Ink-based anti-theft tags help prevent loss in clothing, shoe, and handbag stores. Each tag contains a sealed ink capsule that, once ruptured, permanently stains and ruins the merchandise. However, tags often burst accidentally—usually from improper handling during warehousing, labeling, or shipping. This article covers key precautions to help you avoid costly damage.
一、Don’ts for the Labeling Process
1.Squeeze and twist the label firmly
The plastic label casing holds the ink cartridge. Pressing or twisting the label during application compresses and breaks the glass cartridge. To apply, just secure the label with the pin—do not squeeze the casing.
2.Incorrect Pin Hole Locations
Avoid punching holes in thin or stretchy fabrics like silk, knits, or spandex—doing so can deform the tag and crush the ink cartridge. Instead, attach the tag to the garment’s hangtag loop or a reinforced seam.
3.The label is firmly attached to a hard, rigid object
After attaching the tag, keep it flat against metal zippers, buttons, or stiff interlinings. Stacked and compressed products can press hard objects against the casing; prolonged pressure may rupture the ink cartridge.
二、Storage and Transportation Don’ts (Common Causes of Accidental Explosions)
1.Stacked Under Heavy Pressure
When packing or stacking items in the warehouse, keep heavy objects off items with ink tags—stack pressure can travel to the ink reservoir and cause silent leaks, the most common storage issue. For tagged items, face the tags outward to avoid pressure.
2.Storage in High- and Low-Temperature Environments
Ink cartridges react to temperature. High heat, direct sunlight, or stuffy warehouses can expand the liquid and burst the cartridge; freezing conditions can make the casing brittle and shatter on impact. Avoid leaving tags in sunlit vehicles or sealed shipping containers for long periods.
3.Rough handling, drops, and impacts
Items often drop or get tossed during sorting, subjecting the tags to harsh impacts that shatter the internal ink cartridges. Even if the plastic casing looks intact, the interior may already be damaged, and ink will slowly seep out over time.
三、Do’s and Don’ts for Cash Register Disassembly
1.Using an incompatible lock pick with insufficient magnetic force
If the detacher’s magnetic force is weak, do not pull or pry the tag. Forcing it before the lock cylinder fully releases can snap the pins and crush the cartridge, causing instant leakage. Check the detacher’s magnetism before each use.
2.Tilt and Pull Label
When removing the tag, pull it straight up—not at an angle. Diagonal force squeezes the ink capsule and causes leaks.
四、Other Easily Overlooked Taboos
1.Soaking or washing items with tags for extended periods
This item has an ink tag—do not wash it with water. Moisture seeping into the casing can corrode the cartridge and cause leaks.
五、Conclusion
Ink-based anti-theft tags deter theft effectively but demand careful handling and storage. Most accidental bursts stem not from defects, but from compression, heat, impact, or misuse. With proper training and stacking procedures, stores can greatly reduce merchandise losses.