Cheap, Easy To Use RFID tags that are DoD compliant? No, you're not dreaming!

The Quest For Cheap, DoD compliant RFID 

Questing after DoD compliant RFID tags that meet the demands of a Department of Defense contract, work dependably, and don't break the bank can become a nearly impossible journey. How can one balance the old aphorism "You get what you pay for" against the looming reality of tightening budgets in the face of a rocky economy? Turns out, it's easier than you might think it is. Follow our tips for determining the types of tags you need, and whether or not you want to buy pre-printed tags or print your own, and in no time you'll be set to get the tags you need to ship to the Department of Defense. 

The Basics of the DoD RFID Mandate

The requirement comes from master solicitation under FARS 252.211-2006. Scary link, but a simple requirement. A rule of thumb is: if you can slap an RFID tag onto it, it needs one in order to be shipped to the Department of Defense. The information required on the tags include the CAGE code, case or pallet type, and a serial number. The DoD requires no other information on the tags that are attached to shipments. 

It's important to make sure the tags are attached to the upright, vertical surface of your shipment. The DoD warehouses have RFID readers attached to the sides of their entrances, so that's how your shipments' tags will be read. The actual requirement is the upper right corner of the shipment, but at the very least attach the tag to the side to ensure that it will be read at all. 

See our earlier post about the DoD RFID mandate for more information. 

Two Options for RFID Tags

Deciding between printing your own tags and buying pre-programmed tags can be as simply as following the 1-2-3 steps below!

1. Decide how many RFID tags you'll need: It's important to know just how many items you plan on shipping to the DoD.  Knowing that can help you determine whether it makes more sense for your company and your budget to order pre-printed and pre-programmed RFID tags or to invest in a printer. 


2. Calculate money AND time you wish to spend: While a printer can be initially expensive, once set up, all that you need to pay for are rolls of ribbon, which can be much cheaper than pre-programmed tags. Keep in mind, however, that the time commitment required to learn how to operate the printer and software should be considered. Ordering pre-programmed tags can save you money and effort that might be better spent on other things. 


3. Shop around for your best options:  Once you've decided whether you need pre-programmed tags, a printer set up, or still need help, it's time to find the right distributor. While there are any number of RFID tag providers on the market, none can meet your needs as comprehensively as SimplyRFiD. Read on to find out more...

Why SimplyRFiD?

Ready to start shopping for DoD compliant tags? Start by checking out the prices for our pre-programmed RFID tags. The more tags you order, the cheaper they become. 

• 1-499 tags cost $.99 each.


• 500-999 tags cost $.85 each.


• 1000+ tags cost $.81 each. 

Even if you need tags ASAP, this option could be for you. As long as the order is confirmed during the business week by noon EST, the order is shipped the same day. If you miss the noon deadline, we can still program and ship tags up until 6 pm the same day, with an addition courier fee. 

If you're considering the option of buying your own printer and printing your own tags, check out our complete DoD RFID printer solution. It includes everything you need to start printing your own tags, including a desktop printer, ribbon, and our own DoD compliant RFID creation software system. 

 If you're still not sure whether the pre-programmed tags or the in-house printer option is the best for your operation, contact our DoD shipping support team with your questions and concerns. No one is better equipped to get you the answers you need fast. 

But don't just take my word for it... visit the SimplyRFiD website and learn about pre-programmed tags, the On-Demand RFID printing system and more. For even more information, call SimplyRFiD at 1 800 909 5524.

Ashley Lange is the public relations assistant for Simply RFiD.