Tree ID tags do more than label a species—they serve as powerful tools for management, research, education, and public engagement in arboretums, botanical gardens, and public parks.
At National Band & Tag, we manufacture durable aluminum tags that are trusted by professionals across the country to enhance the care and interpretation of plant collections. Our most popular styles for these applications include the Style #14ARBOR for trees and the Style #14PLANT for smaller plants and shrubs.
What Tree Tags Can Do
Inventory and Data Management Engraved with unique identifiers, tree tags link each plant to its database record—tracking planting dates, origin, health assessments, maintenance schedules, and location.
Health Monitoring Numbered tags make it easier to monitor and document changes over time. This helps staff detect and respond to issues such as disease, pests, or environmental stress.
Research and Education Tree tags support scientific studies and educational programs by providing consistent labeling and easy reference points for both professionals and the public.
Public Interpretation and Engagement Display labels go beyond scientific names—they may include family, geographic origin, or QR codes that connect visitors to online resources. This adds an interactive element to gardens and arboretums, encouraging learning and exploration.
Horticultural Tracking Tags are also used to distinguish cultivars and hybrids, aiding in conservation, propagation, and breeding efforts.
Join Us at the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference
National Band & Tag is proud to be exhibiting at the NRPA (National Recreation and Park Association) Annual Conference, September 16–17 in Orlando, FL.
Booth #1431: We’ll be showcasing our best-selling #14ARBOR Tree Tags and #14PLANT Tags, used in parks, arboretums, and gardens nationwide.
If you’re looking for custom engraved tags for your next project—whether it’s a tree inventory or an interactive plant trail—stop by our booth to see samples, get expert advice, and learn about our customization options like QR codes, numbering, and logos.
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-08-27 11:00:002025-08-26 09:59:32Smarter Plant Management with Durable Tree and Plant Tags
This month marks a major milestone—National Band & Tag is celebrating our 123rd anniversary! Since our founding on August 15, 1902, in Newport, Kentucky, our family-owned business has proudly served customers across a wide range of industries, from poultry farms and veterinarians to arborists, zoos, and industrial manufacturers.
A Look Back at Our Legacy
What started with poultry leg bands has grown into a full line of identification solutions for animals, plants, assets, and equipment. Over the years, we’ve expanded into new markets, developed custom laser etching capabilities, and embraced innovative solutions—all while keeping production right here in the USA.
With five generations of family leadership, we’ve built long-standing relationships with customers who rely on the accuracy, durability, and customization of our tags. From rabies tags and vineyard signs to power pole tags and custom asset plates, our products continue to evolve to meet the needs of today’s industries.
Innovation Through the Years
As technology advanced, so did we. In recent decades, we’ve introduced:
Laser-etched barcodes and QR codes
Digital ordering systems
Custom logos and layouts
New materials for extreme environments
Even after 123 years, we’re still looking forward—to new industries, new tag styles, and new ways to help our customers solve identification challenges.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey
We wouldn’t be here without our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and supportive community. Whether you’ve been with us for 30 years or just placed your first order, thank you for trusting National Band & Tag.
Here’s to 123 years—and many more to come!
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-08-15 08:00:002025-08-14 14:01:00Celebrating 123 Years of National Band & Tag
July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month, a reminder for pet owners and veterinary professionals alike to take proactive steps in keeping animals safe and identifiable. With millions of pets going missing every year, one small tag can make a life-changing difference—especially when it’s backed by technology.
That’s where Paw Finders comes in.
What is Paw Finders?
Paw Finders is more than just a rabies tag. It’s a dual-purpose solution that combines rabies identification with a scannable QR code that helps reunite lost pets with their owners.
Each tag is linked to an online profile that includes the pet owner’s name and phone number. If a lost pet is found, anyone with a smartphone can scan the tag and connect with the owner directly—no special scanner or vet visit needed.
For Pet Owners:
Have a Paw Finders Tag? Don’t Forget to Register It!
If your veterinarian gave you a Paw Finders rabies tag this year, take a moment to register it. It only takes a minute, but that small step could be the key to bringing your pet home safely.
Scan the QR code on the back of the tag with a smartphone.
Follow the prompts to enter your contact information.
There is a one-time registration fee of just $2.99.
Already registered? Great! But take this opportunity during National Lost Pet Prevention Month to double-check that your contact info is still up to date. If you need to update a phone number or email, just send your Tag ID number and new contact info to support@pawfinders.com.
For Veterinarians:
Help Your Clients Protect Their Pets with Paw Finders
If you’re a veterinary clinic currently ordering generic rabies tags, consider making the switch to Paw Finders for your 2026 rabies tag order. By offering these upgraded tags, you’re giving your clients peace of mind and adding extra value to their pet’s annual visit.
Paw Finders makes it easy:
Clients are also more likely to put the rabies tag on their pet’s collar.
These tags mean you’ll get less phone calls about lost pets! The tag can be scanned by the finder and the owner can be contacted directly.
Use the Vet Portal to Register Paw Finders rabies tags for your clients.
Paw Finders brings your practice into the modern tag era.
Want to learn more? Visit www.pawfinders.com or share the site with your tag supplier to explore options for next year.
Preventing Lost Pets Starts with You
This month, do your part—whether that means registering your pet’s tag, reminding a friend, or encouraging your vet to make the switch to Paw Finders. Every action brings us one step closer to fewer lost pets and more happy reunions.
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-07-16 11:00:002025-06-23 10:48:07Celebrate National Lost Pet Prevention Month with Paw Finders
July is National Park and Recreation Month, a time to recognize the vital role that parks, green spaces, and recreation areas play in enhancing our communities. At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to support park departments across the country with durable, custom tree and plant identification tags that help keep park landscapes organized, educational, and beautiful.
As a trusted supplier to arboretums, botanical gardens, and park systems, we know the importance of clear, long-lasting labels—especially in outdoor environments where tags need to withstand sun, wind, rain, and time.
Identification Solutions Designed for Parks
Our most popular styles among park professionals include:
Style #14ARBOR – A heavy-duty, UV-stable black aluminum tag designed specifically for trees. These tags can be customized with multiple lines of text, logos, or even QR codes linking to educational resources or memorial tree information. Built to last outdoors for 20+ years.
Style #14PLANT – A versatile rectangular tag for plant beds, flower gardens, and landscaped areas. Made from the same long-lasting material as the 14ARBOR, this tag is ideal for educational trails or donor recognition.
We also offer other tree and plant identification solutions such as write-on tags and plastic stakes to accommodate a wide range of park needs and budgets. Whether you’re managing a large arboretum or a small community garden, we have a tagging solution for you.
Trusted by ArbNet Accredited Arboretums
We’re proud to serve many ArbNet-accredited arboretums with tags that meet the high standards required for accreditation. Our products help support your mission of education, conservation, and public engagement by making it easy to label and showcase your living collections.
Meet Us at the NRPA Conference
National Band & Tag will be exhibiting at the 2025 National Recreation and Parks Association’s Annual Conference, Booth 1431 this September in Orlando, FL. We look forward to connecting with park directors, managers, and coordinators in person and discussing how our tags can improve your signage and plant identification efforts.
Why Park Professionals Choose National Band & Tag
Made in the USA with over 120 years of manufacturing expertise
Customizable with laser etching for a professional, easy-to-read look.
Weather-resistant materials for long-term outdoor use
Easy ordering and friendly customer service
Ready to improve your plant and tree identification? Explore our full line of Horticulture Tags and see why so many park professionals trust National Band & Tag’s products.
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-07-09 11:00:002025-06-03 13:25:51Celebrate National Park and Recreation Month with Durable Tree and Plant Tags
June is National Zoo and Aquarium Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the vital work that zoos and aquariums do to protect endangered species, educate the public, and lead global conservation efforts. At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to play a small but important role in supporting these organizations through high-quality, reliable identification solutions.
Identification Tags for Conservation
From zoos and aquariums to wildlife conservation programs, accurate animal identification is key to research and long-term care. That’s where we come in.
National Band & Tag manufactures a wide range of wildlife conservation tags. Bird Bands, Ear Tags, and Fish Tags are all used for a multitude of reasons, including but not limited to; identify individual specimens, track migratory patterns, monitor health, manage breeding programs in both wild and captive populations, study behavior and monitor growth.
Trusted by Zoos and Aquariums Nationwide
Our bird bands are used by zoos across the country for both native and exotic species. Whether it’s color-coded identification for parrots, leg bands for cranes, or small aluminum bands for finches, our tags are designed with the needs of avian experts in mind.
Aquariums turn to us for small, corrosion-resistant fish tags—helping researchers identify species in educational exhibits, breeding tanks, or tagging for release-and-monitor studies.
