What is a Blank NFC Sticker?
A blank Near Field Communication (NFC) sticker is an unprinted adhesive tag containing an NFC inlay, which includes a microchip and an antenna laminated between a color printable surface and an adhesive layer. They may also include a ferrite layer for use on metal. Blank NFC stickers are sold without graphics or branding, making them suitable for later printing, labeling, or integration. Custom NFC stickers offer broader options for size, shape, chip type, and premium printing options.
Blank NFC stickers are selected by manufacturers and service providers for on-demand printing, test deployments, or when adding a digital identifier to physical products. In these applications, the sticker acts as a proxy for an object or asset, enabling digital identification, authentication, or interaction with the item it is attached to.
How to Choose a Blank NFC Sticker
- Shape and Size: Choose the sticker size and shape to fit the target object and application. Larger stickers offer better read range due to larger antennas, while smaller sizes enable discrete placement but reduce read performance. Maximum practical antenna sizes are typically 50 mm in diameter for circles and 76 x 45 mm for rectangles. Stickers larger than these antenna dimensions will not offer improved read range, as the antenna is not proportionally larger.
- Surface Material: Choose paper if you require color inkjet printing. If you do not need printing or only need basic black printing, select white polypropylene (PP) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) for better durability and water resistance.
- Availability: GoToTags maintains inventory of standard blank NFC stickers for fast shipping. Special sizes, shapes, or chips may be available by special order with longer lead times. Bulk discounts apply.
- NFC Chip Type: NTAG213 is standard for most general applications, NTAG216 offers more data storage, ICODE SLIX is used for extended read range with compatible systems, and NTAG 424 DNA supports advanced authentication.
Customizing a Blank NFC Sticker
- Quick Printing: GoToTags provides fast black thermal transfer printing or color inkjet printing using in-stock blank stickers. These options do not include finishes or overlays. For full custom printing and advanced options, see the custom NFC stickers category.
- Encoding: GoToTags can encode data to blank NFC stickers at purchase, or customers can encode them later using the GoToTags Desktop App.
Recommendations
- Use markers on blank NFC stickers as an alternative to printing.
- Matrix on stickers with black registration marks are needed for full bleed printing by some inkjet printers.
- Evaluate environmental exposure—moisture, humidity, heat, UV—when choosing materials.
- Choose inlay options for improved durability when printing is not needed.
- Test read range and performance on actual products with your devices before full deployment.
- Always confirm chip compatibility with your devices and software.
