Thursday, July 23, 2020

Cage Card Printing

(Updated 2023-Feb-03)

We have had success with the following printer options:

DYMO LabelWriter Series

  • LabelWriter 5XL
  • LabelWriter 550 Series
  • LabelWriter 4XL
  • LabelWriter 450 Series
The 30256 Label (2.3" x 4") is a commonly used label size.


NOTE:  DYMO has recently made significant changes in the way their new 550 series printers work. They will no longer be able to use compatible labels from other brands. You will have to purchase DYMO brand labels that support their "Automatic Label Recognition" software and printer hardware.

A work-around from reddit (use at your discretion):  On the core of the official Dymo labels is an RFID/NFC tag. Just remove the tag from the cardboard core and tape it to the side of the machine. You can find a good spot when the flashing light on the front stops flashing.






Brother Label Printer Series

  • QL-700 Series
  • QL-800 Series
  • QL-1100 Series
The DK-1202 Label (2.4" x 4") is a commonly used label size.



iDPRT Label Printers   

  • SP-310
  • SP-420

This is our new favorite printer!  

It prints labels that use a 0.5/1.0/1.5 inch core size - compatible with common Zebra, Brother, and other 3rd party labels.

When installing the printer software (https://www.idprt.com/downloads/), we recommend the "Seagull Type" printer driver if available for your computer and printer model.  Seagull is a highly reputable company (https://www.seagullscientific.com/)

IT SUPPORTS A 3" x 5" LABEL!

OfficeSmartLabels - 3" x 5" Direct Thermal Labels - Compatible with Zebra & Rollo Desktop Label Printers and More – 1” Core, Permanent Adhesive & Perforated [300/Roll, 1200 Labels in 4 Rolls (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V5H8CCA)

Zebra Label Printers

  • GX420D
  • ... many other models
One interesting alternative is Zebra GX420D. With this printer, consider also purchasing:
  • Optional Wireless Internet Network Ready (WiFi)
  • Adjustable Paper Size Rails


The Zebra thermal printer will print labels, including those with a robust card stock backing. These may be used without peeling the label off and inserted directly into a standard cage card holder. Example stock: RL953DT - 3" x 5" Thermal Roll Labels - 1" Core / 4" Outer Diameter. Be warned, however: setup of the Zebra is not plug-and-play like the DYMO; some technical savvy is required!