UID Marking Options: Direct part marking vs. UID Labels - Brady Canada
DoD UID Compliance

What are Your Options for UID Marking?

Thermal transfer labels provide cost-effective option for UID marking

While there are strict regulations on the format of the UID mark, the DoD does not give specific requirements for the method in which the mark is applied; the UID mark can be applied in a variety of techniques.

The most common UID marking approaches include:

  • UID Direct Part Marking: Inkjet printers, chemical etching, dot peening, laser bonding, laser etching.
  • UID Data Plates: Plastic and metal
  • UID Thermal Transfer Labels: Polyester and metal foil

According to the DoD, nearly 80% of UID marking can be accomplished with a label.

In comparison to chemical etching, dot peen or laser markings, identification through the use of thermal transfer labels is an effective, low-cost option.

Marking Approach Marking Description Approximate Costs
UID Laser Marking This direct part marking solution etches a permanent UID mark on crystal, glass, plastics, stainless steel, auto parts and more. Solutions cost approx. $50,000+
Dot Peen Marking A UID direct part marking system that utilizes a mounted dot peen marking head and vertical, radial and angular axes to mark a variety of parts. Solutions cost approx. $30,000+
Brady DoD UID Labeling System Thermal transfer label printers, BradySoft™ Labeling Software and a large UID label offering that can harsh environments and chemicals. Solutions cost approx. $10,000+


Brady’s thermal transfer labels are specifically designed to meet the DoD’s UID requirements; they can withstand normal wear and tear for the life of the item, including the range of solvents and other chemicals that may come in contact with the mark. See our UID label materials to learn more.
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System Literature

Learn more about Brady's UID marking solutions by downloading the DoD UID Catalog.

DoD UID System Literature
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Brady identifies and protects products, people, and premises with high performance labels, industrial label printers, software, safety & facility identification, spill control, Lockout Tagout solutions and more. Brady helps you create and maintain safer work environments and comply with regulatory standards. Our high-performance materials clearly identify products, components and other assets, even in the most extreme conditions.