Asset Tags and Labels: A Smart Way to Track and Manage Equipment
Posted by Clarion Safety Systems | 27th Jun 2025
Improve Efficiency, Accuracy, and Accountability with Customized Asset Labels Designed for Industrial Environments
Whether you're managing manufacturing equipment, tools, IT hardware, or rental inventory, asset tags and labels play a critical role in tracking and protecting your physical assets. These labels help ensure visibility, streamline operations, and support regulatory compliance. With today’s advanced printing and data technologies, asset tagging has evolved beyond basic barcodes to include QR codes, serialized data, and tamper-evident designs—making it easier than ever to manage resources across your facility or supply chain.
What Are Asset Tags and Why Use Them?
Asset tags are specialized labels affixed to physical items to identify and track their location, status, maintenance history, or ownership. Used across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, utilities, and healthcare, asset tags help companies:
- Maintain inventory consistency
- Track asset movement and maintenance
- Prevent theft and unauthorized transfers
- Meet compliance or audit requirements
- Reduce manual recordkeeping errors
These tags are available in a range of materials and data formats to suit indoor, outdoor, high-heat, and high-wear environments.
Types of Asset Labels for Equipment Tracking
QR Codes
QR code labels offer a fast and convenient way to link assets to digital systems—no scanner required. A smartphone is all you need to:
- Access manuals or instructional videos
- Log maintenance or inspection activities
- Record check-in/check-out for tools or equipment
- Verify asset locations in real-time
QR codes can be customized to include up to 50 characters and are compatible with most asset tracking software platforms.
Barcode Labels
Barcodes remain a standard in inventory control, offering a fast way to scan and retrieve product data. Depending on the complexity of your asset tracking needs, you may choose from:
UPC/ EAN – Universal retail codes
MSI / Pharmacode – Specialty or pharmaceutical use cases
ITF-14– For cartons and pallets
Code 128 / Code 39 – For asset and warehouse management
Custom barcode labels can be printed to include serial numbers, part numbers, or other identifiers for internal use.
Serial Number Labels
Serialized labels provide each asset with a unique ID, which is crucial for:
Tracking maintenance or service history
Supporting crime prevention and recovery
Managing equipment under warranty
Enabling product traceability
These labels are commonly used in electronics, machinery, and appliance manufacturing.
Identification Labels
Identification labels provide key details about a product, such as:
Hazardous chemical classifications (for GHS or OSHA compliance)
Operating instructions or specs
Ownership or company information
These labels are critical for regulatory compliance and workplace safety, especially in environments with chemical handling or high-voltage equipment.
Best Materials for Durable Asset Tags
Aluminum Asset Tags
- Best for: Harsh environments, outdoor use
- Benefits: Scratch-resistant, weatherproof, ideal for industrial machinery
- Attachment options: Rivets, screws, or permanent adhesive
Foil Asset Labels
- Best for: Long-term indoor/outdoor use
- Benefits: Chemical-resistant, fade-proof, extremely durable
- Use case: Equipment ID, calibration tags, serialized tracking
Tamper-Evident Vinyl
- Best for: Security and anti-theft applications
- Benefits: Cannot be cleanly removed or transferred
- Feature: Leaves a “VOID” pattern if tampered with
- Use case: Warranty protection, authentication, access control
Additional Benefits of an Asset Labeling System
- Theft Reduction: Clearly labeled equipment is less likely to be stolen or misplaced.
- Automated Audits: Paired with asset management software, labels allow for quick audits and accurate records.
- Workforce Tracking: Employees can scan tags to confirm inspection routes, log access, or verify tasks.
Custom Label Printing from Clarion Safety
At Clarion Safety, we specialize in durable, compliant asset tags and equipment labels for demanding industrial environments. Our online custom tools make it easy to:
- Add QR codes, barcodes, or serial numbers
- Choose from rugged materials like aluminum, foil, or vinyl
- Customize your size, layout, and adhesive options
- Get fast turnaround and expert support
Custom Label Printing from Clarion Safety