Table of Contents:
What Is an RFID Label?
Are RFID Labels and RFID Tags the Same?
What Are RFID Labels Made Of?
How Are RFID Labels Made?
Types of RFID Labels.
How Are RFID Labels Printed?
How to Scan an RFID Label?
RFID Label Applications.
How Long Does an RFID Label Last?
What to Consider When Choosing an RFID Label?
How Much Cost the RFID Labels?
Conclusion.
Overview
With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT) and intelligent technologies, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology, as an efficient and convenient automatic identification method, is increasingly being applied in various fields such as logistics, retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. As the core component of this technology, RFID labels play a vital role in information storage and transmission. Choosing the right RFID label can not only improve the accuracy and efficiency of data collection but also significantly optimize management processes, helping enterprises achieve intelligent upgrades.
What Is an RFID Label?
RFID technology has seen rapid growth and widespread adoption across various industries such as manufacturing, transportation and logistics, and healthcare. RFID, short for Radio Frequency Identification, enables wireless communication between devices using radio waves. At the heart of this technology are RFID labels, which play a vital role in the effectiveness of any RFID-based solution.
An RFID label is a specialized tag embedded with a tiny microchip and antenna. When placed near an RFID reader, the radio waves emitted by the reader activate the chip, allowing it to transmit stored information back to the reader. This data may include details such as a product's name, price, or even its current location.
In retail, RFID labels are commonly used for product tracking and in-store inventory management, helping ensure accurate stock placement and availability. Within warehouses, these labels enhance shipment tracking and improve supply chain efficiency. In the healthcare sector, RFID is used for managing medical equipment, tracking patient medication usage, and optimizing inventory control of medical supplies.
Overall, RFID labels offer businesses a smart and efficient way to wirelessly manage and share information, proving highly valuable across a wide range of real-world applications.
Are RFID Labels and RFID Tags the Same?
Although there are some technical distinctions between RFID tags and RFID labels, the two terms are often used interchangeably in practice to refer to devices that utilize radio frequency identification technology.
An RFID tag typically refers to a small electronic device attached to an item, enabling identification and tracking through radio waves. It consists of a microchip and an antenna and comes in various forms suited for different applications and environments.
In contrast, an RFID label is a type of tag where the RFID chip and antenna are embedded within a label or sticker. These labels usually have adhesive backing, allowing them to be easily affixed to product packaging, equipment, or other assets. Their thin, flexible design makes them popular for inventory management, asset tracking, and scenarios requiring quick and easy identification.
RFID tags can be designed as embedded components, surface-mounted devices, or wearable items. RFID labels, on the other hand, are primarily intended for attachment to the surface of objects, offering a convenient and versatile application method.
RFID tags are a fundamental part of the system, so choosing the right tag is essential for the system to function properly. Each tag contains a chip and an antenna, and this combination is known as the RFID inlay. Based on whether they have their own power source, RFID tags are generally divided into three categories, each with distinct features and applications:
Passive tags do not have an internal battery; they rely on the radio waves emitted by the RFID reader to power the chip. Due to this dependency, passive tags have a limited reading range, typically from zero up to 15 meters. They are compact and cost-effective, making them the most widely used type.
Active tags come with a built-in battery that powers the chip and continuously transmits signals. This allows them to achieve a much longer reading range—up to around 100 meters. However, because of the battery and transmitter, active tags are more expensive.
Semi-active tags combine the advantages of both passive and active tags. While they are activated by signals from the reader, their chip is powered by an internal battery, enabling faster and more reliable responses as well as data storage. Semi-active tags offer a longer reading range than passive tags but come at a higher cost and have limited lifespan due to battery usage.
In summary, while there are structural and functional differences between RFID tags and labels, they are often collectively referred to as “RFID tags” in many industries since both serve as tools that use wireless technology for object identification and information tracking.
What Are RFID Labels Made Of?
