QR Code Generator Guide: Create Codes That Get Scanned

QR codes bridge offline and online

QR codes turn physical touchpoints — posters, packaging, business cards, event badges — into digital actions. A well-placed code removes typing friction and tracks engagement when linked to UTM parameters.

This guide covers creation, design best practices, use cases, and common mistakes that prevent scans.

How to create a QR code

Open the QR code generator on Zovaty Tools. Enter your URL, text, or contact information. Download the PNG or SVG. No account required — generation happens in your browser.

Always test the code with your phone before printing. Verify the destination URL loads correctly on both iOS and Android.

Design best practices

Minimum size: 2 × 2 cm (0.8 × 0.8 in) for close-range scanning

High contrast: dark code on light background (black on white is safest)

Quiet zone: leave white space equal to 4 modules around the code

Do not invert colors (white code on black background reduces scan reliability)

Do not overlay logos larger than 30% of the code area

Use SVG format for print; PNG for digital use

Common use cases

Marketing: link print ads to landing pages with UTM tracking. Restaurants: digital menus that update without reprinting. Events: check-in and session links on badges. WiFi: guest network credentials. Business cards: link to portfolio or LinkedIn. Product packaging: setup guides and warranty registration.

Tracking QR code performance

Append UTM parameters to your URL before generating the code: utm_source=qr, utm_medium=print, utm_campaign=event-name. Track scans in Google Analytics or your analytics platform. Compare QR traffic to other channels to justify print spend.

Mistakes that prevent scans

Codes too small for scanning distance. Low contrast colors. Linking to non-mobile-friendly pages. Broken URLs that redirect through multiple hops. Printing on curved or reflective surfaces without testing.

Related Zovaty tools

QR code generator — create codes instantly

URL encoder/decoder — build UTM URLs

Website audit — verify landing page before printing

Conclusion

QR codes work when they are scannable, link to mobile-friendly pages, and include tracking parameters. Create yours with the free QR code generator and test before printing.

Dynamic vs static QR codes

Static QR codes encode the destination URL directly in the pattern. They never expire and work forever without a service dependency. Dynamic QR codes route through a redirect service, letting you change the destination URL after printing. Dynamic codes fail if the service shuts down — prefer static for permanent print materials.

Use dynamic codes only when you genuinely need to update destinations — seasonal campaigns, A/B testing destinations, or multi-language routing. For business cards, product packaging, and permanent signage, static codes are safer.

QR code accessibility

Not every user can scan QR codes — provide the URL in text alongside the code. Ensure sufficient contrast for scanners with low-quality cameras. Test with multiple phone models and scanning apps before mass printing.

Print production specifications

For professional printing, provide SVG or PDF vector files at the exact size needed. Minimum module size depends on scanning distance: 10 meters away needs larger codes than table-tent menus. Consult your printer about minimum QR code dimensions for your specific placement.

QR codes in marketing campaigns

Track campaign performance by generating unique QR codes per channel — one for print ads, one for packaging, one for event signage. Each with distinct UTM parameters. Compare scan rates to allocate budget toward highest-performing channels.

QR codes for restaurants and retail

Digital menus via QR code became standard after 2020. Ensure menu pages are mobile-optimized and load in under two seconds. For retail, QR codes on product tags link to detailed specifications, reviews, or setup guides.

QR code error correction levels

QR codes include error correction allowing partial damage while remaining scannable. Level L (7%) for clean print. Level M (15%) for standard use. Level Q (25%) when adding logos. Level H (30%) for industrial environments.

QR analytics platforms

Dynamic QR services provide scan analytics: location, time, device type. Weigh analytics benefit against service dependency. Static codes with UTM parameters provide basic analytics through your existing web analytics.

QR codes at events and conferences

Event QR codes link to session materials, feedback forms, or networking profiles. Place codes at eye level near session exits. Include short URL text below code for manual entry backup.

Physical placement guide

Eye level for pedestrian traffic. Arm's reach for product packaging. Tabletop tent cards for restaurants. Poster bottom-right for posters (natural scan position). Never on curved surfaces without testing.

Include 'Scan to...' instruction text above every QR code. Users need context for why they should scan.

Summary: QR code best practices

High contrast. Adequate size. Test before print. Add UTM tracking. Include instruction text. Use QR code generator for free instant creation.