Why Choose National Band & Tag?
Durability – Our bands and tags are made to withstand the environments animals live in.
Customization – Tags can be customized with text, numbering, etc. to meet your research needs.
Experience – With over 120 years in business, and a long history serving the conservation community, we understand the unique requirements of zoos, aquariums, and wildlife programs.
Partnering in Conservation
Every tag we make is an opportunity to support an animal’s care and conservation. Whether you’re monitoring endangered species or managing a breeding program, National Band & Tag is here to support your mission with reliable identification products.
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-06-18 11:00:002025-06-09 09:59:33Supporting Wildlife Conservation During National Zoo and Aquarium Month
Sea turtles are some of the ocean’s most iconic and endangered creatures. In the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia (IOSEA) region, conservationists work tirelessly to protect these animals through research, habitat protection, and one crucial tool—flipper tagging.
At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to support global wildlife conservation by supplying high-quality flipper tags used by researchers and organizations across the Indian Ocean. Our tags help track, study, and protect sea turtles throughout their life cycles.
Why Tag Sea Turtles?
Flipper tagging is a simple but powerful method used by conservationists to:
Track Migration: Sea turtles often travel thousands of miles between feeding and nesting grounds. Tagging helps researchers understand these routes.
Monitor Populations: Tags allow scientists to estimate population sizes, track nesting frequency, and determine survival rates.
Support Long-Term Research: Tagging provides valuable data over time, helping inform conservation policies and protect critical habitats.
By identifying individual turtles, scientists can answer important questions about where turtles go, how long they live, and how human activity impacts their survival.
Sea Turtle Tagging in the Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean is home to several sea turtle species, including green, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles. Many countries in this region participate in the IOSEA Marine Turtle Memorandum of Understanding, a program that promotes international cooperation in sea turtle research and conservation.
On the IOSEA Flipper Tag Series database, you’ll find a long list of tag styles in use throughout the region—and many of them are from National Band & Tag. Our tags are trusted for their durability, accuracy, and reliability in harsh marine conditions.
Our Most Popular Sea Turtle Flipper Tags in the Indian Ocean
National Band & Tag is proud to have several flipper tag styles widely used in sea turtle research and conservation efforts across the Indian Ocean. These durable tags are built to withstand harsh marine environments:
Style 681IC – Made from Inconel, this corrosion-resistant tag is ideal for long-term use on smaller sea turtles. It’s one of the most commonly used tags in the region due to its durability and reliability.
Style 691IL – Also made from Inconel, this newer tag option features a longer design to accommodate more stamped data. Recommended for larger sea turtles.
Style 1005-49 – A self-piercing tag made from Monel, typically used on larger turtles. While still in use today, Inconel tags like the 681IC and 691IL are preferred for their superior resistance to corrosion and longer lifespan in marine environments.
These tags are designed to stay secure over time without causing harm to the turtles—helping researchers gather valuable information while prioritizing animal welfare.
Helping Save Sea Turtles, One Tag at a Time
At National Band & Tag, we believe in doing our part to support wildlife conservation. By providing dependable tagging solutions to marine biologists, researchers, and environmental organizations, we’re proud to play a role in protecting endangered species like sea turtles.
Whether it’s tracking a turtle’s journey across the ocean or monitoring nesting habits along tropical beaches, our tags help make this vital work possible.
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-06-11 11:00:002026-05-29 13:40:34Supporting Sea Turtle Conservation in the Indian Ocean with NB&T Flipper Tags
At National Band & Tag, we proudly partner with resellers and distributors across multiple industries — from veterinary suppliers to industrial equipment companies and beyond. Whether you’re already a valued NB&T reseller or you’re considering expanding your product offerings, we’re here to make doing business easier and more efficient for you.
One of the top ways we support our resellers is through blind shipping — a simple, cost-saving service designed to streamline your order fulfillment process.
What is Blind Shipping?
Blind shipping means that when you place an order with National Band & Tag, we can ship the product directly to your customer, without any NB&T branding on the box or packing materials. Instead of our company name, the shipment will look like it came directly from you.
How Blind Shipping Benefits Resellers
Save on Shipping Costs: No need to ship the products to yourself first, only to repackage and send them out again. With blind shipping, you avoid paying for double shipping — a major advantage when managing tight margins.
Faster Turnaround for Your Customers: Speed matters. Blind shipping lets your end user receive their order faster, helping you provide better service and boosting customer satisfaction.
Protect Your Brand: Because the box arrives without National Band & Tag’s branding, your relationship with your customer stays strong and direct. Your customer sees you as their full-service provider, without confusion about who manufactured the product.
Simplify Your Workflow: By letting NB&T handle the fulfillment, you can focus on sales, customer service, and growing your business instead of spending time repackaging and shipping.
How to Request Blind Shipping
It’s easy! When placing your order, just let our team know you would like to blind ship to your customer. We’ll take care of the rest, ensuring the shipment arrives in a plain box with no NB&T logos or information included.
Grow Your Business with NB&T
Partnering with National Band & Tag gives you access to high-quality, American-made identification products, a responsive and experienced customer service team, and value-added services like blind shipping that help you operate more efficiently.
If you’re not already an NB&T reseller, we invite you to learn more about our program here.
Ready to add blind shipping to your next order? Contact us today to get started!
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-05-28 11:00:002025-05-21 10:35:50How National Band & Tag’s Blind Shipping Saves Resellers Time and Money
As graduation approaches, you might be wondering, “What’s next?” If college isn’t in your plans, that doesn’t mean your future isn’t bright. At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to offer hands-on careers right here in Newport, KY. Whether you’re a recent high school grad or someone looking for a new career path, our family-owned company provides stable jobs with multiple benefits,.
We sat down with Mandy, our HR Manager, to answer some common questions about working at National Band & Tag and why it’s a great choice for local high school graduates.
If you’re looking for a stable job with great benefits, hands-on training, and a supportive team, National Band & Tag could be the perfect place to start your career. Check out our openings today and take the first step toward your future! www.nationalband.com/careers
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-05-14 11:00:002025-05-14 13:33:51Considering Your Future? Start a Career at National Band & Tag!
Arbor Day is a time to celebrate the importance of trees in our lives, communities, and ecosystems. Whether you’re planting a single tree in your backyard or working on a large-scale arboretum project, every tree has a story—and National Band & Tag is here to help you tell it.
Why Tree Labeling Matters
Trees are often part of the backdrop of our lives—beautiful, but frequently overlooked. Labeling trees with identification tags brings attention to their significance and invites people to learn more. When someone sees a tag, they’re more likely to stop, read, and connect with the tree.
Our tree tags and arboretum tags make it easy to share key information, such as the tree’s species, origin, planting date, or donor name. This type of labeling helps:
Educate the public about different tree species
Promote environmental awareness
Support school, park, and botanical garden programs
Encourage community engagement with nature
Arbor Day Across the U.S.
Arbor Day is observed on different dates across the country, depending on the best tree planting times in each state. While many states celebrate in April or May during peak planting season. No matter when your community celebrates, the purpose remains the same—to recognize the value of trees and encourage planting for a greener future.
Long-Lasting Tree Tags with Custom QR Codes, Text, and Logos
Our UV Stable Black Aluminum tree tags are built to last in outdoor environments for 20+ years, making them a reliable choice for long-term tree identification and memorials. These tags withstand harsh weather without fading, rusting, or corroding. Customize each tag with multiple lines of text, your organization’s logo, and even a QR code that links to a webpage for more information about the tree—perfect for educational trails, arboretums, and historical landmarks. Click here to view our different Tree Tag styles.
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-04-23 11:00:002025-04-15 11:40:01Celebrate Arbor Day with Tree Tags That Tell a Story
When it comes to efficiently tracking and managing assets, businesses need easy-to-use identification solutions. National Band & Tag’s Vinyl Snap-Off Tags offer a practical and cost-effective way to label and organize equipment, tools, inventory, and more.
What Are Vinyl Snap-Off Tags?
Our Vinyl Snap-Off Tags are made from durable vinyl, making them ideal for indoor and outdoor applications. These tags come on a perforated strip allowing tags to be quickly snapped off the strip of tags as needed. These tags can be laser etched with a barcode and human readable number or be blank.
Why Choose Vinyl Snap-Off Tags?
Customizable: Available in 4 different colors for color coordination of different assets.
Efficient Tracking: The snap-off portion enables quick application, and a barcodes helps with data collection and record-keeping.
Flexible Formats: Available in sheets of 10 or on a continuous roll to fit your workflow.
