RFID labels - How to handle and store

Best practices

In order to get the best performance possible from your RFID inlays and labels, we have put together the following guidelines and advice.

Failure to do so will result in permanent damage.

Do not store under a heavy load

Keep in a dry place

Do not expose to heat

General recommendations

1. Tags are electronic devices with sensitive RF properties and can break if not handled with care.

2. Make sure that the application of tags follows the correct procedures to ensure highest performance and quality.

3. Metallic or conductive materials are not suitable for RFID labels as they may weaken RF performance. (Except for specific RFID metal labels)

4. Handling of RFID products shall be performed by trained personnel only. In case of doubt, please consult Checkpoint Systems.

No static electricity

No
puncturing

No
tearing

No
folding

No
cutting

No
buttons

No
stapling

No
liquids

No washing or stone washing

Direct ironing - Max 2 seconds

Direct steaming - Max 2 seconds

No spinning or tumble drying

No
dry cleaning

No
wringing

No
bleaching

No application on metal*

No metal foil application

No
glue**

*Unless a specific RFID on-metal label, please consult Checkpoint Systems if unsure

**Other than the glue already applied to your chosen RFID form factor (ie, sticker)

Further guidance

RFID in a work environment

In order to avoid IC damage due to static electricity or climatic conditions (temperature and humidity), the following changes can be made to working environment:

• Coat the floor with an antistatic layer, at least on the working platforms.

• Check the air humidity (40-60% RH) and temperature. (20 to 24°C)

• If there is not air conditioning in the production facility, isolate the RFID department and install up-to date air conditioning in that area.

• All employees should wear ESD (electrostatic discharge) clothing and shoes.

• Every time someone touches a roll of inlays, he or she should be grounded.

Recommendations for handling & packaging

Handling before or during converting/printing:

• Do not open the inlay roll package unnecessarily.

• Open the package only in the RFID facility.

• Do not touch the IC side of the inlay if you are not connected to the ground.

• Try to use the whole roll in one pass.

• If using the whole roll is not possible, put the roll back into the original package, seal it and take it back to storage.

• Do not damage or drop the roll.

• Always keep inlay reels on their side.

• Do not lay rolls on top of inlays.

• Inspect traceability label on the roll and yield prior to converting.

• Review inlay specification for delivery format.

HAndling after converting / printing

• Handle the product with care.

• Finish and pack the product directly after inserting.

• When stored, hang the reel from the core or place it on a pallet with a soft underlay.

• Do not wind reels too tight.

• Always keep inlay reels on their side.

• Do not stack pallets or too many RFID products on top of each other.

• Do not roll mother rolls or ready coils on the floor, carry them or use a trolley.

• Keep the working environment tidy and clean.

Packaging

• Use a strong package that protects the product well against the moisture.

• Lock rolls with a center shaft or chucks to prevent them from gliding in the box during transport.

• Packaging material must not create static electricity load when handled.