Power drill in hardware store with spider wrap security tag on it

Security Tags for Hardware Stores

Power tool box protected by a security wrap in a hardware store aisle

Hardware theft concentrates on the expensive shelf, power tools, cordless batteries, copper fittings, test meters. These are exactly the items that resell fastest, and they are usually boxed or carded, which makes them easy to protect well.

Start With the Technology

For a new hardware store system we typically recommend AM (58 kHz), it reads reliably around the metal and foil that fills a hardware store. If you already run pedestals, match them, Sensormatic compatible systems are AM, Checkpoint compatible systems are RF. Here is how to tell which you have, or send us a photo and we will identify it free.

What to Protect and How

AM labels on boxed goods. The Ultrastrip III DR barcode label sticks to any tool box or blister pack and deactivates at the register. The black version disappears on dark packaging.
Peg hook locks on carded merchandise. Drill bits, blades and accessories hang on peg hooks all day, a peg hook lock stops the sweep where someone clears the whole hook into a bag.
Hard tags on the rest. A clam tag (AM) clips onto tool bags, cases and soft goods without a pin, and 2 Alarm tags with lanyard loop through handles on the highest theft items and sound their own siren if tampered with.

At the Register

Labels need an AM deactivator pad at the counter, hard tags need a detacher. One of each covers a typical hardware counter.

The Complete Hardware Store Setup

Our new AM line is the Century Classic post series, start with the C2001 and C2002 dual pedestal set, or get pedestals, labels and a deactivator in one order with the EAS AM Security System Package (installation included). Wide contractor entrance? Check how many pedestals your door width needs.

Every system we sell can include professional installation by RSG certified technicians anywhere in the continental US, and systems we install carry a one year warranty. Read about nationwide EAS installation or weigh the options on self install versus professional.

Protecting a Different Kind of Store?

See our guides for Clothing Stores, Liquor Stores, Grocery Stores, Pharmacies and Dispensaries, or browse every device type on our retail anti theft devices hub.

Talk to a Person

Tell us what you sell and what is walking out the door, and we will put together the right mix of tags, labels and detection for your tool wall and your registers. Call 1-888-909-8247 or send us a note. If you want a complete priced package in about 60 seconds, answer four questions in our Security Tag System Builder, installation included.