Versatile Applications: Used across various industries, including manufacturing, utilities, and warehouse management.
Case Study
A great example of these tags in action is a customer in the sporting apparel industry needed a tag to track inventory from their warehouse to their retail stores all across the country. They needed something heavy duty to stand up to harsh conditions, but still flexible, and that could easily be attached or removed. This customer also wanted to go paperless, so they needed a barcode to scan.
The solution that NB&T came up with for this company was to use our Vinyl Snap Off Tags (Style 144V). These tags are made of vinyl, so they are sturdier than a paper label, but are thin and flexible enough that the customer can staple them to wood pallets. They are also laser etched with a linear bar code, so when scanned, it shows how much inventory should be on that wood pallet, along with which retail store location it is being shipped to. The pallet is scanned at the warehouse and then scanned again at the store to make sure no inventory was lost in transit.
Order Your Vinyl Snap-Off Tags Online
National Band & Tag is your trusted partner for high-quality, durable identification tags. Our Vinyl Snap-Off Tags provide a reliable way to improve asset tracking and efficiency in your business.
Now available to purchase through our online store! Choose from:
National Band & Tag is proud to be exhibiting at the 2025 Spring PIE & Technical Summit, hosted by the Association of Wire Rope Fabricators (AWRF)! Join us April 6–8, 2025, at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel in Denver, Colorado, and visit us at Booth #408 to see our wire rope and chain sling identification solutions in person.
As a trusted tag manufacturer and AWRF member of 10 years, we’re excited to showcase our most popular products for the rigging and lifting industry, including:
Style 14C – Chain Sling Tags: Heavy-duty tags designed to meet OSHA and ASME B30.9 requirements for chain sling identification. Custom stamped with your capacity, serial numbers, inspection data, and more.
Style 14WR – Wire Rope Tags: Ideal for identifying wire rope slings, these tags can be custom stamped with or without a serial number in a single leg or multi-leg format.
Quick Ship Options: Need tags fast? Ask about our Quick Ship Tags, perfect for job sites and field inspectors who need blank or pre-stamped tags on short notice.
Why Tagging Matters: Proper identification is essential for safety, traceability, and compliance in lifting applications. Our tags help ensure your rigging equipment meets industry standards while withstanding the toughest conditions. Meet OSHA’s requirement for wire ropes and chain slings to have an identification marker.
Let’s Connect in Denver! If you’re attending the 2025 AWRF Spring PIE & Technical Summit, don’t miss Booth #408. Come see our products in person and discuss how we can support your rigging identification needs.
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-04-02 11:00:002025-04-04 08:28:19Celebrating 10 Years with AWRF – Visit Us at the 2025 Spring PIE & Technical Summit
National Poultry Day is the perfect time to recognize the tools that help poultry owners, breeders, and farmers efficiently identify their birds. At National Band & Tag, we offer a wide selection of poultry identification bands, but two of the most popular options are wing bandsandleg bands.
Each style has its advantages, and the choice often comes down to personal preference, poultry type, and identification needs. Which option do you prefer?
Wing Bands: Long-Lasting Identification
Wing bands are a permanent, tamper-resistant option applied to the wing webbing of young birds. These bands are designed to stay in place for the bird’s entire life, making them ideal for breeding programs, commercial farms, and game birds.
Popular Wing Bands
Style 890 – National Band & Tag’s most popular wing band. This poultry wing band is pre-formed with a strong tamper-resistant seal when sealed with our applicator.
Style 892 – Has a pre-formed with a drawn tube to create a tamper-resistant seal when sealed with our applicator.
Leg Bands: Flexible and Color-Coded Identification
Leg bands are a versatile and easy-to-apply option for poultry identification. They are available in a variety of sizes and materials, making them a great fit for everything from backyard chickens to commercial flocks.
Popular Leg Bands
Style 305 – An aluminum leg band that snaps securely in place. Available in multiple colors, making it easy to categorize birds by age, breed, or other identifying factors.
Style 1242 – An aluminum leg band that is custom-stamped for permanent identification. This style is ideal for breeders and farmers looking for a durable options.
Which Identification Method Do You Prefer?
Some poultry owners prefer the permanence of wing bands, while others like the versatility of leg bands. Either way, both options provide reliable identification to help keep flocks organized and well-managed.
Which do you use—wing bands or leg bands? Let us know in the comments!
Explore our full selection of poultry bands here:Poultry Bands
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-03-19 11:00:002025-03-18 09:39:38National Poultry Day: Wing Bands or Leg Bands—Which Do You Prefer?
Union Pacific Railroad, a leading transportation company in North America, relies on a vast network of railways, locomotives, and infrastructure to keep goods moving across the country. With thousands of assets spread across their system, efficient tracking and identification are critical. Years ago, when Union Pacific transitioned to an SAP software system, they faced a challenge: standardizing their asset tags across multiple engineering firms responsible for maintaining and ordering tags for their equipment. Without a unified tagging system, inconsistencies in tag design, formatting, and data could create confusion, slow down operations, and impact efficiency.
The Solution
Union Pacific turned to National Band & Tag to develop a streamlined asset tagging solution that would integrate seamlessly into their new system. Our team worked closely with Union Pacific to create a customized ordering template that ensures every tag meets their specific requirements, regardless of which engineering company places the order.
Key Features of the Solution:
Standardized Tag Design – A consistent look and format for all Union Pacific tags, reducing errors and improving readability.
Easy-to-Use Ordering Template – Engineering companies can quickly and accurately order tags using a pre-set template designed to match Union Pacific’s specifications.
Durable and Long-Lasting Materials – High-quality metal tags built to withstand the harsh conditions of railroad environments.
Seamless SAP Integration – The tags and ordering process were designed to align with Union Pacific’s SAP system for better asset management.
Since implementing this standardized tagging system, Union Pacific’s asset management has become more efficient. Even though Union Pacific no longer orders tags directly, their engineering firms can seamlessly place orders while ensuring uniformity across all tags. This solution has helped:
✔ Maintain a consistent appearance across all asset tags. ✔ Improve traceability and organization of railroad assets. ✔ Reduce errors and confusion caused by inconsistent tag designs. ✔ Streamline the ordering process for engineering firms.
Union Pacific’s success story demonstrates how a well-designed tagging system can simplify operations and improve efficiency. National Band & Tag takes pride in creating customized solutions that help businesses, large and small, manage their assets effectively.
If your company is looking for a durable and standardized tagging solution, contact us today to see how we can help!
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-03-05 11:00:002026-06-01 08:58:36Case Study: How National Band & Tag Helped Union Pacific Railroad Streamline Their Asset Tagging System
Screen printing, also known as silk screening, is a technique used to apply designs onto various surfaces, including aluminum. This method involves creating a stencil (or screen) and using it to apply layers of ink on the metal surface. It’s widely used for producing metal tags, nameplates, and labels with detailed graphics. The printed ink sits atop the metal surface, which can be susceptible to wear, scratching, and fading over time, especially in harsh environments. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors to fade, making it less suitable for outdoor applications without additional protective measures. The initial setup for screen printing can be time-consuming and may incur higher costs, particularly for small batches.
National Band & Tag’s Alternative: Inverted Logos on Black UV Stable Aluminum
At National Band & Tag, we offer an alternative to traditional screen printing by utilizing inverted logos on black UV stable aluminum. This process involves laser etching the black top away, leaving just the text or logo behind in black. What is laser etched away is now silver.
Laser etching creates a permanent mark that is resistant to wear, scratching, and fading, ensuring longevity even in demanding environments. The UV stable anodized aluminum is designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight and harsh weather conditions without degrading. The contrast between the black surface and the silver etched design results in clear and easily readable tags, suitable for various applications. Laser etching eliminates the need for inks and chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to screen printing.
By choosing this method, you can achieve the classic black text on a silver background aesthetic, with the added benefits of durability and resistance to environmental factors.
LEFT: Inverted Logo on Black UV Stable Aluminum. RIGHT: Screen Printed on Aluminum
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-02-19 11:00:002025-02-19 09:49:45Screen Printing on Aluminum VS Inverted Text & Logos on Black UV Stable Aluminum
Succession planning is a challenge that many family businesses face when passing the business down through multiple generations. At National Band & Tag, a proud family-run business, we know firsthand the complexities of balancing family dynamics with strategic decision-making for the future. With 11 family members on our management team in the 4th and 5th generations, we’ve learned that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to ensuring a smooth transition.
To shed light on this important topic, we polled some of our family management team to share their #1 tip for planning a successful succession. Their insights reflect not only the values that have helped sustain our company for generations but also the lessons learned from navigating the unique challenges of a family business.
