Mechanical technologies work with the physical properties of materials to prevent counterfeiting and create effective anti-tampering barriers. When used alone, they perform simple authentication functions. When used in combination with other technologies, they can also perform identification and tracking functions. For example, unique identification codes may be included in a label to allow for the product to be traced.

Most mechanical solutions take the form of various different types of label, which can be classified according to their physical properties (i.e. the material used and/or the way in which they are attached to the product). Labels usually need to be authenticated via an automatic reading device, such as a barcode reader. However, for other types of mechanical solutions, such as laser engraving, authentication can be performed visually. 

The cost per item of mechanical solutions is generally medium to low and, in the specific case of labels, implementation times are very quick, as often only limited changes to the production process are required.