The Complete Guide to ID Card Printing for Small Businesses in the UK
The Complete Guide to ID Card Printing for Small Businesses in the UK
ID card printing is the process of creating personalised identification cards, usually printed on cr80 pvc plastic cards, that display key information. For example: name, role, company logo, and photo. For UK small businesses, ID card systems are more than just security measures. They’re vital tools for identity verification, branding, and access control.
Whether you need employee ID cards, visitor badges, or custom access passes, having the right solution in place helps maintain safety, streamline daily operations, and present a professional image. In this guide, we’ll cover everything a small business needs to know. From choosing ID card machines to ordering ID card printing online.
Why Small Businesses Need ID Cards
While ID card systems were once exclusive to large organisations, they are now affordable and accessible for businesses of all sizes. Here's why small businesses in the UK should consider using ID cards:
1. Improved Security
Company ID cards help ensure that only authorised personnel can access your premises. Whether printed in-house or through ID cards printing online, having a standard identification process in place reduces the risk of unauthorised access.
2. Employee Identification
Using employee ID cards allows staff to quickly recognise one another, especially in growing teams or multi-site businesses. It’s also useful in customer-facing roles, where clear identification builds trust and credibility.
3. Visitor Management
Visitor ID cards make it easy to identify non-staff members on-site. A simple badge issued at reception ensures guests are easily visible and can be managed more effectively.
4. Branding and Professionalism
Branded staff ID cards add a layer of polish to your operation. Including your company’s logo, colour scheme, and font style makes each card part of your overall brand identity.
5. Tracking and Access Control
ID cards can be embedded with barcodes or RFID chips, which can then be integrated with access control systems, time tracking tools, and asset management systems. This adds automation and accountability to daily operations.
Types of ID Cards: Employee, Staff, Visitor, Custom
There are several types of ID cards small businesses typically use:
Employee ID Cards
Standard staff ID cards usually include a photo, employee name, job title, and company branding. These are essential for day-to-day identification and help maintain a secure workplace.
Visitor ID Cards
Issued on arrival and returned when the guest leaves, visitor badges allow you to monitor who is on the premises at any given time. These can be temporary or reusable.
Custom ID Cards
Some businesses require custom ID cards for memberships, loyalty programmes, or events. These can include custom designs, QR codes, or additional security features.
Contractor & Temporary Staff Cards
If you use temporary workers or third-party contractors, it’s important they wear different ID cards than permanent staff. This helps differentiate roles and manage access accordingly.
Choosing the Right ID Card Printing Machine
If you plan to print cards in-house, selecting the right ID card machine is key. Here’s how to choose the best option for your business:
1. Define Your Requirements
Do you need to print a few cards per month or hundreds per week? Will your cards include photos, barcodes, or magnetic stripes? Understanding your needs helps narrow down your options.
2. Printer Type
- Direct-to-Card (DTC) Printers: Best for everyday printing. Affordable and efficient for basic pvc standard staff ID cards.
- Retransfer Printers: Offers higher quality prints and better coverage, and necessary to print on smart cards or cards with embedded chips.
3. Single-Sided vs. Dual-Sided
Single-sided printers are great for simple badges, while dual-sided printers allow you to add more data, like contact information or health and safety instructions, on the reverse side.
4. Additional Features
- Encoding capabilities (RFID, magnetic stripe)
- Lamination for added card durability
- Bundled design software for easy customisation
5. Buy from a Trusted UK Supplier
At Lesar UK, we offer a full range of ID card machines for small businesses. Our printers are ideal for internal use, and we supply everything you need to get started, including cards, ribbons, software, and technical support.
For more help deciding which ID printer is best for you and your needs, contact our friendly team of experts, or read our guide.
Benefits of Printing ID Cards Online
For small businesses that don’t want the upfront cost or responsibility of maintaining a printer, plastic card printing online is an ideal solution. Here's why:
1. No Equipment Investment
You don’t need to purchase a printer or supplies. Simply send your design and details, and let a professional service handle the rest.
2. Order Only What You Need
Online services like CardHero allow you to order any number of cards, even just one. This is perfect for small teams or one-off hires, and have as many designs as you like!
3. Save Time and Effort
With ID cards printing online, there's no need to worry about printing errors, ribbon replacements, or software updates. Everything is taken care of for you.
4. Professional Finish
We use high-resolution printers and quality materials to ensure every card is crisp, durable, and secure.
5. Simple Online Portal
CardHero includes an easy-to-use online platform for placing and managing orders. Employees can even upload their own photos using a secure Magic Link, reducing admin work for your HR or operations team.
6. Fast Turnaround
Your company ID cards are printed in the UK and delivered straight to your door, typically within 3–6 working days.
How to Get Started Printing
If you prefer to print ID cards in-house, we supply top-rated ID card machines for small businesses. We help you choose the right printer, supply you with accessories and software, and offer ongoing support so you can print your own staff ID cards, visitor badges or custom cards on demand.
Order Printed Cards
CardHero has printed over a million cards for businesses, charities, schools, and healthcare providers across the UK. CardHero is ideal for:
- Startups and small teams
- Companies without printing equipment
- Organisations that need fast, professional results
From employee ID cards to custom access badges, we make ordering easy and efficient.
For advice or to enquire, call us on 0333 7000 123, or contact our friendly team of experts here!