In modern times, ID cards are not just identification badges; they are essential tools that ensure security, manage access control, verify identity, increase professionalism, guarantee the security of students and employees, and enhance operational efficiency.

With the rise of modern technology, the challenge of producing ID cards for large groups has become much easier to manage. Institutions handling large groups of employees or students, often in the hundreds or thousands, can now manage ID cards in a more streamlined, affordable and dependable way through Bulk ID card printing.

But when it comes to printing large quantities, three main questions arise: How much does bulk printing really cost? How much time does it take? And how can you ensure that every ID card is durable, professional & secure?

In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about bulk ID card printing.

What is Bulk ID Card Printing?

Bulk ID Card Printing refers to the printing of large numbers of cards, typically for organisations, institutions, or events. Bulk ID card printing efficiently and consistently makes all cards with the same design in less time by using specialised printers and software. 

Bulk ID card printing is widely used by organisations or groups that need to issue large numbers of cards, like educational institutions for students & staff, corporations and businesses for their employees, event organisers for attendees, volunteers & guests. 

Bulk ID card printing ensures consistency - all cards have the same design, layout, and quality, which is beneficial for branding. Also, bulk ID card printing speeds up the process. Large volumes of ID cards can be produced quickly, saving time compared to one-by-one printing.

Cost of Bulk ID Card Printing 

One of the main concerns for all buyers is the cost of ID Cards. Individual card printing is usually expensive and can affect uniformity. That is where Bulk ID card printing walks in, a cost-effective method to print large numbers of cards in less price. Various factors impact the cost of the card, which are as follows:-

Material Used

The material you choose directly impacts durability and the cost of ID Cards. There are different types of ID Card material, like PVC cards, which are plastic cards made of Polyvinyl Chloride, a thermoplastic resin used for multiple purposes. Nowadays, most of the ID Cards in schools, offices and at events are made up of PVC material as they are long-lasting, durable, attractive and environmentally friendly. The cost of PVC Cards is slightly higher, but they have a long life. On the other hand, the second most used material is laminated paper cards, which are cheaper but prone to wear and tear. This material is best for temporary usage, like in events.

Design Complexity 

The design complexity of ID Cards plays a significant role in determining the cost of bulk ID Card Printing. Full-colour designs with customised gradient logos or photos cost more due to higher ink consumption and more precise alignment. While single colour designs are cheaper, as they require simple printing processes. 

Printing Technology 

There are different types of bulk ID Card Printing, which are as follows:

Digital Printing: 

Digital ID card Printing involves modern technology machines to create personalised identification cards for businesses, schools, and offices. The Printing method varies based on quality, cost and purposes. It is most appropriate for small or medium-sized orders as this is quick, easy and effective. 

Thermal Printing: 

Thermal Printing can be used for employee badges, student identification and membership cards as it is faster and cost-effective, suitable for Bulk Printing. These cards are best for organisations looking for durable, long-lasting IDs. 

Offset Printing:

Offset Printing uses a traditional Offset press to print on large sheets of PVC before cutting them into individual cards; it is cost-effective for bulk printing, providing high-quality results, but it needs more time.

Innovative Techniques:

Innovative techniques of ID Card Printing include modern technologies to print ID cards. This printing refers to using advanced printing techniques to create cards with depth, texture, and enhanced security features. These cards are difficult to forge and visually appealing, with secure identification methods. 

Quantity Required 

Quantity is one of the main factors that will impact the cost of your cards. Every printing job has initial setup costs like design preparation, printer setup and many more, and this will be done for both small orders and bulk orders. In small orders, these costs are spread over fewer cards, which results in a higher cost per card. While in large orders, the same setup costs are spread across many cards, resulting in a lower cost per card. 

 

Time required for Bulk ID Card Printing 

In today's fast-paced world, everyone needs convenience and fast delivery of their order. So, the second main question is How much time is required for Bulk ID Card Printing? The time required for bulk ID Card printing depends on three main features:-

 

Printing Technology used

The fundamental factor which impacts time is the type of printing you choose like if you choose Direct-to-Card printing it will take less time as this printing is directly done on cards and if you choose Retransfer printing more time will be consumed as in this type of printing retransfer printers prints the image first onto clear image and that film is then heat-pressed onto the surface of the card. 

