcode key tags are compact plastic tags used to quickly identify customers, members, or accounts. They are commonly attached to keychains and scanned at check-in or checkout to retrieve account information.
Because barcode key tags integrate with POS systems, compatibility must be confirmed before printing.
How Barcode Key Tags Work
Barcode key tags function as identifiers that link to customer or member accounts in your system. When scanned, the barcode is read by a scanner and the number is sent to your POS or membership software, which then retrieves the associated account information.
What Barcode Key Tags Do
- Link to customer or member accounts
- Reference loyalty or membership records
- Speed up account lookup
Barcode key tags typically do not store value directly. Instead, they act as a reference number that your system uses to look up the associated account or membership details.
If you are unsure whether barcode key tags are compatible with your POS system, we can review your setup before printing.
Common Uses for Barcode Key Tags
Barcode key tags are widely used across industries where quick customer or member identification is needed. They are especially common in businesses that rely on recurring visits or membership-based services.
Fitness & Wellness
- Gym and fitness memberships
- Yoga studios
- Chiropractic practices
- Therapy and wellness centers
Recreation & Sports
- Martial arts schools
- Golf clubs
- Swimming pools
- Sports facilities
Service Businesses
- Car wash memberships
- Dry cleaning services
- Storage facilities
- Pet grooming
Loyalty Programs
- Retail loyalty programs
- Coffee shops
- Restaurants
- Service rewards
POS and Software Compatibility
The success of barcode key tags depends entirely on compatibility with your specific POS system or membership software. Not all systems handle barcodes the same way.
Compatibility Depends On
- POS system or software used: Different systems require different barcode formats and number structures.
- Barcode type and format: Code 128, Code 39, and other formats must match what your system expects.
- Scanner hardware: Your barcode scanners must be capable of reading the format printed on the tags.
- Account lookup workflow: How your system is configured to recognize and process scanned key tag numbers.
Before printing, a real specialist reviews these details to ensure your key tags will work correctly with your system. This verification step helps prevent compatibility issues before tags are produced.
Barcode Types for Key Tags
The barcode type used on your key tags must match what your POS system or membership software is configured to read. Different barcode formats have different characteristics and compatibility requirements.
Code 128 Barcodes
Code 128 is one of the most commonly used barcode formats for key tags. It is compact, efficient, and compatible with most modern scanners and POS systems.
Recommended for most businesses using current POS systems or membership software.
Code 39 Barcodes
Code 39 is an older but still widely used barcode format. It is less compact than Code 128 but is supported by nearly all barcode scanners, including older hardware.
Used in some legacy systems or specific workflows where Code 39 is required by the POS or software configuration.
Not sure which barcode type you need? Your POS provider or membership software documentation usually specifies which barcode format is required. If you are unsure, we can help identify the correct format during the order review.
Compare Code 128 and Code 39 barcodesBarcode Numbering and Formatting
Key tag barcodes must be formatted correctly to work with your system. The barcode number structure, length, and format all affect whether your POS or software will recognize the tags when scanned.
Numbering Considerations
- Number length: Your system may require a specific number of digits (e.g., 10 digits, 13 digits, etc.).
- Sequential vs random numbering: Some businesses prefer sequential numbers, while others use random numbers for security.
- Scanner configuration: Your scanners may need to be configured to recognize the barcode format and number range.
These details are reviewed during the order process to ensure your key tags are formatted correctly for your specific system.
Barcode Key Tags vs Other Products
Barcode key tags serve a different purpose than gift cards, even though they may look similar and both use barcodes. Understanding the difference helps clarify which product is right for your business needs.
Barcode Key Tags
Used to identify accounts or memberships. They do not typically store monetary value. Instead, they link to a customer or member record in your system.
Common uses: gym memberships, loyalty programs, customer identification, account lookup.
Gift Cards
Used to store or reference monetary value. Gift cards are loaded with value and redeemed as payment for goods or services.
Common uses: prepaid gift cards, stored value cards, promotional cards with cash value.
Each type requires different handling and configuration in your POS system. If you are unsure which product you need, the key question is: Are you using these for account identification, or are they meant to hold monetary value?
Confirm Barcode Key Tag Compatibility
If you plan to use barcode key tags with your POS system or software, we can review your setup before printing.
Response in minutes. No obligation.