This discussion is especially timely as two members of our team, Joe and Lan, will be sharing their experiences and advice on succession planning at the 2025 North American Gamebird Association (NAGA) Convention. With so many family-run businesses in the gamebird industry and beyond, we hope our story and insights can inspire others to plan for a strong and sustainable future.
What is Your #1 Tip for Planning A Successful Succession?
Kevin Haas (4th Generation) – “Create and continually document guidelines/rules because when a family member tests boundaries, it causes conflict in the family dynamic. Develop strong ethics, morals, industry expertise and leadership skills for incoming and existing family members.”
Fred Haas (4th Generation) – “Come up with the rules that work for YOUR company and have everyone agree to follow them even during the most difficult times.”
Joe Haas (4th Generation) – “Having all the family policies written down so that there is no ambiguity on the policies.”
Chris Schwalbach (4th Generation) – “Compile rules and guidelines for entering and exiting the business. Examples: Years worked outside the business before entering, college degree / trade experience, then mandatory retirement age, accessibility post-retirement. Establish what roles need to be replaced as family members near retirement age vs roles that can be phased out with retirement. Be aware of potential family members who can take on those roles so that job training can happen for smoother transition.”
Alex Wendel (5th Generation) – “To get outside help in the form of an advisor or consultant who has experience in helping other companies plan for their futures as well.”
Ryan Haas (5th Generation) – “Be very specific with requirements and rules around both entering and exiting the business. Leaving too much up to subjectivity can lead to conflict.”
Mandy Greene (5th Generation) – “Define family and company values, make sure everyone shares those values and practices them in daily work and life. Outline firm but fair standardized policies for compensation, benefits, recognition, etc. that all family members agree to follow.”
4th Generation
Kevin A. Haas: President, Laser, R&D (11th) Fred E. Haas, III: Senior Vice-President, Operations (9th) Joe D. Haas, Jr.: Senior Vice-President, Purchasing (5th) Brad C. Haas: Senior Vice-President, Production (3rd) Sean C. Haas: Senior Vice-President, Logistics, Secretary (2nd) Christine Haas Schwalbach: Sales (6th)
5th Generation
Alan J. Haas (Lan): Vice-President, Safety & Quality Assurance (4th) Alex A. Wendel: Vice-President, Information Technology, Treasurer (1st) Andrea Wendel Tabor (Andi): Vice-President, Web & Graphic Design (8th) Ryan P. Haas: Vice-President, Global Accounts (7th) Amanda Haas Greene (Mandy): HR (10th)
https://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.png00Alisonhttps://www.nationalband.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2014-NBT-Logo-for-Website-01-1030x371.pngAlison2025-02-05 11:00:002025-02-05 14:10:12Navigating the Struggles of Succession Planning in a Family Business
As the year comes to a close, all of us at National Band & Tag want to take a moment to thank you, our valued customers, for your trust and support in 2024. Whether we provided you with plain blank tags or highly customized tags, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve you.
We’re honored to be your go-to source for dependable, American-made tags. Your loyalty and feedback drive us to improve and innovate, and we’re excited to bring even more to the table in 2025. As we look ahead, we remain committed to providing you with exceptional customer service, top-notch products, and fast, reliable delivery. Whether you’re returning to us for your trusted favorites or exploring new ways to enhance your business with custom tags, we are here to help.
Thank you once again for choosing National Band & Tag. We wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to working with you in 2025 and beyond!
Warm regards, The National Band & Tag Team Your Partner in Identification Solutions Since 1902
Holiday Closures:
Christmas: Closed Monday, December 23rd through Wednesday, December 25th
New Year’s: Closed Wednesday, January 1st
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When it comes to outfitting hunting dogs with durable, practical accessories, our customer, Outdoor Dog Supply, sets the standard. A trusted online dog training and tracking supply store, Outdoor Dog Supply provides high-quality brass name tags and collars to hunting dog owners.
Customization for Every Dog
Outdoor Dog Supply uses our blank brass tags and then custom embosses each tag with your personal information. Made from rust-resistant brass and featuring raised lettering, these tags ensure that the owner’s information stays visible, no matter the conditions in the field. Designed to endure tough environments, the tags won’t fade or wear down, keeping hunting dogs easily identifiable even during the roughest adventures. Outdoor Dog Supply’s customization process allows customers to tailor each tag to include essential information about the dog, like the dog’s name, owner contact details, and even hunting club names.
Why Slide-On Tags and Riveted Tags are Preferred by Hunters
Outdoor Dog Supply’s clients can choose from various collar and tag styles, including riveted or slide-on tags, which provide a secure fit without the noise of traditional jingling tags. Noise can be a concern when hunting, as even slight jingling can alert nearby wildlife. These tag styles keep dogs quiet while they’re tracking game, making them ideal for hunters who value stealth in the field.
For more information on Outdoor Dog Supply’s products and to view their wide selection of hunting dog collars, tags, and accessories, visit OutdoorDogSupply.com.
Show below: Style #141 Oblong Plate Tag and Style #14 Rectangle with Rounded Corners Plate Tag in .036″ Brass.
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National Band & Tag’s bird bands aren’t just for birds. They can also be used on lanyards, calls, apparel, decoys, gear, and other bird hunting accessories. Our bird bands can be customized with any information, including your company name, phone number, website, email, social media handles, and more!
Custom Bird Bands for Hunting Apparel – A Unique Branding Opportunity:
In the competitive world of hunting apparel and accessories, standing out is crucial. At National Band & Tag, we offer a unique solution that not only enhances your products but also reinforces your brand identity – custom bird bands. Whether you are branding duck calls, lanyards, rifles, business cards, trade show booth giveaways, or decoys, our bird bands offer a versatile and eye-catching solution. They are great at reminding customers where they bought a product from when it’s time to reorder. They also generate word of mouth and get people talking about your products.
How to Design Your Bands:
1.) SIZE: If you need a specific size for something like a call or lanyard, find the diameter of your item. If you don’t need a specific size, then we recommend our Style #1242-14 duck band and Style #1242-24 goose band. 2.) COLOR: After you know what style/size band you want, you can now select your color. Color options vary by size. Go to our bird band page here and click on the size you want. All the colors for that specific size will then be listed. The most popular color is plain (silver) aluminum like what you would find on an actual bird banded by the USGS Bird Banding Lab. 3.) STAMPING: Stamping limitations are also based on the band size. You can view the stamping limitations by band size here. The more text you add, the smaller the text will be. Serial numbers will be off to the side of your text unless you want a Federal Band look. You can see the difference between the two stamping set ups here. 4.) APPLICATORS: NB&T applicators are made to fit each individual size of band. Bands will arrive closed on a string, so if you plan on keeping them closed, then you won’t need an applicator. But if you plan on opening and closing the bands around your product, then we recommend getting an applicator. They are designed to close the band and keep it rounded. If you were to use standard pliers to close the band, it may deform it some. If you have any questions about what can or can’t be done on a band, contact us at tags@nationalband.com or 859-261-2035. Our customer service representatives are available to answer questions and help you find the best design for your band.
Customer Examples:
Check out the samples below provided by our customers of how they use NB&T custom bird bands on their products.
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In the world of hand-made products, craftsmanship, and attention to detail set your creations apart. Whether you’re crafting unique jewelry, custom furniture, or artisanal goods, your work deserves to be recognized and remembered. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by labeling your products with promotional nameplates. At National Band & Tag, we specialize in creating high-quality promotional nameplates that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your products but also provide numerous benefits for your brand.
Why Label Your Hand-Made Products?
Brand Recognition and Professionalism Promotional nameplates serve as a signature of your brand. They transform your hand-made items from anonymous creations into identifiable works of art. When customers see your nameplate, they instantly recognize your brand, increasing recall and recognition. A professional nameplate communicates that you take pride in your work and pay attention to the finer details, setting your products apart in a crowded marketplace. Enhanced Perceived Value A well-crafted nameplate can significantly elevate the perceived value of your products. It acts as a seal of quality and authenticity, reassuring customers that they are purchasing a genuine, high-quality item. This perceived value can justify a higher price point and foster a sense of exclusivity and prestige around your brand. Marketing and Promotion Nameplates are not just labels; they are powerful marketing tools. Every product with your nameplate becomes a mini billboard, promoting your brand wherever it goes. Customers who love your products will proudly showcase them, spreading word-of-mouth and increasing your brand’s visibility organically. This form of passive marketing can lead to new customers and repeat business.
Why Choose National Band & Tag for Your Nameplates?
