Card Encoding & Variable Data
The Right Card Setup Doesn't Have to Be Complicated.
Need a barcode, magnetic stripe, unique number, or other variable data? Duracard can help you determine what your system requires for card encoding and variable data and get the information onto your cards correctly.
Your POS, gift card, loyalty, or membership system may provide the information or encoding instructions for your cards. Depending on your setup, you can send those details in a CSV, Excel, or text file.
Choose the Card Setup That Fits Your System
The type of encoding or variable data you need depends on how you’ll use your cards and what your system supports.
Barcodes
A barcode gives each card a unique, machine-readable number. A barcode reader scans it, making barcodes a common choice for gift cards, loyalty cards, membership cards, key tags, and other applications.
Magnetic stripe
Magnetic stripe encoding stores information on a card’s magnetic stripe so a compatible reader can access the data. They are commonly used with gift, loyalty , and membership programs to connect each card to a customer record.
Variable data
Variable data refers to information that changes from card to card. For example, each card may include a name, account number, PIN, sequential or random number, barcode, QR code, or other unique information.
Variable Data Can Be Customized to Your Program
Variable data lets each card carry its own identifying information while the overall design stays consistent.
Depending on your program, you might include:
- Member names
- Account numbers
- PINs
- Sequential or random numbers
- Barcodes
- QR codes
- Other unique information
Variable data can be printed on the front, back, or both sides of a card. Your system or software provider may provide the data file or instructions needed to set up your cards.
Not Sure What Your System Needs? We can help.
You don’t need to be an expert in card encoding. Tell us which POS, gift card, loyalty, or membership system you’re using, and we’ll help you determine what information your cards need.
Once we know the requirements, we can help with the appropriate card setup and work with the data needed to produce your cards.