At any live event, there are a set of pressures that must be considered. The increased footfall of new people provides additional security concerns, as well as holding events in an unknown environment and taking staff outside of their comfort zones. ID cards are a solution to many of the problems faced and can also be used as a visual marketing tool for potential new customers.  

An ID card doesn’t have to be the standard size most people expect. There are options and occasions where an extra large ID card is more relevant and suitable. For example, at a live event, whether a trade show or festival, large-format ID cards are a great way to help your event go smoothly. 

Large-format ID cards are ideal for events where the pace of the day is much faster, and there are a high number of ID cards needed for visitors and exhibitors. The benefits that come with using larger format ID cards are ideal for live events like concerts, sports events, exhibitions, trade shows and more. 

The size difference between ID cards 

The standard size of an ID card measures 86 x 55mm and is known as an industry standard as CR80. It is the size of a credit card and also most business cards. 

There is a slightly larger size known as the CR100, which measures 100 x 70mm. This is also known as an XL format, and if you need a bigger option, you can print up to 140 x 88mm - known as 2XL. 

Why a 2XL card is ideal for live events  

A large format ID card is easier to check for security – the information and photographs are larger and can be seen more quickly. In a fast-paced and high-footfall event with many new faces and contracted staff, time is of the essence. Avoiding congestion at doorways and access points is easier with a photo ID printed in a larger format than the traditional CR80 size.  

The 2XL size allows a larger print of the photograph whilst still containing the important information that is required on a visitor’s ID card, including printed visuals such as barcodes or QR codes, maps, visitor details and company and sponsor logos. The added advantage is that all this vital information is easier to read and understand. For example, at a concert or trade show, a map with directions to the customer’s seat or stand is much clearer and helps to reduce the need for additional customer service. 

Extra large format ID cards also have the advantage of creating a feeling of importance with the customer. People enjoy having a uniquely designed ID card and lanyard that can be used as a keepsake after the event. If the event has a tiered pricing guest system (such as bronze, silver and gold packages), you can provide your higher-tiered guests with a larger, branded ID card, which would help them feel important and valued, while helping to differentiate them from regular customers quickly. 

A 2XL card is also harder to copy and acts as a deterrent to forgeries. They are commonly printed on-site with a ‘live’ photograph taken, and because of this, the card printer can add additional random security features to the card. The added space on the card can include more security information that a potential forger will be unaware of or unable to replicate. 

Create the perfect large-format ID card   

Printing an extra-large ID card requires a large format card printer, as not all ID card printers have the size capacity to handle different-sized cards.  

We offer a range of large-format printers, depending on your requirements. 

A level of preparation is essential when choosing 2XL cards. Most of the information required on the card can be created and printed before your event. Data such as maps, logos and brand colour schemes can be prepared and printed before your event, leaving the white space on your card to be printed with the relevant visitor information (barcodes, photos) either on the day or closer to the time of the event.  

Plastic-ID offers a printing service for your 2XL cards. Contact our team here for more information. 

Due to the size of the large format card, standard cardholders are incompatible, but you can still add an extra layer of protection to your 2XL printed ID cards with an extra-large badge holder.  

These plastic card holders are perfectly designed for ease of use, with the 2XL card able to slide into the plastic wallet. They are suitable for use with both beaded necklaces and lanyards. 

Lanyards offer a wealth of benefits to your ID cards. They can be colour coded and branded, serving the purpose of differentiating your customers and having them custom printed with your company’s logo. 

Lanyards have reliable clips that ensure the ID won’t accidentally fall off. They also have a ‘breakaway’ clip at the back as a security measure which separates in the event of being inadvertently caught on stationary objects.  

Large format cards aren’t limited to events – although that is where their strengths lie. They can be used in offices, universities, and plenty of other workplaces. A key advantage of a large-format ID card is that it is a tangible form of marketing and brand awareness. By having a larger image of your brand and logo, your business is represented consistently to the wearer and those who visit the business. 

For more information on how large format cards can help improve the security of your events, get in touch with a member of our expert team.