At National Band & Tag, we understand the unique needs of artisans and creators. Our promotional nameplates are designed to meet the highest standards of quality and durability. We offer a wide range of tag shapes, sizes, and customization options to match your brand’s aesthetic and functional requirements. From materials like brass, aluminum, and stainless steel to various finishes and engraving options, we can create nameplates that perfectly complement your products. Our nameplates are built to last. They are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that your branding remains intact for the lifetime of the product. With over a century of experience in the industry, National Band & Tag brings unparalleled expertise to every project. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized service and ensuring that your nameplates meet your exact specifications. Contact us today for a free price quote on your promotional nameplates.
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September 28th is World Rabies Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and accelerating efforts towards rabies elimination. Created by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), 2024’s theme is “Breaking Rabies Boundaries”. This theme reflects the pressing need to move beyond the status quo, where rabies elimination remains elusive for many parts of the world, causing suffering and claiming both human and animal lives. This theme was created to help achieve the ultimate goal of Zero by 30, zero human dog-mediated rabies deaths by 2030.
“Breaking Rabies Boundaries” means tackling the barriers that are currently preventing the eradication of rabies, such as:
Disease Silos: Align efforts with the World Health Organization to connect efforts across different diseases and foster integrated approaches.
One Health Collaboration: Encourage joint actions between sectors to tackle rabies as a team.
Cooperation: Improve teamwork among local, national, and international stakeholders.
Innovation: Embrace new tools and ideas to enhance rabies prevention and control efforts.
Program Expansion: Scale up efforts to make a bigger impact.
Public Awareness: Educate the public to correct misconceptions and increase understanding of the rabies disease. Using this knowledge to drive community engagement.
National Band & Tag has been a supporter of rabies vaccinations for decades as a manufacturer of rabies tags. We are celebrating World Rabies Day with our 2025 Blue Rosette rabies tags! The Blue Rosette shape is the recommended rabies tag style by NASPHV for 2025. The style of the year is our style #147 and #147PAW. Enhance your rabies tags with Paw Finders! A rabies tag and lost pet recovery system all in one tag. Learn more about Paw Finders here.
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Smarter Plant Management with Durable Tree and Plant Tags
Tree ID tags do more than label a species—they serve as powerful tools for management, research, education, and public engagement in arboretums, botanical gardens, and public parks.
At National Band & Tag, we manufacture durable aluminum tags that are trusted by professionals across the country to enhance the care and interpretation of plant collections. Our most popular styles for these applications include the Style #14ARBOR for trees and the Style #14PLANT for smaller plants and shrubs.
What Tree Tags Can Do
Inventory and Data Management
Engraved with unique identifiers, tree tags link each plant to its database record—tracking planting dates, origin, health assessments, maintenance schedules, and location.
Health Monitoring
Numbered tags make it easier to monitor and document changes over time. This helps staff detect and respond to issues such as disease, pests, or environmental stress.
Research and Education
Tree tags support scientific studies and educational programs by providing consistent labeling and easy reference points for both professionals and the public.
Public Interpretation and Engagement
Display labels go beyond scientific names—they may include family, geographic origin, or QR codes that connect visitors to online resources. This adds an interactive element to gardens and arboretums, encouraging learning and exploration.
Horticultural Tracking
Tags are also used to distinguish cultivars and hybrids, aiding in conservation, propagation, and breeding efforts.
Join Us at the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference
National Band & Tag is proud to be exhibiting at the NRPA (National Recreation and Park Association) Annual Conference, September 16–17 in Orlando, FL.
Booth #1431: We’ll be showcasing our best-selling #14ARBOR Tree Tags and #14PLANT Tags, used in parks, arboretums, and gardens nationwide.
If you’re looking for custom engraved tags for your next project—whether it’s a tree inventory or an interactive plant trail—stop by our booth to see samples, get expert advice, and learn about our customization options like QR codes, numbering, and logos.
Ready to Tag Smarter?
Explore our plant and arboretum tag styles online:
www.nationalband.com/arboretum-tags
www.nationalband.com/plant-tags
Or contact us today for a custom quote.
Celebrating 123 Years of National Band & Tag
This month marks a major milestone—National Band & Tag is celebrating our 123rd anniversary! Since our founding on August 15, 1902, in Newport, Kentucky, our family-owned business has proudly served customers across a wide range of industries, from poultry farms and veterinarians to arborists, zoos, and industrial manufacturers.
A Look Back at Our Legacy
What started with poultry leg bands has grown into a full line of identification solutions for animals, plants, assets, and equipment. Over the years, we’ve expanded into new markets, developed custom laser etching capabilities, and embraced innovative solutions—all while keeping production right here in the USA.
With five generations of family leadership, we’ve built long-standing relationships with customers who rely on the accuracy, durability, and customization of our tags. From rabies tags and vineyard signs to power pole tags and custom asset plates, our products continue to evolve to meet the needs of today’s industries.
Innovation Through the Years
As technology advanced, so did we. In recent decades, we’ve introduced:
Even after 123 years, we’re still looking forward—to new industries, new tag styles, and new ways to help our customers solve identification challenges.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey
We wouldn’t be here without our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and supportive community. Whether you’ve been with us for 30 years or just placed your first order, thank you for trusting National Band & Tag.
Here’s to 123 years—and many more to come!
Celebrate National Lost Pet Prevention Month with Paw Finders
July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month, a reminder for pet owners and veterinary professionals alike to take proactive steps in keeping animals safe and identifiable. With millions of pets going missing every year, one small tag can make a life-changing difference—especially when it’s backed by technology.
That’s where Paw Finders comes in.
What is Paw Finders?
Paw Finders is more than just a rabies tag. It’s a dual-purpose solution that combines rabies identification with a scannable QR code that helps reunite lost pets with their owners.
Each tag is linked to an online profile that includes the pet owner’s name and phone number. If a lost pet is found, anyone with a smartphone can scan the tag and connect with the owner directly—no special scanner or vet visit needed.
For Pet Owners:
Have a Paw Finders Tag? Don’t Forget to Register It!
If your veterinarian gave you a Paw Finders rabies tag this year, take a moment to register it. It only takes a minute, but that small step could be the key to bringing your pet home safely.
Already registered? Great! But take this opportunity during National Lost Pet Prevention Month to double-check that your contact info is still up to date. If you need to update a phone number or email, just send your Tag ID number and new contact info to support@pawfinders.com.
For Veterinarians:
Help Your Clients Protect Their Pets with Paw Finders
If you’re a veterinary clinic currently ordering generic rabies tags, consider making the switch to Paw Finders for your 2026 rabies tag order. By offering these upgraded tags, you’re giving your clients peace of mind and adding extra value to their pet’s annual visit.
Paw Finders makes it easy:
Want to learn more? Visit www.pawfinders.com or share the site with your tag supplier to explore options for next year.
Preventing Lost Pets Starts with You
This month, do your part—whether that means registering your pet’s tag, reminding a friend, or encouraging your vet to make the switch to Paw Finders. Every action brings us one step closer to fewer lost pets and more happy reunions.
Celebrate National Park and Recreation Month with Durable Tree and Plant Tags
July is National Park and Recreation Month, a time to recognize the vital role that parks, green spaces, and recreation areas play in enhancing our communities. At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to support park departments across the country with durable, custom tree and plant identification tags that help keep park landscapes organized, educational, and beautiful.
As a trusted supplier to arboretums, botanical gardens, and park systems, we know the importance of clear, long-lasting labels—especially in outdoor environments where tags need to withstand sun, wind, rain, and time.
Identification Solutions Designed for Parks
Our most popular styles among park professionals include:
We also offer other tree and plant identification solutions such as write-on tags and plastic stakes to accommodate a wide range of park needs and budgets. Whether you’re managing a large arboretum or a small community garden, we have a tagging solution for you.
Trusted by ArbNet Accredited Arboretums
We’re proud to serve many ArbNet-accredited arboretums with tags that meet the high standards required for accreditation. Our products help support your mission of education, conservation, and public engagement by making it easy to label and showcase your living collections.
Meet Us at the NRPA Conference
National Band & Tag will be exhibiting at the 2025 National Recreation and Parks Association’s Annual Conference, Booth 1431 this September in Orlando, FL. We look forward to connecting with park directors, managers, and coordinators in person and discussing how our tags can improve your signage and plant identification efforts.
Why Park Professionals Choose National Band & Tag
Ready to improve your plant and tree identification?
Explore our full line of Horticulture Tags and see why so many park professionals trust National Band & Tag’s products.
Supporting Wildlife Conservation During National Zoo and Aquarium Month
June is National Zoo and Aquarium Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the vital work that zoos and aquariums do to protect endangered species, educate the public, and lead global conservation efforts. At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to play a small but important role in supporting these organizations through high-quality, reliable identification solutions.
