Skip to content 
Asset Tag
In brief
An asset tag is a label with a unique identifier that a company sticks on its devices, often as a barcode, QR code or RFID chip. The identifier links the device to its entry in the inventory list or asset database. This allows every laptop, every monitor and every server to be tracked until retirement.
What is an asset tag used for?
The asset tag answers the question of which device belongs to which entry in the inventory. It underlies stocktaking, assignment to employees, maintenance and the write-off at the end of use. In German it is also called Inventaretikett or Inventaraufkleber.
| Identifier | Who assigns it? | What for? |
|---|---|---|
| Serial number | Brand | Unique identity of the device, also in erasure and warranty documentation |
| Asset tag | Your company | Link to your own inventory register |
| Inventory number | Your company (accounting) | Assignment in the fixed asset register |
Asset tag when retiring devices
When retiring devices, the asset tag is part of the Chain of custody: If the asset tag and serial number are listed together in the device list, you can reliably assign every erasure or destruction certificate to your inventory. Before resale, however, the sticker must disappear, because it reveals which company the device came from. Second IT checks all delivered devices for the customer’s identifying marks and removes them completely so that the origin cannot be traced back.
Frequently asked questions about the asset tag
Is an asset tag the same as the serial number?
No. The manufacturer assigns the serial number, your company the asset tag. For documentation at retirement, the serial number is decisive; the asset tag helps with assignment to your own inventory.
What types of asset tags are there?
Common are stickers with plain text and barcode or QR code that can be captured with a scanner. For harsh environments there are metal or security labels that leave visible traces when removed. RFID labels can also be read without line of sight.
Do I have to remove asset tags myself before handover?
That is not necessary if your service provider takes care of removing customer identifiers. However, record the asset tag in your device list before handover so that you can assign the documentation later.
What is the difference between an asset tag and an inventory number?
Both are assigned by your company. The inventory number assigns the device in the accounting fixed asset register. The asset tag is the inventory label on the device and links it to the entry in your inventory list or asset database. Both belong in the device list.
Why must the asset tag disappear before resale?
The sticker reveals which company the device came from. Before resale, all markings of the previous owner should be removed completely. Record the asset tag beforehand in your device list so that you can assign later documentation.
Device list with serial numbers and asset tags? That becomes your offer.
Send us your device list. You will receive your offer in 48 hours on average.