It may seem like a good time-saving move, but slot punching your cards (to display them with lanyards or badge reels) before you print them can damage the printer and cost you hundreds in repairs!
Why You Should Only Slot Punch After Printing
When your ID card printer prints your design on a blank card, it runs a heated ceramic printhead over the card to apply the ribbons and films. A printer printhead is very delicate, as required to print detailed cards. When there is a rough edge or uneven surface, like a slot punch, you can tear the printer ribbons or damage the printhead.
Damaged printheads are not always covered by your printer’s manufacturer warranty, and replacement printheads can cost hundreds of dollars. Save yourself the time and cost of printer repairs and wait to slot punch your cards until after they are printed.
Get more tips on caring for your blank ID cards with our Card Stock Care Guide (PDF).