QR codes are back—and this time, they actually make sense. Once limited to warehouses and clunky marketing experiments, they’re now a simple, effective tool for businesses of all sizes. If you’re wondering how to use QR codes or whether your business needs one, the answer is yes. And here’s why.
A QR code for business connects your offline and online worlds. It lets customers pay, browse, book or follow instantly, from their phones. It’s contactless, cost-effective and works whether you’re running a brick-and-mortar shop or an online brand.
From product packaging to storefronts to social posts, QR codes make printed materials interactive. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to use them well, so you get real results, not just another tech sticker.
- A QR code is a scannable image that links print to digital actions like websites, payments or contact info.
- Businesses use QR codes across marketing and operations, from packaging and posters to payments and inventory.
- Create QR codes using a generator, customizing them with a designer or directly in VistaPrint’s editor.
- Best practices for using QR codes for business include keeping designs clean, linking to mobile-friendly pages, testing before printing, ensuring link security and tracking performance with analytics.
What is a QR code and how does it work?
A QR code is a square graphic made up of black-and-white blocks that stores information, most often a website link. It functions like a barcode but holds more data and can be scanned from any angle. When someone points their phone camera at it, the code triggers a link, message or action on screen.
Unlike older tech that relied on clunky apps, most smartphones today scan QR codes straight from the camera. This makes them easy to use in real-world settings—at your checkout counter, on packaging or in a flyer.
For small businesses, that simplicity unlocks real opportunities. QR codes can drive traffic, collect reviews, promote events, share contact details or track offline marketing. We’ll get into where and how to use them shortly. But first, here’s what’s going on inside that square.
Basic anatomy of a QR code for business
Source: via QR Tiger
While QR codes look like random patterns, they follow a precise structure. Here’s what each part does, without getting overly technical:
- Quiet zone: The clear margin around the code. It ensures scanners can detect where the code starts.
- Finder pattern: The three big squares in the corners that help the scanner recognize and orient the code correctly.
- Alignment marker: A smaller square that ensures the code reads accurately, even when it’s printed on curved or uneven surfaces.
- Timing pattern: A line of alternating blocks that defines the grid layout for the scanner.
- Version information: A small data set that tells the scanner which format it’s working with.
- Data cells: These tiny blocks contain the actual content, whether that’s a URL, text or contact info.
You don’t need to memorize these parts or build one manually. But if you’re customizing a code or planning to print it on packaging, signage or anything that moves, knowing the basics helps you avoid design choices that could make it unscannable.
How to get a QR code for business?
You’ve seen what goes into a QR code—those patterns aren’t random. Every square, dot and gap has a job to do. So no, you can’t just fire up Photoshop and start doodling, hoping it magically works. Unless you’ve mastered encoding rules and error correction levels, you’ll need a generator to handle the heavy lifting.
The good news? You’ve got options. Whether you need a quick code for a pop-up flyer or a fully branded version for packaging, there’s a tool (or workflow) that fits.
Here are the most common ways to get a QR code for your business.
Using a QR code generator
Most QR codes start with a generator—an online tool that turns a URL, file or snippet of text into a scannable graphic. Some are free, others come with paid tiers offering more advanced features.
Free tools work well for basic, one-off codes. Paste a link, download the graphic, done. But if you need analytics, editable links or design flexibility, a paid option is the better choice, especially if QR codes are part of your broader marketing strategy.
Here’s a list of considerations for choosing a QR code generator for your business:
- Can you customize the color and add your logo?
- Does it let you create dynamic codes (so you can update the destination later)?
- Is the output high-resolution and print-ready?
- Does it support vector formats like .SVG (for scaling on signage)?
- Can you track the performance of the generated QR code?
- Are there usage limits, watermarks or expiration dates?
