If you want to protect your merchandise from thieves, an EAS system is the best place to start. Just by having one, you will show thieves that you are a store that is taking loss prevention seriously and deter many of the non-professional thieves. However, to deal with the more experienced shoplifters you need to combine an EAS system with either EAS labels or EAS tags. Both will trigger a compatible EAS system if anyone attempts to bring an active tagged item out of your store without purchasing, but which one works best? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer as it depends on the unique circumstances of each store. 
Let us start with labels. For those who are not familiar, EAS labels are thin adhesive security devices that trigger a compatible EAS system when active and brought into the detection zone. You typically use EAS labels by sticking them to an item the same way you would attach a sticker. EAS labels come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You can browse plain, barcode and specialty security labels in the current Labels collection.
Some of the pros of EAS labels are:
- They are easy to deactivate when used with the correct frequency. For RF 8.2MHz labels, a compatible RF label deactivator is used at the point of sale.
- They are well suited to high-volume merchandise because many label formats are sold in rolls of hundreds or thousands.
- EAS labels are easy to attach to many packaged products.
Some of the cons of EAS labels are:
- Placement matters. Metal, foil, liquids and highly curved surfaces can affect some label technologies, so the product, label type and frequency should be matched appropriately.
- EAS labels are generally single-use items, so they need to be replenished as inventory is sold.
Tags, like labels, are designed to work with compatible EAS detection systems but are normally reusable and come in many shapes and attachment styles. Some are designed for bottle protection, while others are self-alarming tags that can provide an additional alarm if tampered with. Tags can be attached using pins, lanyards and other accessories, while other designs use cables or wraps. No matter which style is chosen, the frequency and detacher must be compatible with the tag.
Some of the pros of EAS tags are:
- They are reusable. EAS hard tags can often be used repeatedly when they remain undamaged and are handled correctly.
- EAS Tags are very noticeable and can provide a visible deterrent.
- The variety offered by tags allows you to match the protection to the merchandise. For example, liquor retailers can browse bottle tags and bottle locks designed for wine and spirits.
Some of the cons of EAS tags are:
- They can be more time-consuming to attach to items than labels.
- EAS tags also take an extra step at the cash register because a compatible detacher is used to remove the tag.
As you can see, the decision of whether to use tags or labels comes down to what kind of products your business stocks, your EAS frequency and the way merchandise is handled at checkout. Many stores use a combination: labels for packaged goods and hard tags for merchandise such as apparel or specialty items.