The Technology Behind Barcoded Gift Cards: A Quick Guide​

Barcoded plastic gift cards are more than just a card for shopping—they' re data-driven tools that bridge physical interaction and digital management. These cards embed either 1D barcodes (like Code 128, ideal for quick POS scans) or 2D QR codes (for storing richer data like URLs and customer profiles) on durable PVC surfaces. When scanned, the barcode translates into actionable information—such as card balance, transaction history, or expiry dates—by syncing with your point-of-sale (POS) system. Unlike paper alternatives, plastic carriers ensure the barcode remains scannable even after repeated use, thanks to resistance to moisture and wear of the material.

Key Advantages for Businesses & Customers

1. Enhanced Security Against Fraud

Each barcode is uniquely encoded, making duplication or tampering extremely difficult. For example, a retail chain using barcoded cards reduced gift card fraud by 40% by leveraging unique serial numbers tied to each barcode. This not only protects the revenue of the shops but also builds trust with customers who worry about lost or stolen cards.

2. Streamlined Operations & Tracking

Barcodes turn messy manual processes into seamless workflows. Retailers can instantly monitor real-time data—from remaining balances to peak redemption periods—enabling smarter inventory control and targeted promotions. A coffee client recently used barcoded gift cards to track seasonal gift card redemptions, adjusting their menu to match high-demand items and boosting repeat visits by 25%.

3. Cost-Effective & User-Friendly

Compared to RFID cards, barcoded plastic gift cards offer significant cost savings of the chips while maintaining compatibility with over 200 popular POS systems. Customers appreciate the speed too: checkout takes seconds with a simple scan, eliminating the frustration of manual code entry. This convenience directly translates to higher customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Why Choose Zhanfeng for Your Barcoded Gift Cards?

With 20 years as a leading smart card manufacturer, Zhanfeng combines technical expertise with customer-centric service to deliver cards that stand out. The following are the advantages of our company:

Industry-Leading Quality: We use high quality inks (fadeless for 10 years) and German Heidelberg printers to ensure crisp, scannable barcodes and vibrant branding . Our 25-step quality control process guarantees 99.9% percent of pass.

Full Customization: From frosted PVC to metallic finishes, and add-ons like magnetic stripes or scratch-off panels—we tailor every detail to your products and brand. Our team delivers 50 design options in 30 minutes, with 95% color accuracy.

Risk-Free Trial: Test our cards with free samples (we cover delivery!). Our 24/7 team responds in 5 minutes and ensures bulk orders ship in just 20 hours.

If you are willing to elevate your gifting strategy with barcoded plastic gift cards, you can contact Zhanfeng today to claim your free sample and start designing cards that drive sales.