Are RFID Security Seals Finally Affordable?

The short answer? Yes – and here's why.

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology has been around for decades, but it’s only in recent years that RFID Security Seals have become a cost-effective and practical option for businesses. With advancements in technology and a wider range of options now available, RFID Security Seals are more accessible and affordable than ever before.

But before we get too far ahead, let’s start with the basics.

Why Use RFID Security Seals?

• Improved Security: RFID seals offer tamper-evident features, with monitoring and alert options.
  
  
• Better Accountability: They help build a robust audit trail by capturing essential data, for example when a seal is applied or removed.
  
  
• Operational Efficiency: RFID automates the tracking and verification of seals, reducing manual processes and saving time.

Understanding the Types of RFID Security Seals

There are several types of RFID seals, and understanding their differences is key to making the right choice for your business.

Active vs Passive RFID Security Seals

• Active RFID Seals: These contain a battery which could enable a longer read range and faster data transmission. However, the battery limits their lifespan.
  
  
• Passive RFID Seals: These draw power from the RFID reader itself, which eliminates the need for a battery. They are significantly cheaper.     

Most businesses today choose passive RFID security seals, and for good reason. Not only are they more cost-effective, but there’s a far greater variety of passive models available compared to active ones. This highlights just how widely adopted passive technology has become across industries.

RFID Chip Functionality

The type of RFID chip used in a security seal plays a big role in both price and capability. Here are the main types:

• Static State: The seal’s RFID data remains the same throughout its lifecycle. If a seal is replaced with a counterfeit version, the system will detect a mismatch between the visual serial number and the RFID data.
  
  
• Single State: Data can only be read once, and the seal becomes unreadable once it has been broken.
  
  
• Two-State: The system can detect whether a seal is still locked or has been cut.
  
  
• Multi-State: Offers detailed feedback through every stage – “Open”, “Locked”, and “Tampered”. This provides a more comprehensive security profile.

Physical Form Factors

RFID security seals come in different models to suit various applications. The choice of form factor impacts both functionality and cost: 

• Bolt Seals – removal via bolt cutters.
  
  
• Cable Seals – removal via cable cutters.
  
  
• Plastic Seals – removal via scissors.

Practical Considerations When Choosing RFID Security Seals

Here’s what else you need to consider when selecting the right RFID seal for your business:

• Application Fit: What are you securing, and under what conditions?
  
  
• Physical Strength: Does the seal need to resist force or harsh handling?
  
  
• Read Range: How far away your reader will be.
  
  
• Environmental Resistance: Consider dust, water, and temperature extremes.
  
  
• Durability: Some seals offer up to 10 years of data retention.

Mobile vs Fixed RFID Readers

Whether you're scanning on the go or using fixed readers at checkpoints, it's crucial to match your seal choice with the right reading equipment.

Questions RFID Security Seals Can Help Answer

An RFID system can deliver insights such as:

• Did a specific shipment arrive sealed?
  
  
• Which vehicle had the highest number of unsealed deliveries?
  
  
• Which location is seeing the most seal breaches?

If your system can answer those questions, the return on investment (ROI) for many business would be positive.

Enhanced Data Capture

With the right RFID application setup you can automatically collect:

• Location data
  
  
• Vehicle ID
  
  
• Shipment number
  
  
• Photographic proof of sealing

You can also integrate data binding by priority,  meaning information is linked to the sealing event and tracked through the logistics chain.

Reporting & Compliance

Modern RFID solutions support custom reporting requirements, helping you stay compliant and improve internal accountability without the admin burden.

So, Are RFID Security Seals Affordable Now?

Absolutely. With the wide variety of physical seal types, chip capabilities, and reader options available today – not to mention the significant security and efficiency gains – RFID seals offer more value for money than ever before.

If you're looking for a partner to guide you through the selection and implementation process, Harcor is ideally placed. With extensive experience and a broad range of RFID security seal solutions, we’ll help you find the right fit for your operations, one that delivers measurable benefits and peace of mind.