If you want a reliable and flexible starting point, VistaCreate’s free QR code generator does the job well. It’s beginner-friendly, lets you tweak the design and the files are ready for both digital and print use. You can:
- Link to almost anything—a website, social media page, app download, vCard, Google review, even a Wi-Fi network
- Adjust colors with brand presets or manual color pickers for full control
- Upload images, including your logo, to place inside the code
- Customize the shapes of the corners and dots to make your QR code feel more “you” and less generic
Designing the QR code yourself or with a designer
Just to be crystal clear here, you’re not designing a QR code from scratch. But you can take a generated code and give it a visual upgrade, especially if you’re working with a designer or need it to match your brand identity.
An example of a custom QR code for business; Source: Carl van Wijk via Pinterest
Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure brand alignment: Use your brand color palette, fonts and visual style in the QR code design. Subtle tweaks—like custom frames or callouts—can help your code blend naturally into a brochure or label.
- Add logos and icons: Embedding your logo in the center of the code can reinforce brand recognition (just don’t let it block any critical parts of the code).
- Customize without compromising readability: Use high contrast and avoid overcomplicating the design. Style is great—until it stops scanning.
- Always test the code: Before you hit print, scan your code on a few devices. Check that it loads quickly and works at the size you plan to use.
Using VistaPrint’s built-in QR code generator (most efficient option!)
Generating a QR code, downloading it, dropping it into your design, uploading that to a printer—it’s not hard, exactly, but it adds up fast. Do that a few dozen times and you’re deep in copy-paste fatigue.
If you’re looking to create a QR code to put on print marketing materials, there’s a simpler way to do it with VistaPrint, right inside the design editor.
Here’s how it works:
- Choose the product you want to customize (flyer, business card, sticker, you name it)
- In the editor, go to the QR-codes tab and paste the URL you want your code to point to
- A QR code is generated on the spot, instantly
- Edit the QR code design, changing the appearance of dots and borders, and add an icon to the QR code (optional)
- Drag, resize, align just like any design element
- Order your prints and you’re done; code included, ready to scan
How to use QR codes: Most popular use cases for QR codes for businesses
QR codes have come a long way from being just a novelty on event posters. Today, they’re part of how modern businesses connect, communicate and operate, quietly powering everything from customer engagement to backend processes.
Whether you’re trying to drive sales or reduce manual steps in daily workflows, QR codes can help. Below, we break down the most practical ways to use them in marketing and business operations, so you can skip the gimmicks and focus on what actually works.
How to use QR codes in marketing
QR codes make marketing materials work harder. They bridge offline assets—things like print ads, packaging, signage—with digital destinations that are easier to update, track, and personalize. That means every flyer, sticker or business card you hand out becomes a live, scannable link to your brand.
If you’re exploring how to market your small business, these are some of the most practical, high-impact ways to use QR codes in your strategy.
Business cards
There’s only so much you can squeeze onto a 3.5″ x 2″ card, but a QR code opens it up. Whether it’s your personal card or one for your business, adding a scannable link helps bridge the gap between first contact and next step.
For personal cards, QR codes can lead to your portfolio, website, digital business card (vCard) or social media profiles. If you’re linking to multiple platforms, pair each code with a familiar icon—Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube—so it’s clear what’s behind the scan.
To keep things simple, use a service like Linktree or Taplink to combine all your links into one clean landing page, then generate a single QR code that covers everything.
For company business cards, think about what would be most useful to the customer. A QR code can link to your location on Google Maps for easier navigation, your website to place an order or even a booking page to reserve a table or service.
Stickers and labels
QR codes on stickers and labels turn everyday surfaces into digital access points, whether they’re part of your product packaging or handed out for promotion.
On packaging, they go beyond branding or ingredients. Link to instructions, recipes, styling tips, care guides or allergy info—whatever adds value and helps customers get more from the product. These extras can boost retention, especially for beauty, wellness and food brands. And since QR codes take up minimal space, you can deliver all that without cluttering your label.
Promotional stickers—used as giveaways, inserts or swag—can link to your website, a discount or social pages.
And here’s the bonus: people love decorating their laptops, water bottles and phone cases with good-looking stickers. If yours is well-designed and easy to scan, it won’t just reach the person you handed it to—it could grab the attention of anyone who spots it later. Free exposure, no extra effort!