RFID labels are composed of several key materials that work together to enable wireless identification and communication. The main components typically include:
Substrate: This is the base material of the label, often made from flexible materials such as paper, plastic (polyethylene terephthalate—PET), or synthetic films. The substrate provides structural support and durability.
Antenna: Usually made from thin conductive materials like aluminum or copper, the antenna is printed or etched onto the substrate. It captures and transmits radio frequency signals between the RFID chip and the reader.
RFID Chip : A tiny silicon chip embedded in the label stores the data and processes signals. This chip contains a unique identification code or other information about the item.
Adhesive: The backside of the RFID label typically has a layer of adhesive that allows it to be easily attached to products or surfaces.
Protective Layer: Some RFID labels have an additional protective coating or laminate to safeguard the antenna and chip from environmental factors like moisture, abrasion, or chemicals.
How Are RFID Labels Made?
How to Make an RFID Label (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Antenna
Materials: Use conductive materials like aluminum, copper, or silver ink.
Method: Print or etch the antenna design onto a flexible surface (usually PET or paper).
The antenna allows the RFID chip to receive and send signals.
2. Attach the RFID Chip
Get a compatible RFID chip (IC).
Place it precisely on the antenna contact points.
Use flip-chip bonding or wire bonding to make a secure electrical connection.
The chip stores and processes the data.
3. Create the Inlay
The chip + antenna = RFID inlay.
Laminate the inlay between two layers (top and bottom), such as plastic, paper, or PET film.
Add adhesive on the back so the label can stick to objects.
4. Print the Label (Optional)
Use an RFID printer to print:
Text
Barcodes
Branding or logos
Also encode the chip with digital data (e.g., product ID, batch number).
5. Test the Label
Use an RFID reader to:
Check if the chip is readable
Verify the data
Confirm signal strength and range
6. Cut and Package
Die-cut the finished labels into individual pieces or rolls.
Package them for shipping or integration into your product or system.
Tools & Materials You Might Need:
RFID chips (passive or active)
Conductive material (copper/aluminum)
Flexible substrate (PET/paper)
RFID printer/encoder
Laminating machine
RFID reader/tester
Types of RFID Labels.
Choosing the right RFID label is essential and should be based on the product type and the environmental conditions it will face. That’s why RFID labels are categorized by application to ensure optimal performance across different industries. We adhere to global standards and offer flexible solutions tailored to various use cases.
Our RFID labels come in a range of materials—including coated paper, polyethylene, nylon, and cardboard—and in multiple delivery formats such as rolls, fanfold stacks, or individual pieces. Below are the main categories of RFID labels we offer:
1. General-Purpose RFID Labels
These versatile labels can be customized in terms of size, chip type, memory capacity, and substrate. They comply with international RFID protocols and are compatible with standard RFID printers. Suitable for use in logistics, manufacturing, and container tracking.
2. Industrial-Grade Durable RFID Labels
Designed for tough environments, these labels can withstand high temperatures, moisture, chemicals, and abrasion. Ideal for labeling automotive parts, pallets, or any equipment exposed to extreme industrial conditions.
3. RFID Timing Labels for Sports Events
Perfect for athletic competitions like marathons and cycling races, these labels are thin, moisture-resistant, and easy to attach to race bibs or shoes. Their lightweight design ensures fast and accurate read rates. Compatible with all major RFID printers.
4. RFID Labels for Metal Surfaces
Engineered to overcome signal interference caused by metal, these tags are optimized for direct application on metallic assets. Commonly used in sectors such as aerospace, steel manufacturing, and electronics.
5. Retail RFID Tags
Specially designed for the fashion and retail industry, including heat-sealed labels, fabric tags, and hang tags. These labels support brand customization through printing and encoding, offering benefits like inventory accuracy, anti-counterfeiting, and brand storytelling.
6. Vehicle RFID Tags
Used in access control, fleet management, and vehicle identification. These tags are built to endure external environments and do not leave residue on glass or body surfaces. Suitable for cars, trucks, and buses.
