The hardest gap in marketing is getting someone from a physical object (a flyer, a poster, a product) to a digital action (visiting a page, signing up, buying). QR codes are the most direct way to close that gap. Here's how to use them well.
Where QR codes work in marketing
Product packaging
Labels have limited space. A QR code on packaging can link to detailed instructions, video tutorials, nutritional info, or a reorder page — content that simply doesn't fit on the box.
Events
Put a single QR code at check-in instead of printing paper schedules and brochures. Link it to the full event agenda, speaker bios, and live polls. You can update the destination URL in real time if anything changes.
Retail windows
A QR code in your shop window lets people browse or buy after hours. Someone walks past at 9pm, sees something they like, scans the code, and lands directly on the product page.
Things to get right
Size and placement
A code that's too small to scan is worse than no code at all. A simple rule: the scanning distance should be no more than 10 times the width of the code. Scanning from 10 feet away? The code needs to be at least 1 foot wide.
Always add a call to action
People don't scan a random square out of curiosity. Tell them what they'll get: "Scan for menu", "Scan to enter", "Scan to watch." A clear label makes a measurable difference in scan rates.
The landing page must work on mobile
Every QR scan happens on a phone. If the destination page isn't mobile-friendly, you've lost the conversion the moment they arrive.
Tracking results
Static QR codes don't track scans on their own, but you can add UTM parameters to the URL (e.g., yoursite.com/offer?utm_source=flyer) to see the traffic in Google Analytics. This tells you how much your physical materials are actually driving to your site.
Generate campaign codes
GetEasyQR is free and generates high-resolution codes ready for print. No account needed.
Generate Campaign QR