Not sure how to get started making barcode labels or ID cards? The processes may seem confusing at first as you many not be familiar with the related terms and technologies. For your convenience, we have prepared How To guides to help get you up and running.

How To Make Barcode Labels
Learn what is required to produce professional barcode labels.

How To Make Simple (Mailing, Shipping, More) Labels
Learn how to create simple labels such as those used for mailing, shipping, and general purposes.

How To Make ID Cards and Badges
Learn how to design and print secure ID cards and badges.

How To Make Barcode Labels

1. What kind of printer do I need to print barcode labels?
2. Do I need a barcode label printer to print barcode labels?
3. What kind of labels can I print barcode labels on?
4. What software do I need to create barcode labels?
5. Can I have someone else print my labels?

1. What kind of printer do I need to print barcode labels?
   The type of printer required to print barcode labels is typically related to the size of the label your are trying to print. The space between each bar in a barcode must be distinguishable. For most standard size barcodes, such as those found on UPC symbols, mailing, or shipping labels, a standard laserjet printer will typically work very well, and a deskjet printer will often be sufficient. For very small barcodes, such as those used to mark electronic parts, a special label printer may be required. Specialized printers such as thermal, barcode label, and plastic card (PVC) printers should also work.
   
   
2. Do I need a barcode label printer to print barcode labels?
   No, barcode label printers are not required to print barcode labels. If you print very large volumes of barcodes labels, you may find that using a barcode printer will provide print speed improvements when combined with software that can print barcodes using the printer's native language. Check with your software vendor to verify if your barcode label printer is supported.
   
   
3. What kind of labels can I print barcodes labels on?
   Barcodes are typically printed on white label stock. Stock that is not white or that is too reflective may cause problems for barcode scanners and is not recommended. Standard label stock, such as that which is found in office supply stores should work fine.
   
   
4. What software do I need to print barcode labels?
   Barcode label software, such as Label Flow, will allow you to quickly and efficiently design and print barcode labels. If you have a database or spreadsheet already configured, you can use Label Flow to connect to it, or you can create a new database. Other labeling products are also available, such as those from our competitors, but users and industry professionals alike will tell you that Label Flow is the best barcode label software available.
   
   
5. Can I have someone else print my barcode labels?
   If you are looking to print barcode labels one time only, then you may want to find a company that will print barcode labels for you. Typically printing companies are fairly expensive and you will save money in the long term by printing your labels in-house. Printing companies may be easily found using an internet search.
   
   

1. What kind of printer do I need to print simple labels?
2. What kind of label stock should I use?
3. What software do I need to create labels?
4. Can I have someone else print my labels?

1. What kind of printer do I need to print simple labels?
   For simple labels, a standard laserjet printer will work fine and even a deskjet printer will often be sufficient. Specialized printers such as thermal, barcode label, and plastic card (PVC) printers should also work.
   
   
2. What kind of label stock should I use?
   Generally speaking, it is up to you to select what size and style of label stock to print on. If you are printing mailing or shipping labels, it is important to use label stock that is easy to read, and white is often the best choice. Most office supply stores have label stock available in numerous sizes, shapes, and colors.
   
   
3. What software do I need to create labels?
   Label software, such as Label Flow, will allow you to quickly and efficiently design and print all types of labels. If you have a database or spreadsheet already configured, you can use Label Flow to connect to it, or you can create a new database. Other labeling products are also available, such as those from our competitors, but users and industry professionals alike will tell you that Label Flow is the best label software available.
   
   
4. Can I have someone else print my barcode labels?
   If you are looking to print labels one time only, then you may want to find a company that will print your labels for you. Typically, printing companies are fairly expensive and you will save money long term by printing your labels in-house on demand. Printing companies may be easily found using an internet search.
   
   

1. What kind of printer do I need to print ID cards?
2. Do I need an ID card printer to print ID cards?
3. What kinds of cards and badges are available?
4. What software do I need to create ID cards?
5. Can I have someone else print my ID cards?

1. What kind of printer do I need to print ID cards?
   The type of printer required to print ID cards or badges is dependent on your requirements. If you would like to print on plastic cards similar to a credit card or a drivers license, then a plastic card printer is required. Alternative methods, such as printing on heavy paper stock, and then laminating the paper or putting the paper inside a badge holder is often a cost effective solution.
   
   
2. Do I need an ID card printer to print ID cards?
   No, ID card printers are not always required. Read the previous question for additional information.
   
   
3. What kinds of cards and badges are available?
   ID cards and badges come in a few standard sizes. The typical size, CR80, is the size of a credit card. Other common sizes include CR100 which is the standard Military size, CR 70, CR79, CR90, and more. Some plastic cards include magnetic stripes on the back, holograms, smart chips and other security devices, while others do not.
   
   
4. What software do I need to create ID cards?
   ID card software, such as ID Flow, will allow you to quickly and efficiently design and print ID cards and badges. If you have a database or spreadsheet already configured, you can use ID Flow to connect to it, or you can create a new database. Other ID card and badge products are also available, such as those from our competitors, but users and industry professionals alike will tell you that ID Flow is the best ID card software available.
   
   
5. Can I have someone else print my ID cards?
   If you are looking to print ID cards one time only, then you may want to find a company that will print them for you. Typically, printing companies are fairly expensive and you will save money long term by printing your ID cards in-house. You will also have better control over the design and content when you design the cards yourself. Printing companies may be easily found using an internet search.