7. RFID Tags for Laundry
Ideal for textile tracking in commercial laundries and hotels. These flexible and durable tags are washable, sewable, and designed to withstand repeated industrial washing cycles, improving linen tracking and inventory management.
8. RFID Tags for Laboratories
Lab-grade RFID labels meet stringent requirements such as resistance to chemicals, extreme cold, or heat. They are used for tracking vials, samples, reagents, or materials requiring precise, contactless identification—automating data capture in lab environments.
How Are RFID Labels Printed?
RFID tags are typically produced using specialized RFID label printers. These printers can be either thermal or inkjet-based and require dedicated software for designing and encoding the labels. During the printing process, the label material is loaded into the printer, and the software manages both the printing of visual elements on the label's surface and the encoding of data into the RFID chip.
To ensure optimal print quality and reliable tag performance, it is essential to follow the operational guidelines provided by the printer and label manufacturers.
There are various types of RFID printers available on the market to suit different operational environments:
1. Industrial Printers: Designed for continuous use in demanding environments such as manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, asset management, and shipping/receiving. These high-performance devices support a wide range of label sizes and offer efficient encoding capabilities.
2. Desktop Printers: Ideal for low to medium print volumes, these compact units are commonly used in retail, healthcare, entertainment, and inventory tracking to encode RFID tags or wristbands. Their small footprint makes them suitable for office or indoor settings.
3. Card Printers: These devices are designed for printing and encoding RFID smart cards. They support single or dual-sided color printing with high image quality, making them suitable for producing gift cards, access badges, financial cards, and personal IDs in security, event management, or healthcare environments.
4. Portable Printers: Lightweight and easy to carry, portable RFID printers enable on-the-go label printing and help improve workflow efficiency. They are mainly used in mobile operations for labeling goods, packages, and documents in retail, logistics, and transport management.
5. Color RFID Printers: Capable of high-speed printing with high resolution, these printers combine visual printing with RFID encoding. They can be either industrial or desktop models and are frequently used in logistics, warehousing, order picking, and packaging operations.
How to Scan an RFID Label?
The process of scanning an RFID tag is carried out through wireless communication between an RFID reader and the tag. Here are the general steps for scanning an RFID tag:
1. Prepare the RFID Reader
First, you need an RFID reader that supports the frequency of the tags you’re using. Common frequency bands include:
· Low Frequency (LF): 125kHz, suitable for short-range reading (a few centimeters), such as access cards.
· High Frequency (HF): 13.56MHz, commonly used in libraries, transit cards, access control, etc.
· Ultra-High Frequency (UHF): 860–960MHz, with longer read range (several meters), suitable for logistics, warehousing, asset tracking, etc.
2. Ensure the Tag is Activated and Readable
RFID tags are categorized as:
· Passive Tags: No battery; powered by the reader’s signal.
· Active Tags: Contain a built-in battery and can transmit signals on their own.
· Semi-Active (Semi-Passive) Tags: Have a battery but require activation by the reader.
Ensure the tag is not obstructed (metal or liquids may interfere with the signal) and is within the reader’s antenna range.
3. Power On the RFID Reader
Turn on the reader and initiate scanning using the associated software or system. Tags within the reader’s RF field will be activated and respond with their stored data, such as:
· Unique ID (EPC code)
· Product or asset number
· Batch information
· Custom data fields
4. View the Scan Results
The read data is transmitted via serial port, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc., to software on a computer or mobile device for display and processing.
5. Optional Function: Write or Update Tag Information
Some RFID readers support writing or updating data on tags. This is typically used for asset initialization, inventory updates, and similar tasks, and requires compatible software and compliance with tag format specifications.
RFID Label Applications.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology has become increasingly integrated into a wide range of industries and operational processes. More and more businesses are incorporating this system into their workflows. Below are typical sectors and practical examples where RFID plays a significant role:
Supply Chain Optimization
RFID is a key tool in supply chain management. By automating product identification and data collection, it enables full tracking of item movement throughout the entire process, reducing manual tasks and increasing efficiency. RFID tags attached to each item allow for real-time status monitoring, significantly improving productivity and lowering operational costs.
