Why Electronic Identification (EID) Tags Are Becoming Essential For Modern Cattle Operations

Electronic Identification (EID) tags are quickly becoming one of the most valuable tools available to today’s beef producers. Whether you operate a commercial cow-calf herd, stocker operation, feedlot, or seedstock program, RFID technology helps improve cattle recordkeeping, herd health management, traceability, and overall profitability.

As cattle producers continue adopting precision livestock management, EID tags provide faster, more accurate data collection while eliminating many of the errors associated with handwritten records.

What Are Electronic Identification (EID) Tags

Electronic Identification (EID) tags, also known as RFID cattle tags, contain a unique 15-digit identification number assigned to each individual animal. Think of it as a permanent identification number that stays with the animal for life.

Unlike traditional visual ear tags, RFID tags communicate electronically with compatible readers. Because the technology is passive, no batteries are required. When scanned, the RFID chip instantly transmits the animal’s identification number to a handheld reader, panel reader, scale head, or herd management software.

This technology allows producers to quickly record:

• Individual animal identification
• Vaccination history
• Deworming records
• Breeding dates
• Pregnancy status
• Weaning weights
• Performance data
• Treatment history
• Marketing information

Understanding USDA 840 Tags vs. Manufacturer RFID Tags

Many producers recognize official USDA EID tags by their 840 prefix.

The first three digits identify the country of origin.

• 840 = United States Official Identification
• Official 840 tags require a Premises Identification Number (PIN) for purchase.
• These tags are commonly used for interstate movement and animal disease traceability.

Many cattle operations also use manufacturer-coded RFID tags that function exactly the same but do not require a PIN. For example, ALLFLEX manufacturer-coded tags begin with the prefix 982.

Both provide reliable electronic identification for herd management.

Choosing The Right RFID Equipment

Selecting the proper RFID system starts with choosing tags, readers, and applicators designed to work together.

ALLFLEX, a leader in livestock identification technology for more than three decades, offers:

• Official USDA 840 RFID tags
• Manufacturer-coded RFID tags
• Matched visual and electronic tag sets
• Tissue Sampling Units (TSU)
• Handheld RFID readers
• Panel readers
• Mobile connectivity through the ALLFLEX CONNECT app

Proper tag placement and using the correct applicator are essential for maximizing tag retention and long-term performance.

Click HERE for Allflex Tagging Products

Click HERE to order products

Click HERE for latest USDA Tagging Rules and Requirements

Feeder Cattle Sale Dates & Deadlines

July 13 – 15: Western Video Market Silver Legacy Sale

July 17: Superior Livestock Auction Video Royale Video Deadline

July 20: Northern Livestock Video Market Summer Time Classic

July 23: Western Video Market Little America Consignment Deadline

July 27 – 31: Superior Livestock Auction Video Royale Sale

July 31: Superior Livestock Auction Big Horn Classic Catalog Deadline

Featured Experts in the Cattle Industry

David McElhaney – ALLFLEX ID Infrastructure Specialist, Merck Animal Health

https://www.cattletags.com/

Follow On Facebook: @AllflexNA

Shaye Wanner – Host of Casual Cattle Conversation
https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/
Follow on Facebook: @cattleconvos

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Industry References, Partners and Resources

For additional information on industry trends, products, and services, check out these trusted resources:

American Gelbvieh Association: https://gelbvieh.org/

EquineMarket.Com: https://www.equinemarket.com/

Imogene Ingredients: https://www.imogeneingredients.com/

Jorgensen Land & Cattle: https://jorgensenfarms.com/#/?ranchchannel=view

LivestockMarket.Com: https://www.livestockmarket.com/

RanchChannel.Com: https://ranchchannel.com/

RFD-TV: https://www.rfdtv.com/

Rural Radio Network: https://www.ruralradio147.com/

Sire Buyer: https://www.sirebuyer.com/

Westway Feed Products: https://westwayfeed.com/

Wrangler: https://www.wrangler.com/