Impact of Quantity 

Quantity is a key factor in deciding how much time will be taken to complete your order. Smaller orders can usually be completed within a short turnaround, often in a few days.  As Quantity increases, however, production naturally requires more time, particularly when each card must be personalized with unique names, photos, or Security features. But a provider like IVYPrints can complete your bulk order in just a week with their modern machines and dedicated Team.

Design and Security Features 

Design impacts the time required for ID Card printing. Designing procedure is one of the crucial steps; a simple static design can be done in less time, while variable designs with personalised information and integration of modern security features like holograms, magnetic strips, RFID chips, etc. require more time. 

 

Quality of Bulk ID Card Printing 

The main and ultimate demand of every buyer is to get the best quality cards for their institution. So, another main concern is, does Bulk ID Card printing affect the quality? No, if you choose a trustworthy provider, you will get the best quality bulk ID cards at affordable prices. So to get a top-notch Quality card, you must ensure:-

 

Print Quality 

The sharpness and readability of cards will depend upon the print quality of cards, so you must look for providers who use High-Quality printers to produce sharper images, readable text and scannable codes. Also, professional printers ensure consistent colour reproduction for logos, photos and branding, which is beneficial for popularity and professionalism. 

Material Quality 

The quality of cards is dependent upon the quality of raw material, so to get the best cards, use materials like PVC that resist bending, fading and cracking. 

Durability and Protection 

To increase the longevity of all the cards, it is necessary to include a protective layer against scratches, moisture and fading. Also, you can include overlay options like holograms, watermarks, or Security films to improve both quality and security. 

Bulk Specific Production Quality 

In bulk orders, every card should have the same alignment, colour tone and layout. Go for professional vendors like IVYPrints who perform random checks to ensure no misprint, faded colour and defective chips. 

 

Choosing the Right Bulk ID Card Printing Service 

Knowing all about Bulk ID card printing, one of the main questions that arises is how you can get the best cards at affordable prices and promptly? You can get all these only when you choose a reliable provider, and IVYPrints is considered one of the top providers of Bulk ID Cards, providing services all over India. They provide an extensive range of products designed to meet the needs of various industries and purposes. IVYPrints stands out as a reliable and trusted name. Known for its superior craftsmanship, advanced technology, and exceptional customer service, they have been catering to various printing needs, ranging from ID cards, Business cards, lanyards and many more.

IVYPrints also offers a range of Tailored printing services. Whether you need business cards with your brand logo, high-quality flyers, or personalised ID cards, they work closely with clients to bring their vision to life. Their graphic design team ensures that all printed products are visually appealing and professionally crafted. They value time and ensure to provide orders within a maximum of a week, providing convenience to all buyers. 

 

Tips to optimise cost, time, and quality 

Whenever any school administrator, business owner, or event organiser is going to place an order of bulk ID cards, they must take care of the following:-

Choose a Reliable Seller

When a customer orders a bulk order, they must evaluate the provider firm’s service reputation as it provides insight into the company’s reliability, quality and customer satisfaction. Look for providers who provide all types of modern advanced ID cards, do proper research about the provider's past reviews and service and then finalise. 

Ask for a Sample kit

Every buyer must ask for a sample kit whenever they place a bulk order, as the sample kit ensures the quality, specifications, and suitability of the product. It will help you to compare and contrast the quality given by different providers and choose among them according to suitability.

Clarify your Design

Buyers must provide a clarified, customised design, which includes the logo, brand colours, tagline, and data; after that, work with the designer to create a clean and readable design and give it to the provider, which ensures that your ID cards will be designed according to your will.

Order well in Advance

One of the most significant tips for any buyer is to order ID cards promptly, as ID Cards must be received, and any type of delay affects the event, so it is necessary to give orders on time and confirm delivery timing with the provider. Also, order more cards as required, as it is necessary to avoid a shortage of cards.

Ask for a Discount

One of the main things that buyers must take care of is that they must ask for discounts, as bulk orders often come with significant discounts, making them cost-effective. By leveraging volume discounts and negotiating with vendors, you can significantly lower costs while maintaining high quality.

 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the age when bulk order was a burden is gone due to technological advancement. Bulk ID card orders have become too easy and efficient, making it easy for schools, colleges and events to get the best cards in bulk at affordable prices; bulk orders are done in less time with less spending, for which credit goes to advanced technology, efficient tools, advanced Printing solutions, and streamlined workflows.

The process of making bulk ID cards became easy due to commendable services of providers like IVYPrints, a firm that deals in ID Cards and lanyards, and ensures that every card is of top-notch quality, and the order is at your doorstep within a week.