Industrial Applications
Manufacturing industries prioritize efficient operations and precise management. RFID is especially valuable in processes that require fast identification and accurate data collection, replacing traditional manual methods.
For instance, in the automotive sector, manufacturers and parts suppliers use RFID to manage assembly lines, trace part history, and store critical details such as serial numbers and production dates. This ensures full traceability and simplifies coordination across the supply chain.
Logistics and Warehousing
The logistics industry has seen notable improvements with RFID implementation. It enhances warehouse automation by enabling rapid identification of goods, streamlining check-in/check-out, intelligent picking, and packaging. Compared to barcodes, RFID allows for simultaneous reading of multiple tags, cutting down on manual verification and speeding up the entire logistics flow.
Retail Sector
RFID has revolutionized retail operations. Tags placed on merchandise allow retailers to track the real-time location and stock levels of each item, improving inventory accuracy and preventing stockouts. RFID also serves as an anti-theft measure, triggering alarms if products are taken without being properly checked out.
Modern retailers also leverage RFID to offer smart fitting rooms and interactive displays that suggest sizes, styles, or additional products, enhancing the customer experience. It's especially popular in fashion, jewelry, and cosmetics industries.
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
Hospitals and pharmaceutical companies handle vast amounts of sensitive data, from patient information to medication inventory. RFID streamlines this process with wristbands and tagged supplies, enabling real-time monitoring of patients and assets, reducing paperwork, and improving safety.
The system also helps with tracking staff access to secure areas and ensures precise delivery of treatments and medications.
Food Safety and Traceability
Food industry operations depend heavily on safety and traceability. RFID enables complete tracking of food products—from harvest to delivery—monitoring temperature in cold chains, maturation timing, movement between storage areas, and expiration dates.
Tags can store essential product details such as batch numbers, sizes, and types, helping ensure compliance with food safety regulations and reducing waste from expired stock.
Libraries and Document Management
RFID tags provide a unique ID for each book or document, allowing libraries and archives to manage lending, returns, and inventory far more efficiently. Users can even check availability online.
In official use, RFID is used to verify and authenticate documents, preventing forgery and improving record-keeping accuracy.
Sports Event Timing
In races and athletic competitions, participants wear RFID tags that allow for accurate tracking and timing. These disposable tags can be attached to bibs, shoes, or clothing, offering precise time recording without interfering with performance.
Asset Tracking and Location
With RFID tagging, businesses can track the real-time location and movement of assets—on-site or remotely. Items that are misplaced or moved improperly can be easily located, and environmental changes (like temperature or humidity) can be monitored for sensitive equipment or goods.
This prevents loss, improves accountability, and streamlines asset management.
Automated Inventory Management
RFID helps businesses manage inventory in real time. Each item can be uniquely identified, reducing duplication and errors. Product details and storage locations are instantly accessible, ensuring more accurate, up-to-date stock levels.
This translates into time savings, cost reductions, and improved operational efficiency.
Access and Entry Control
One of RFID’s most common uses is in access control systems. Whether monitoring goods entering/exiting a warehouse or managing attendees at an event, RFID portals can instantly identify and count tags passing through.
It’s widely applied in corporate offices, hotels, exhibitions, and logistics centers for employee identification, guest access, and automated door control.
How Long Does an RFID Label Last?
Under typical usage conditions, passive RFID lables—which do not rely on an internal power source—are known for their durability and long lifespan. Because they lack batteries and have a simple, stable design, these lables can theoretically last indefinitely, provided they are not physically damaged or exposed to severe electromagnetic interference. This longevity makes passive lables a popular choice in applications requiring long-term tracking and identification, such as inventory control, access systems, and asset management.
