As workplaces get busier and security expectations continue to rise, more organisations are realising just how valuable in-house ID card printing really is. Instead of waiting days for an external provider, you can print a staff card in minutes ideal for quick onboarding and those inevitable contractor arrivals. You also gain far greater control over access, reducing the risks that pop up when identification issues take too long to resolve. And with outsourcing costs creeping higher each year, bringing card production in-house isn’t just convenient, it’s a smart, budget-friendly upgrade that helps your team work faster, safer, and with far less hassle.
Why More Organisations Are Switching to In-House ID Card Printing
Outsourcing ID cards used to be the norm, but for many workplaces it’s now more of a hassle than a help. Long turnaround times, shipping delays, and order requirements can slow your team down at the worst possible moment. And if your workforce shifts often and staff changes you simply can’t wait days for a replacement card.
In-house printing solves all of that in one neat move. You gain control, speed, and consistency without relying on an external provider. No wonder more organisations are making the switch a little independence goes a long way!
Faster Employee Onboarding With Instant Card Issuance
When onboarding is already full of moving parts, the last thing you need is a delay caused by an ID card that hasn’t arrived. With an in-house printer, you can produce a card the moment someone walks through the door. It’s a huge advantage for managers juggling workforce additions.
Instead of handing out temporary passes or waiting on a courier, you can issue a proper card in minutes complete with photo, access level, and branding. It keeps your onboarding process tidy and ensures every team member starts on the right foot.
Greater Security Through Full Control
Security gets tricky when you’re relying on someone else to print your cards. Lost or stolen IDs can linger in circulation longer than they should, and outdated cards may still be used simply because replacements take too long. In-house printing puts you firmly back in the driver’s seat.
You can deactivate old cards immediately and issue new ones on the spot with no downtime, no guessing, and no unnecessary risks. And because you control every stage of the process, you always know exactly who has access and when.
Significant Cost Savings Over Outsourcing
Outsourcing often looks cheaper at first until the invoices start rolling in. Per-card fees, rush fees, artwork changes, and shipping costs add up quickly, especially if your organisation prints regularly. In-house printing flips the equation by turning ID cards into a predictable, low-cost part of your operations.
After the initial equipment investment, ongoing expenses are minimal: ribbons, cleaning kits, and blank cards. You can print one card or one hundred without paying extra, which is a huge win for growing teams. A small shift, big savings, what’s not to love?
Improved Professionalism and Consistent Branding
Nothing elevates your workplace like clean, consistent, professional ID cards. When you outsource, colours can vary from batch to batch, photos may look washed out, and branding inconsistencies sneak in over time. In-house printing lets you fine-tune everything from logos, colours, layouts, and overall quality.
Want to refresh your design? Easy. Need to reprint a photo that didn’t quite land? Done in minutes. It gives your organisation a polished, reliable look that staff and visitors instantly recognise.
Greater Flexibility for Growing Organisations
As teams expand or shift, your ID card needs will evolve too and in-house systems make adapting incredibly simple. You can print cards for full-time staff, contractors, students, or visitors without waiting for an external provider to catch up.
Need different access levels, colours, or security features? Just adjust your template and print. Whether your organisation grows slowly or in big waves, having your own printer keeps everything smooth, quick, and scalable.
What You Need to Get Started With In-House ID Card Printing
Getting set up is far easier than most people expect. All you need is an ID card printer, basic design software, and a supply of blank cards and ribbons. Many workplaces also keep a cleaning kit on hand to give the printer a little TLC every now and then this helps maintain print quality and extends the machine’s life.
From there, it’s simply a matter of choosing your templates, adding your branding, and printing as needed. A quick setup and you’re ready to go!
Choose the Right In-House ID Card Solution
Not all printers are built the same, so it’s worth choosing a model that matches your print volume, card durability requirements, and budget. Some businesses use direct-to-card printers for everyday needs, while others prefer retransfer printers for high durability or smart-card encoding.
If you’re unsure where to start, Identity People is a trusted partner that can help you compare options and find the best long-term fit for your organisation. A little guidance upfront saves you plenty of trial and error later on!
Stronger Security Starts With In-House Printing
Switching to in-house ID card printing is a small change that delivers big advantages. With instant printing and easy updates, you’re no longer tied to outsourcing delays or rising fees. If you’re looking for a smoother, safer, more efficient setup, moving your ID card production in-house is a smart upgrade your whole team will feel immediately.