Identification Tags for Conservation
From zoos and aquariums to wildlife conservation programs, accurate animal identification is key to research and long-term care. That’s where we come in.
National Band & Tag manufactures a wide range of wildlife conservation tags. Bird Bands, Ear Tags, and Fish Tags are all used for a multitude of reasons, including but not limited to; identify individual specimens, track migratory patterns, monitor health, manage breeding programs in both wild and captive populations, study behavior and monitor growth.
Trusted by Zoos and Aquariums Nationwide
Our bird bands are used by zoos across the country for both native and exotic species. Whether it’s color-coded identification for parrots, leg bands for cranes, or small aluminum bands for finches, our tags are designed with the needs of avian experts in mind.
Aquariums turn to us for small, corrosion-resistant fish tags—helping researchers identify species in educational exhibits, breeding tanks, or tagging for release-and-monitor studies.
Why Choose National Band & Tag?
Partnering in Conservation
Every tag we make is an opportunity to support an animal’s care and conservation. Whether you’re monitoring endangered species or managing a breeding program, National Band & Tag is here to support your mission with reliable identification products.
Browse our Wildlife Conservation Tags to find the right solution for your program.
Supporting Sea Turtle Conservation in the Indian Ocean with NB&T Flipper Tags
Sea turtles are some of the ocean’s most iconic and endangered creatures. In the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia (IOSEA) region, conservationists work tirelessly to protect these animals through research, habitat protection, and one crucial tool—flipper tagging.
At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to support global wildlife conservation by supplying high-quality flipper tags used by researchers and organizations across the Indian Ocean. Our tags help track, study, and protect sea turtles throughout their life cycles.
Why Tag Sea Turtles?
Flipper tagging is a simple but powerful method used by conservationists to:
By identifying individual turtles, scientists can answer important questions about where turtles go, how long they live, and how human activity impacts their survival.
Sea Turtle Tagging in the Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean is home to several sea turtle species, including green, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles. Many countries in this region participate in the IOSEA Marine Turtle Memorandum of Understanding, a program that promotes international cooperation in sea turtle research and conservation.
On the IOSEA Flipper Tag Series database, you’ll find a long list of tag styles in use throughout the region—and many of them are from National Band & Tag. Our tags are trusted for their durability, accuracy, and reliability in harsh marine conditions.
Our Most Popular Sea Turtle Flipper Tags in the Indian Ocean
National Band & Tag is proud to have several flipper tag styles widely used in sea turtle research and conservation efforts across the Indian Ocean. These durable tags are built to withstand harsh marine environments:
Style 681IC – Made from Inconel, this corrosion-resistant tag is ideal for long-term use on smaller sea turtles. It’s one of the most commonly used tags in the region due to its durability and reliability.
Style 691IL – Also made from Inconel, this newer tag option features a longer design to accommodate more stamped data. Recommended for larger sea turtles.
Style 1005-49 – A self-piercing tag made from Monel, typically used on larger turtles. While still in use today, Inconel tags like the 681IC and 691IL are preferred for their superior resistance to corrosion and longer lifespan in marine environments.
These tags are designed to stay secure over time without causing harm to the turtles—helping researchers gather valuable information while prioritizing animal welfare.
Helping Save Sea Turtles, One Tag at a Time
At National Band & Tag, we believe in doing our part to support wildlife conservation. By providing dependable tagging solutions to marine biologists, researchers, and environmental organizations, we’re proud to play a role in protecting endangered species like sea turtles.
Whether it’s tracking a turtle’s journey across the ocean or monitoring nesting habits along tropical beaches, our tags help make this vital work possible.
How National Band & Tag’s Blind Shipping Saves Resellers Time and Money
At National Band & Tag, we proudly partner with resellers and distributors across multiple industries — from veterinary suppliers to industrial equipment companies and beyond. Whether you’re already a valued NB&T reseller or you’re considering expanding your product offerings, we’re here to make doing business easier and more efficient for you.
One of the top ways we support our resellers is through blind shipping — a simple, cost-saving service designed to streamline your order fulfillment process.
What is Blind Shipping?
Blind shipping means that when you place an order with National Band & Tag, we can ship the product directly to your customer, without any NB&T branding on the box or packing materials. Instead of our company name, the shipment will look like it came directly from you.
How Blind Shipping Benefits Resellers
Save on Shipping Costs:
No need to ship the products to yourself first, only to repackage and send them out again. With blind shipping, you avoid paying for double shipping — a major advantage when managing tight margins.
Faster Turnaround for Your Customers:
Speed matters. Blind shipping lets your end user receive their order faster, helping you provide better service and boosting customer satisfaction.
Protect Your Brand:
Because the box arrives without National Band & Tag’s branding, your relationship with your customer stays strong and direct. Your customer sees you as their full-service provider, without confusion about who manufactured the product.
Simplify Your Workflow:
By letting NB&T handle the fulfillment, you can focus on sales, customer service, and growing your business instead of spending time repackaging and shipping.
How to Request Blind Shipping
It’s easy! When placing your order, just let our team know you would like to blind ship to your customer. We’ll take care of the rest, ensuring the shipment arrives in a plain box with no NB&T logos or information included.
Grow Your Business with NB&T
Partnering with National Band & Tag gives you access to high-quality, American-made identification products, a responsive and experienced customer service team, and value-added services like blind shipping that help you operate more efficiently.
If you’re not already an NB&T reseller, we invite you to learn more about our program here.
Ready to add blind shipping to your next order?
Contact us today to get started!
Considering Your Future? Start a Career at National Band & Tag!
As graduation approaches, you might be wondering, “What’s next?” If college isn’t in your plans, that doesn’t mean your future isn’t bright. At National Band & Tag, we’re proud to offer hands-on careers right here in Newport, KY. Whether you’re a recent high school grad or someone looking for a new career path, our family-owned company provides stable jobs with multiple benefits,.
We sat down with Mandy, our HR Manager, to answer some common questions about working at National Band & Tag and why it’s a great choice for local high school graduates.
If you’re looking for a stable job with great benefits, hands-on training, and a supportive team, National Band & Tag could be the perfect place to start your career. Check out our openings today and take the first step toward your future! www.nationalband.com/careers
Celebrate Arbor Day with Tree Tags That Tell a Story
Arbor Day is a time to celebrate the importance of trees in our lives, communities, and ecosystems. Whether you’re planting a single tree in your backyard or working on a large-scale arboretum project, every tree has a story—and National Band & Tag is here to help you tell it.
Why Tree Labeling Matters
Trees are often part of the backdrop of our lives—beautiful, but frequently overlooked. Labeling trees with identification tags brings attention to their significance and invites people to learn more. When someone sees a tag, they’re more likely to stop, read, and connect with the tree.
Our tree tags and arboretum tags make it easy to share key information, such as the tree’s species, origin, planting date, or donor name. This type of labeling helps:
Arbor Day Across the U.S.
Arbor Day is observed on different dates across the country, depending on the best tree planting times in each state. While many states celebrate in April or May during peak planting season. No matter when your community celebrates, the purpose remains the same—to recognize the value of trees and encourage planting for a greener future.
Long-Lasting Tree Tags with Custom QR Codes, Text, and Logos
Our UV Stable Black Aluminum tree tags are built to last in outdoor environments for 20+ years, making them a reliable choice for long-term tree identification and memorials. These tags withstand harsh weather without fading, rusting, or corroding. Customize each tag with multiple lines of text, your organization’s logo, and even a QR code that links to a webpage for more information about the tree—perfect for educational trails, arboretums, and historical landmarks. Click here to view our different Tree Tag styles.
Simplify Asset Management with Vinyl Snap-Off Tags
When it comes to efficiently tracking and managing assets, businesses need easy-to-use identification solutions. National Band & Tag’s Vinyl Snap-Off Tags offer a practical and cost-effective way to label and organize equipment, tools, inventory, and more.
What Are Vinyl Snap-Off Tags?
Our Vinyl Snap-Off Tags are made from durable vinyl, making them ideal for indoor and outdoor applications. These tags come on a perforated strip allowing tags to be quickly snapped off the strip of tags as needed. These tags can be laser etched with a barcode and human readable number or be blank.
Why Choose Vinyl Snap-Off Tags?
Case Study
A great example of these tags in action is a customer in the sporting apparel industry needed a tag to track inventory from their warehouse to their retail stores all across the country. They needed something heavy duty to stand up to harsh conditions, but still flexible, and that could easily be attached or removed. This customer also wanted to go paperless, so they needed a barcode to scan.
