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Asset Tags and Labels: A Smart Way to Track and Manage Equipment

Posted by Clarion Safety Systems | 27th Jun 2025

Clarion Safety Systems
June 27, 2025

Asset Tags and Labels: A Smart Way to Track and Manage Equipment

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
Custom Variable Data Label
Custom UID Label
Custom Metalphoto® Nameplate
Custom MIL-SPEC Nameplate

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


The environment in which your labels are applied should guide your material choice. Common materials include:

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


Incorporating asset tags into your operations can bring long-term ROI and operational improvements:

  • 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


Asset tags are no longer just about inventory—they’re about safety, accountability, and efficiency. With smarter designs and digital integration, you can future-proof your equipment tracking and streamline your operations. Whether you're upgrading an existing asset management system or building one from scratch, Clarion Safety has the tools and expertise to help.
Custom Bilingual Warning Label - Symbol and Text
Custom QR Code Label - Warning
Custom Warning Label - Text Only
Custom Warning Label - Symbol and Text
Online Quote Request Options

Need a quote for our sign, label and tag products? Our customer service team is standing by to hear from you via phone, online chat or email! For your convenience, we also have two options you can use to submit your request quickly and easily online:

Option 1: Cart-to-quote Tool

Generate a quote for all of the items in your shopping cart. Simply add items to your online shopping cart and then click the "Get Quote for Cart Items" button in the cart preview dropdown or at the bottom of the cart page.

This option works great for both standard and custom products that are available for purchase on our website.


Option 2: Quote Request Form

Request a quote by typing in the product part number(s) or a description of the custom part(s). You can also upload RFQ-related documentation, such as a drawings and specification sheets.

This option works great for products not available for purchase on our website and for complex quotes.

Fill out the form below to learn more about ANSI Z535.7!
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