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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

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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