The solution that NB&T came up with for this company was to use our Vinyl Snap Off Tags (Style 144V). These tags are made of vinyl, so they are sturdier than a paper label, but are thin and flexible enough that the customer can staple them to wood pallets. They are also laser etched with a linear bar code, so when scanned, it shows how much inventory should be on that wood pallet, along with which retail store location it is being shipped to. The pallet is scanned at the warehouse and then scanned again at the store to make sure no inventory was lost in transit.
Order Your Vinyl Snap-Off Tags Online
National Band & Tag is your trusted partner for high-quality, durable identification tags. Our Vinyl Snap-Off Tags provide a reliable way to improve asset tracking and efficiency in your business.
Now available to purchase through our online store! Choose from:
Visit our Plastic Asset Tags page to learn more, or order online today to streamline your asset tracking system!
Celebrating 10 Years with AWRF – Visit Us at the 2025 Spring PIE & Technical Summit
National Band & Tag is proud to be exhibiting at the 2025 Spring PIE & Technical Summit, hosted by the Association of Wire Rope Fabricators (AWRF)! Join us April 6–8, 2025, at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel in Denver, Colorado, and visit us at Booth #408 to see our wire rope and chain sling identification solutions in person.
As a trusted tag manufacturer and AWRF member of 10 years, we’re excited to showcase our most popular products for the rigging and lifting industry, including:
Heavy-duty tags designed to meet OSHA and ASME B30.9 requirements for chain sling identification. Custom stamped with your capacity, serial numbers, inspection data, and more.
Ideal for identifying wire rope slings, these tags can be custom stamped with or without a serial number in a single leg or multi-leg format.
Need tags fast? Ask about our Quick Ship Tags, perfect for job sites and field inspectors who need blank or pre-stamped tags on short notice.
Why Tagging Matters:
Proper identification is essential for safety, traceability, and compliance in lifting applications. Our tags help ensure your rigging equipment meets industry standards while withstanding the toughest conditions. Meet OSHA’s requirement for wire ropes and chain slings to have an identification marker.
Let’s Connect in Denver!
If you’re attending the 2025 AWRF Spring PIE & Technical Summit, don’t miss Booth #408. Come see our products in person and discuss how we can support your rigging identification needs.
Want to connect ahead of the show? Contact us here.
National Poultry Day: Wing Bands or Leg Bands—Which Do You Prefer?
National Poultry Day is the perfect time to recognize the tools that help poultry owners, breeders, and farmers efficiently identify their birds. At National Band & Tag, we offer a wide selection of poultry identification bands, but two of the most popular options are wing bands and leg bands.
Each style has its advantages, and the choice often comes down to personal preference, poultry type, and identification needs. Which option do you prefer?
Wing Bands: Long-Lasting Identification
Wing bands are a permanent, tamper-resistant option applied to the wing webbing of young birds. These bands are designed to stay in place for the bird’s entire life, making them ideal for breeding programs, commercial farms, and game birds.
Popular Wing Bands
Leg Bands: Flexible and Color-Coded Identification
Leg bands are a versatile and easy-to-apply option for poultry identification. They are available in a variety of sizes and materials, making them a great fit for everything from backyard chickens to commercial flocks.
Popular Leg Bands
Which Identification Method Do You Prefer?
Some poultry owners prefer the permanence of wing bands, while others like the versatility of leg bands. Either way, both options provide reliable identification to help keep flocks organized and well-managed.
Which do you use—wing bands or leg bands? Let us know in the comments!
Explore our full selection of poultry bands here: Poultry Bands
Case Study: How National Band & Tag Helped Union Pacific Railroad Streamline Their Asset Tagging System
The Challenge
Union Pacific Railroad, a leading transportation company in North America, relies on a vast network of railways, locomotives, and infrastructure to keep goods moving across the country. With thousands of assets spread across their system, efficient tracking and identification are critical. Years ago, when Union Pacific transitioned to an SAP software system, they faced a challenge: standardizing their asset tags across multiple engineering firms responsible for maintaining and ordering tags for their equipment. Without a unified tagging system, inconsistencies in tag design, formatting, and data could create confusion, slow down operations, and impact efficiency.
The Solution
Union Pacific turned to National Band & Tag to develop a streamlined asset tagging solution that would integrate seamlessly into their new system. Our team worked closely with Union Pacific to create a customized ordering template that ensures every tag meets their specific requirements, regardless of which engineering company places the order.
Key Features of the Solution:
Since implementing this standardized tagging system, Union Pacific’s asset management has become more efficient. Even though Union Pacific no longer orders tags directly, their engineering firms can seamlessly place orders while ensuring uniformity across all tags. This solution has helped:
✔ Maintain a consistent appearance across all asset tags.
✔ Improve traceability and organization of railroad assets.
✔ Reduce errors and confusion caused by inconsistent tag designs.
✔ Streamline the ordering process for engineering firms.
Union Pacific’s success story demonstrates how a well-designed tagging system can simplify operations and improve efficiency. National Band & Tag takes pride in creating customized solutions that help businesses, large and small, manage their assets effectively.
If your company is looking for a durable and standardized tagging solution, contact us today to see how we can help!
Screen Printing on Aluminum VS Inverted Text & Logos on Black UV Stable Aluminum
What is Screen Printing and It’s Challenges:
Screen printing, also known as silk screening, is a technique used to apply designs onto various surfaces, including aluminum. This method involves creating a stencil (or screen) and using it to apply layers of ink on the metal surface. It’s widely used for producing metal tags, nameplates, and labels with detailed graphics. The printed ink sits atop the metal surface, which can be susceptible to wear, scratching, and fading over time, especially in harsh environments. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors to fade, making it less suitable for outdoor applications without additional protective measures. The initial setup for screen printing can be time-consuming and may incur higher costs, particularly for small batches.
National Band & Tag’s Alternative: Inverted Logos on Black UV Stable Aluminum
At National Band & Tag, we offer an alternative to traditional screen printing by utilizing inverted logos on black UV stable aluminum. This process involves laser etching the black top away, leaving just the text or logo behind in black. What is laser etched away is now silver.
Laser etching creates a permanent mark that is resistant to wear, scratching, and fading, ensuring longevity even in demanding environments. The UV stable anodized aluminum is designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight and harsh weather conditions without degrading. The contrast between the black surface and the silver etched design results in clear and easily readable tags, suitable for various applications. Laser etching eliminates the need for inks and chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to screen printing.
By choosing this method, you can achieve the classic black text on a silver background aesthetic, with the added benefits of durability and resistance to environmental factors.
See more examples of laser etching on Black UV Stable Aluminum tags here.
Navigating the Struggles of Succession Planning in a Family Business
Succession planning is a challenge that many family businesses face when passing the business down through multiple generations. At National Band & Tag, a proud family-run business, we know firsthand the complexities of balancing family dynamics with strategic decision-making for the future. With 11 family members on our management team in the 4th and 5th generations, we’ve learned that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to ensuring a smooth transition.
To shed light on this important topic, we polled some of our family management team to share their #1 tip for planning a successful succession. Their insights reflect not only the values that have helped sustain our company for generations but also the lessons learned from navigating the unique challenges of a family business.
This discussion is especially timely as two members of our team, Joe and Lan, will be sharing their experiences and advice on succession planning at the 2025 North American Gamebird Association (NAGA) Convention. With so many family-run businesses in the gamebird industry and beyond, we hope our story and insights can inspire others to plan for a strong and sustainable future.
What is Your #1 Tip for Planning A Successful Succession?
Kevin Haas (4th Generation) – “Create and continually document guidelines/rules because when a family member tests boundaries, it causes conflict in the family dynamic. Develop strong ethics, morals, industry expertise and leadership skills for incoming and existing family members.”
Fred Haas (4th Generation) – “Come up with the rules that work for YOUR company and have everyone agree to follow them even during the most difficult times.”
Joe Haas (4th Generation) – “Having all the family policies written down so that there is no ambiguity on the policies.”
Chris Schwalbach (4th Generation) – “Compile rules and guidelines for entering and exiting the business. Examples: Years worked outside the business before entering, college degree / trade experience, then mandatory retirement age, accessibility post-retirement. Establish what roles need to be replaced as family members near retirement age vs roles that can be phased out with retirement. Be aware of potential family members who can take on those roles so that job training can happen for smoother transition.”
Alex Wendel (5th Generation) – “To get outside help in the form of an advisor or consultant who has experience in helping other companies plan for their futures as well.”
Ryan Haas (5th Generation) – “Be very specific with requirements and rules around both entering and exiting the business. Leaving too much up to subjectivity can lead to conflict.”