In contrast, active RFID lables come equipped with an internal battery that allows them to actively transmit signals, offering advanlablees in read range and data transmission capabilities. However, this reliance on battery power naturally limits their lifespan. On average, the battery life of an active RFID lable ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on the size of the battery and how frequently the lable is used. In high-use scenarios or environments where the lable is constantly transmitting data, the battery may deplete more quickly, shortening the effective lifespan.
That said, ongoing advances in RFID technology have significantly improved power management and energy efficiency in active lables. As a result, many modern active RFID solutions are capable of operating reliably for extended periods, even in demanding conditions.
When selecting between passive and active RFID lables, it's important to consider several factors, including operational environment, read range requirements, lable usage frequency, and overall cost-effectiveness, to ensure the chosen solution aligns with your specific application needs.
What to Consider When Choosing an RFID Label?
Label and Inlay Size
Products vary in size, so it is crucial to choose an RFID label size that fits the product. Additionally, the inlay must always be smaller than the label itself. If a longer read range is required, a larger inlay is generally needed to enhance signal coverage, but remember that the inlay should never exceed the label size.
Surface Characteristics
The material and condition of the surface to be tagged directly affect the choice of label material and adhesive. Different surfaces can significantly impact RFID performance. The following questions can help determine the appropriate label type:
· Will the label be applied to a smooth or rough surface?
· Will the surface be dry or wet during labeling?
· Is the target surface metal, plastic, glass, or another material?
· What type of adhesive is needed to ensure the label sticks securely?
Mounting Method and Label Orientation
The position of the label relative to the RFID reader greatly affects the signal reading efficiency and range. When designing the system, the installation location and angle of the label must be considered. Sometimes, using a “flag” or “fin” design to separate the inlay from the tagged surface can improve read performance.
Environmental Factors
Environmental conditions are also critical when selecting a label. Consider these questions:
· What is the ambient temperature when applying the label?
· What temperature variations will the label face throughout its lifecycle?
· How long is the required lifespan of the label?
· Does the label need chemical resistance?
· Must the label withstand abrasion?
· Is the label intended for single use or multiple reuses?
· Will the label need to endure sterilization or high-temperature disinfection?
Radio Frequency Considerations
Unlike barcodes, which require a direct line of sight, RFID labels do not. However, some environments pose challenges. For example, liquids inside containers absorb RF signals, impacting reading performance. Using “flag” or “fin” designs can help improve signal strength. Metal surfaces are tricky because they reflect RF signals, making labeling difficult. Zebra’s Silverline RFID labels offer a convenient solution for on-metal applications. Field testing is strongly recommended when deploying RFID in challenging environments.
Memory and Chip Capacity
Choose the appropriate inlay type based on the amount of data to be written to the chip. Standard applications typically use general-purpose or advanced inlays, but if large amounts of user data need to be stored, inlays with higher memory capacity should be considered.
Hardware Compatibility
The RFID label must be compatible with the corresponding hardware. When printing labels, consider whether a mobile, desktop, or industrial printer will be used and select materials accordingly. For reading, decide between handheld or wearable readers. The overall hardware environment determines the best matching label type.
How Much Cost the RFID Labels?
There are many factors that affect the price of an RFID tag, including the chip type, label size, material used, adhesive type, order quantity, memory capacity, and packaging format. Due to these varying factors, the price of tags can fluctuate, ranging from just a few cents to higher amounts.
To get the best price for an RFID tag that suits your needs, it is recommended to contact the experts at CBT. They will provide professional advice based on your specific requirements and assist you throughout the entire purchasing process.
Conclusion.
In summary, RFID labels play an indispensable role in modern information management. Proper selection and application of RFID labels can significantly enhance asset tracking, inventory management, and supply chain transparency, thereby improving operational efficiency and competitiveness. With ongoing technological advancements, the scope of RFID label applications will continue to expand, helping industries move towards a new era of intelligence.
If you would like to learn more about professional RFID label solutions, please feel free to contact the experts at CBT. We are ready to tailor the best solutions to help your business achieve smart upgrades.
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