Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you ask.
What’s the minimum order for event credentials?
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Our minimum order is 10 credentials. Most event orders fall in the 250–5,000 range, but we handle events of all sizes, from small VIP lists to multi-day festivals with tens of thousands of attendees. Unit pricing improves significantly at 100, 500, 1,000, 2,500, and 5,000+ tiers. See the pricing grid above.
What’s the turnaround time?
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Standard production is 5–7 business days from final artwork approval. After production we ship via FedEx Home Delivery (most cost-effective) which typically adds 2–5 business days depending on destination. For variable data orders (names, photos, barcodes), allow an additional 1–2 days for data merge and verification. Rush production (2–3 business days) and expedited shipping options are both available. Tell us your event date and we'll build a timeline that works.
Can you print different information on each credential?
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Absolutely. Our variable data printing handles names, titles, companies, individual photos, unique QR codes, barcodes, and sequential numbering. Send us your data in a CSV or Excel spreadsheet and we'll merge it into your approved design. Every credential is verified for accuracy before shipping.
How does NFC work with credentials?
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We embed a TapTags™ NFC chip directly into the credential during production (13.56 MHz, ISO 14443 compatible). Each chip is encoded with a unique ID matched to your event's registration, access control, or lead-retrieval platform. Attendees just tap the credential against any NFC-enabled smartphone or reader (no app required for basic functions). Common use cases include tap-in access to restricted zones, cashless transactions, exhibitor lead retrieval, session tracking, and tap-to-launch event apps or profiles. If you already have a scanning platform, share the specs with us and we'll verify chip compatibility before production.
Can I use my own artwork, or do you offer design help?
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Both. Send us your artwork files (AI, EPS, PDF, PSD, or high-res PNG/JPG) and we'll create a proof. We also accept Canva exports. Just follow our Canva setup guide (see the Canva FAQ below) so your canvas includes bleed and safety margins. If you need design help, our team can create custom credential designs using your logos, brand colors, and event branding. We provide downloadable die templates for every shape so your designer can work to exact specifications.
What about lanyards and badge holders?
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We offer a full range of custom lanyards (dye-sub polyester, woven, nylon, reflective), badge holders, plastic loops, and carabiners to pair with your credentials. Most credential shapes include a slot or hole punch for lanyard or loop attachment. Accessories are always priced separately from the credentials themselves, but we'll quote them together as a complete package so you see one total.
See our lanyard options →
How do I choose the right credential size?
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It depends on how much information your credential needs to carry. Credit card size works for simple name badges. Medium (3×4″) is the industry standard for conferences. Large (3×5″ to 3.25×5.5″) is best for multi-zone events needing access levels, photos, and codes. XL (4×5″ to 4×6″) is for backstage passes and credentials that double as event programs. Check our Credential Design Guide above for detailed recommendations.
What anti-counterfeit options are available?
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We offer multiple layers: holographic overlays, UV-reactive inks (visible only under black light), metallic foil stamping, embedded NFC/RFID chips, unique QR codes, and custom die shapes. For high-security events, we recommend combining 2–3 features. Our team can advise on the best security stack for your specific event and threat profile.
I designed my credential in Canva. Will that work?
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Yes, we accept Canva exports, but Canva has one big gotcha: it doesn't add bleed automatically. If you build a 3×4″ canvas for a 3×4″ tag, your artwork will have no bleed and the edges can print inconsistently. Set your Canva canvas size to include 0.125″ of bleed on every side (so a 3×4″ tag becomes a 3.25×4.25″ canvas) and keep all text and logos at least 0.125″ inside the trim line (the "safety area"). Export as PDF for Print. If you're unsure, send us what you have. Our team can review and flag any issues before production.
Can you do a rush order?
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Yes. Rush production can deliver in 2–3 business days from final artwork approval (vs. our standard 5–7). We can also pair that with expedited shipping (FedEx 2-Day, Overnight, or Priority Overnight) to hit tight event deadlines. Rush pricing depends on quantity, features (foil, RFID, variable data), and how fast you need it. Send us your event date and order size and we'll come back with options.
Can I reorder a design from a previous event?
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Absolutely. Reorders are one of the easiest things we do. We keep your approved artwork and specs on file, so a repeat run (same design, same size, same finish) usually skips the proofing round entirely and goes straight to production. Just reference your previous order or event name in your email and let us know the quantity. If you want to tweak anything (new dates, sponsor logo swap, different finish), we'll send a fresh proof for approval first.
My team count keeps changing. When do I need to lock in the final quantity?
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We understand. Team registrations, attendee lists, and staff counts shift right up until the event. The final quantity (and any variable data) needs to be locked in when you approve the final proof, since that's when production starts. The latest you can lock in depends on your in-hand date: count back 5–7 business days for standard production (or 2–3 for rush), plus your shipping transit time. If you expect numbers to move, tell us your worst-case estimated quantity early so we can reserve production capacity.