Mandy Greene (5th Generation) – “Define family and company values, make sure everyone shares those values and practices them in daily work and life. Outline firm but fair standardized policies for compensation, benefits, recognition, etc. that all family members agree to follow.”
4th Generation
Kevin A. Haas: President, Laser, R&D (11th)
Fred E. Haas, III: Senior Vice-President, Operations (9th)
Joe D. Haas, Jr.: Senior Vice-President, Purchasing (5th)
Brad C. Haas: Senior Vice-President, Production (3rd)
Sean C. Haas: Senior Vice-President, Logistics, Secretary (2nd)
Christine Haas Schwalbach: Sales (6th)
5th Generation
Alan J. Haas (Lan): Vice-President, Safety & Quality Assurance (4th)
Alex A. Wendel: Vice-President, Information Technology, Treasurer (1st)
Andrea Wendel Tabor (Andi): Vice-President, Web & Graphic Design (8th)
Ryan P. Haas: Vice-President, Global Accounts (7th)
Amanda Haas Greene (Mandy): HR (10th)
Thank You for a Fantastic Year!
As the year comes to a close, all of us at National Band & Tag want to take a moment to thank you, our valued customers, for your trust and support in 2024. Whether we provided you with plain blank tags or highly customized tags, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve you.
We’re honored to be your go-to source for dependable, American-made tags. Your loyalty and feedback drive us to improve and innovate, and we’re excited to bring even more to the table in 2025. As we look ahead, we remain committed to providing you with exceptional customer service, top-notch products, and fast, reliable delivery. Whether you’re returning to us for your trusted favorites or exploring new ways to enhance your business with custom tags, we are here to help.
Thank you once again for choosing National Band & Tag. We wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to working with you in 2025 and beyond!
Warm regards,
The National Band & Tag Team
Your Partner in Identification Solutions Since 1902
Holiday Closures:
Christmas: Closed Monday, December 23rd through Wednesday, December 25th
New Year’s: Closed Wednesday, January 1st
Outdoor Dog Supply
When it comes to outfitting hunting dogs with durable, practical accessories, our customer, Outdoor Dog Supply, sets the standard. A trusted online dog training and tracking supply store, Outdoor Dog Supply provides high-quality brass name tags and collars to hunting dog owners.
Customization for Every Dog
Outdoor Dog Supply uses our blank brass tags and then custom embosses each tag with your personal information. Made from rust-resistant brass and featuring raised lettering, these tags ensure that the owner’s information stays visible, no matter the conditions in the field. Designed to endure tough environments, the tags won’t fade or wear down, keeping hunting dogs easily identifiable even during the roughest adventures. Outdoor Dog Supply’s customization process allows customers to tailor each tag to include essential information about the dog, like the dog’s name, owner contact details, and even hunting club names.
Why Slide-On Tags and Riveted Tags are Preferred by Hunters
Outdoor Dog Supply’s clients can choose from various collar and tag styles, including riveted or slide-on tags, which provide a secure fit without the noise of traditional jingling tags. Noise can be a concern when hunting, as even slight jingling can alert nearby wildlife. These tag styles keep dogs quiet while they’re tracking game, making them ideal for hunters who value stealth in the field.
For more information on Outdoor Dog Supply’s products and to view their wide selection of hunting dog collars, tags, and accessories, visit OutdoorDogSupply.com.
Show below: Style #141 Oblong Plate Tag and Style #14 Rectangle with Rounded Corners Plate Tag in .036″ Brass.
Bird Bands for Lanyards, Calls, and Hunting Gear
National Band & Tag’s bird bands aren’t just for birds. They can also be used on lanyards, calls, apparel, decoys, gear, and other bird hunting accessories. Our bird bands can be customized with any information, including your company name, phone number, website, email, social media handles, and more!
Custom Bird Bands for Hunting Apparel – A Unique Branding Opportunity:
In the competitive world of hunting apparel and accessories, standing out is crucial. At National Band & Tag, we offer a unique solution that not only enhances your products but also reinforces your brand identity – custom bird bands. Whether you are branding duck calls, lanyards, rifles, business cards, trade show booth giveaways, or decoys, our bird bands offer a versatile and eye-catching solution. They are great at reminding customers where they bought a product from when it’s time to reorder. They also generate word of mouth and get people talking about your products.
How to Design Your Bands:
1.) SIZE: If you need a specific size for something like a call or lanyard, find the diameter of your item. If you don’t need a specific size, then we recommend our Style #1242-14 duck band and Style #1242-24 goose band. 2.) COLOR: After you know what style/size band you want, you can now select your color. Color options vary by size. Go to our bird band page here and click on the size you want. All the colors for that specific size will then be listed. The most popular color is plain (silver) aluminum like what you would find on an actual bird banded by the USGS Bird Banding Lab. 3.) STAMPING: Stamping limitations are also based on the band size. You can view the stamping limitations by band size here. The more text you add, the smaller the text will be. Serial numbers will be off to the side of your text unless you want a Federal Band look. You can see the difference between the two stamping set ups here. 4.) APPLICATORS: NB&T applicators are made to fit each individual size of band. Bands will arrive closed on a string, so if you plan on keeping them closed, then you won’t need an applicator. But if you plan on opening and closing the bands around your product, then we recommend getting an applicator. They are designed to close the band and keep it rounded. If you were to use standard pliers to close the band, it may deform it some. If you have any questions about what can or can’t be done on a band, contact us at tags@nationalband.com or 859-261-2035. Our customer service representatives are available to answer questions and help you find the best design for your band.
Customer Examples:
Check out the samples below provided by our customers of how they use NB&T custom bird bands on their products.
Mattamuskeet Lanyards
Lund Custom Calls
Vaughans Paracord Creations
Lookout Lanyards
Rob Roberts Custom Gun Works
Dave Smith Decoys
ID Your Hand-Made Products and Artwork
In the world of hand-made products, craftsmanship, and attention to detail set your creations apart. Whether you’re crafting unique jewelry, custom furniture, or artisanal goods, your work deserves to be recognized and remembered. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by labeling your products with promotional nameplates. At National Band & Tag, we specialize in creating high-quality promotional nameplates that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your products but also provide numerous benefits for your brand.
Why Label Your Hand-Made Products?
Brand Recognition and Professionalism Promotional nameplates serve as a signature of your brand. They transform your hand-made items from anonymous creations into identifiable works of art. When customers see your nameplate, they instantly recognize your brand, increasing recall and recognition. A professional nameplate communicates that you take pride in your work and pay attention to the finer details, setting your products apart in a crowded marketplace. Enhanced Perceived Value A well-crafted nameplate can significantly elevate the perceived value of your products. It acts as a seal of quality and authenticity, reassuring customers that they are purchasing a genuine, high-quality item. This perceived value can justify a higher price point and foster a sense of exclusivity and prestige around your brand. Marketing and Promotion Nameplates are not just labels; they are powerful marketing tools. Every product with your nameplate becomes a mini billboard, promoting your brand wherever it goes. Customers who love your products will proudly showcase them, spreading word-of-mouth and increasing your brand’s visibility organically. This form of passive marketing can lead to new customers and repeat business.
Why Choose National Band & Tag for Your Nameplates?
At National Band & Tag, we understand the unique needs of artisans and creators. Our promotional nameplates are designed to meet the highest standards of quality and durability. We offer a wide range of tag shapes, sizes, and customization options to match your brand’s aesthetic and functional requirements. From materials like brass, aluminum, and stainless steel to various finishes and engraving options, we can create nameplates that perfectly complement your products. Our nameplates are built to last. They are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that your branding remains intact for the lifetime of the product. With over a century of experience in the industry, National Band & Tag brings unparalleled expertise to every project. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized service and ensuring that your nameplates meet your exact specifications. Contact us today for a free price quote on your promotional nameplates.
World Rabies Day 2024: Breaking Rabies Boundaries
September 28th is World Rabies Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and accelerating efforts towards rabies elimination. Created by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), 2024’s theme is “Breaking Rabies Boundaries”. This theme reflects the pressing need to move beyond the status quo, where rabies elimination remains elusive for many parts of the world, causing suffering and claiming both human and animal lives. This theme was created to help achieve the ultimate goal of Zero by 30, zero human dog-mediated rabies deaths by 2030.
National Band & Tag has been a supporter of rabies vaccinations for decades as a manufacturer of rabies tags. We are celebrating World Rabies Day with our 2025 Blue Rosette rabies tags! The Blue Rosette shape is the recommended rabies tag style by NASPHV for 2025. The style of the year is our style #147 and #147PAW. Enhance your rabies tags with Paw Finders! A rabies tag and lost pet recovery system all in one tag. Learn more about Paw Finders here.