The Field-Proof Tagging Guide: 5 Must-Dos for Sanitation Pros

If it’s not scannable, it’s not trackable. From a “missing” toilet to a miscounted handwash station to time wasted hunting the right unit, poor tagging slows everyone down. The good news? A few smart asset tagging decisions up front save hours of field frustration later—because accuracy matters when you’re running a fast-moving fleet. Below are…

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The Field-Proof Tagging Guide: 5 Must-Dos for Sanitation Pros

The Field-Proof Tagging Guide: 5 Must-Dos for Sanitation Pros

If it’s not scannable, it’s not trackable. From a “missing” toilet to a miscounted handwash station to time wasted hunting the right unit, poor tagging slows everyone down. The good news? A few smart asset tagging decisions up front save hours of field frustration later—because accuracy matters when you’re running a fast-moving fleet.

Below are five must-dos to tag your assets once—and tag them right.


1) Choose the right installation method for your environment

How you mount a tag affects how long it lasts—especially on units that live on trucks, bake in the sun, or see frequent washing. Pick the method (adhesive, screws, rivets) that fits each use case.

What to consider

  • Will the unit see direct sun, frequent washing, or mud/grime?
  • Do you need ultra-fast install or maximum long-term security?
  • Are you tagging multiple unit types (toilets, sinks, holding tanks, roll-offs)?

Pro tip: Not all job sites are equal. What works at a tidy urban site may fail at a muddy festival. Work with partner (that’s us) who’s made thousands of asset tags for the sanitation industry. Request Quote or Consultation online.

2) Place tags for easy access—and less damage

Location matters as much as attachment.

Best practices

  • Avoid areas that collect grime, graffiti, or get pressure-washed hardest.
  • Use a consistent location across similar units so techs scan faster.

3) Mirror the way your team works and talks

Tags are only as good as the system behind them. Use naming conventions that match how your team naturally references routes, job types, or unit types.

Pro tip: Pilot with a small group of techs first to catch confusion before rolling out.

4) Build reordering into your Tagging SOP

A great system isn’t just the first install—it’s how you keep it humming.

Your SOP should include

  • When and how new units get tagged (e.g., at intake or prep)
  • A simple process for reporting/replacing missing or damaged tags
  • A threshold and owner for reordering supplies (don’t let the bin run dry)

Template: We partnered with ServiceCore to create a free Tagging SOP resource to jump-start yours.
👉 Download the Tagging SOP (ServiceCore)

5) Use systems that work together

With the right partner, you get field-proof hardware and smooth software workflows.

With Express you get

  • Durable, scan-ready labels engineered for harsh outdoor conditions
  • A dedicated U.S.-based account manager
  • Easy, on-demand reordering
  • Seamless compatibility with ServiceCore—linking scans to real-time job data

👉 Get your tags! (Express)


Choose your next step

Transforming Warehouse Identification Tracking

How IPEX Transformed 30 Warehouses with Smarter Rack Labeling When it comes to warehouse management, small inefficiencies add up quickly. For IPEX, a global leader in thermoplastic piping systems, one persistent challenge kept resurfacing: rack labels. The Challenge: Poor Adhesion, Poor Readability IPEX’s existing rack labels struggled on two fronts: With an ERP launch on…

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Transforming Warehouse Identification Tracking

Transforming Warehouse Identification Tracking

How IPEX Transformed 30 Warehouses with Smarter Rack Labeling

When it comes to warehouse management, small inefficiencies add up quickly. For IPEX, a global leader in thermoplastic piping systems, one persistent challenge kept resurfacing: rack labels.

The Challenge: Poor Adhesion, Poor Readability

IPEX’s existing rack labels struggled on two fronts:

  • Weak adhesion. Magnets wouldn’t stay put, creating constant relabeling headaches.
  • Low readability. Barcodes and text weren’t clear enough to keep up with the fast pace of warehouse operations.

With an ERP launch on the horizon and global operations to scale, IPEX knew they couldn’t afford these inefficiencies any longer. They needed a partner who could deliver labels that were professional, durable, and easy to read—and who could support a rollout across dozens of facilities.

The Solution: A True Warehouse Labeling Partner

That’s where Express Identification Products came in. With decades of experience designing and manufacturing identification solutions for complex warehouse environments, Express was ready to step in.

Express worked closely with IPEX to design and produce custom rack label samples—built to address their exact needs. These prototypes immediately impressed IPEX:

  • Superior adhesion meant the labels stayed where they belonged.
  • Crystal-clear readability boosted scan accuracy and warehouse flow.

The difference was obvious. For IPEX, this wasn’t just an improvement—it was a complete transformation.

The Results: 30 Warehouses, One Standard

Confident in the quality and scalability of Express’s solution, IPEX committed to a sweeping upgrade. The company is overhauling 30 warehouses, standardizing on Express’s rack labels and multi-rack solutions.

The payoff?

  • Greater efficiency: Workers spend less time dealing with labeling issues and more time moving product.
  • Operational consistency: A standardized labeling system across sites creates smoother processes.
  • Scalable partnership: IPEX gained a trusted partner ready to support their growth worldwide.

Looking Ahead

IPEX’s decision to partner with Express wasn’t just about better labels—it was about setting up their warehouses for long-term success. With Express’s commitment to durability, service, and U.S.-based expertise, IPEX has a reliable partner as they continue to expand and evolve.

Enhancing Asset Tracking for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

The ChallengeThe Teacher Retirement System of Texas grappled with critical issues in inventory asset tracking. Using self-printed labels, they frequently encountered issues with labels falling off or tearing, leading to inaccurate records and operational delays. A durable and reliable solution was needed to streamline their processes. The SolutionTeacher Retirement System of Texas turned to Express…

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Enhancing Asset Tracking for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

Enhancing Asset Tracking for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

The Challenge
The Teacher Retirement System of Texas grappled with critical issues in inventory asset tracking. Using self-printed labels, they frequently encountered issues with labels falling off or tearing, leading to inaccurate records and operational delays. A durable and reliable solution was needed to streamline their processes.

The Solution
Teacher Retirement System of Texas turned to Express Identification Products to improve their asset tracking system. With their unique challenges in mind, Express designed tags to ensure secure adhesion and durability for years to come.

Achieving Excellence
Express worked closely with the Teacher Retirement System of Texas to implement a solution that addressed their core concern – durability. The custom product not only adhered securely but also maintained its integrity over time. This ensured accurate inventory tracking and operational efficiency.

Results and Impact
Brian Johnson, of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, reported a remarkable improvement in the ease and efficiency of inventory management. The frustration of torn or detached labels was eliminated. Express’s commitment to quality and exceptional service left a lasting impression. Brian is committed to partner with Express for their future labeling needs.

Express Identification Products

Express Identification Products is your trusted partner and one-stop shop for custom identification solutions. With a focus on durability, quality, and custom design, we offer personalized solutions tailored to your specific needs. Partner with us to optimize your asset tracking system with enduring reliability.