A method of archiving media includes replacement of non-RFID labels with RFID labels without the risk of misplacing media items or mislabeling the same. The method includes receiving a work order and a plurality of media items identified by the work order. Then, on a one-by-one basis, each media item is scanned, with a scanning device, such that information from a non-RFID label, e.g., a bar code label, attached to one of the media items can be delivered to a control device. The control device then creates, with an RFID label printer, a unique encoded RFID label corresponding to the non-RFID label scanned by the scanning device. The unique encoded RFID label can include a data field having a cart identifier to which the scanning device and the RFID label printer are attached and a serial number. An operator or machine then removes the non-RFID label and attaches the RFID label where the non-RFID label was previously located. The media item can then be archived. Methods for auditing the archival system are also included.