Flyers, brochures and posters
Flyers and posters are built to grab attention, but attention alone isn’t the goal. A QR code turns them into conversion tools. You can link to an event registration page, coupon download, newsletter sign-up or any landing page that supports your campaign.
Place the code near your CTA and include a short caption like “Scan for 20% off” or “RSVP here.” Don’t leave people guessing where it leads.
Menus and restaurant displays
Contactless menus became the norm, but QR codes still have a role beyond hygiene. You can link to an ordering page, a feedback form or a special menu that updates seasonally without reprinting anything.
You can also use QR codes on table tents or tray liners to prompt reviews, collect emails or push loyalty signups. The key is clarity, and making sure the scan leads to something the customer actually wants.
Packaging
Packaging design with a QR code for business by StanBranding via 99designs by Vista
The unboxing moment plays a key role in package marketing, and QR codes make it count.
- Want to drive repeat purchases? Add a QR code that links to a discount for their next order.
- Launching a loyalty program? Make sign-up a one-scan process, right from the package.
- Need a way to keep customers engaged after they buy? Use a QR code to send them to personalized offers, thank-you pages or how-to content directly from your packaging.
Event signage
At a busy event, no one wants to dig through a printed program or flag down staff for info. A QR code on your signage solves that. It can link to a schedule, speaker bios, session locations or even real-time updates if plans change.
You can also use QR codes for check-ins, badge pickups or post-event surveys. Just make sure the code is placed at eye level and large enough to scan from a short distance.
Retail displays
Shoppers scan QR codes on retail displays to get styling tips, watch product demos, view promotions or sign up for restock alerts. It’s a low-effort way to enrich the in-store experience, without extra staff or cluttered signage.
A display next to a new clothing line could link to a quick styling guide or a limited-time offer. In a cosmetics area, QR codes might lead to how-to videos, ingredient breakdowns or real customer reviews.
The goal is simple: give people the right context (or incentive) right when they’re ready to decide.
How to use QR codes in business operations
Not just for marketing, QR codes can make everyday operations faster, cleaner and easier to manage, too. Whether you’re trying to reduce friction for customers or streamline internal workflows, a well-placed code can save time and cut down on repetitive tasks.
Here are some practical, no-fluff ways to use QR codes for business behind the scenes.
Customer service
Instead of asking customers to search your website for answers, give them a direct route. QR codes can link to your help center, return policy, contact form or a detailed FAQ page. Add one to a receipt, packing slip or product tag to make post-purchase support easy to find, and even easier to use.
WiFi access
No one likes typing in a long, case-sensitive Wi-Fi password, especially on mobile. QR codes let customers connect instantly.
Whether you run a café, salon, coworking space or showroom, display a scan-to-join code near the entrance or checkout. It’s a small touch that improves the customer experience with zero extra effort on your part.
Payments
For service-based businesses or mobile vendors, QR codes make payments quick and seamless. Link to your UPI, PayPal or Stripe checkout page so customers can pay instantly—no card reader, no app download, no awkward delays. They scan, they pay, you’re done.
Inventory management
QR codes aren’t just for customer-facing experiences. Use them internally to track inventory, equipment or supplies. Staff can scan items in and out, log updates or check status without having to type product IDs manually. It’s a small change that adds up fast in busy environments.
How to use a QR Code – Step-by-step for customers
Here’s what happens when someone scans your QR code:
- They open the camera app on their smartphone
- Point it at the QR code—no need to take a photo
- A notification appears on screen
- They tap it, and the link opens in their browser or app
That’s it. No special app required on most modern phones.
Best practices for QR code usage
QR codes are one of the most versatile tools in modern marketing and operations. They work across industries, across formats and for businesses of all sizes. But like any tool, they only perform well if they’re used correctly. A badly placed or broken code doesn’t just miss the mark; it can hurt your credibility.
To make sure your QR codes deliver on their promise (and don’t end up ignored or unscannable), follow these best practices.
Ensure proper design and placement
A QR code needs to be functional before it can be effective. That starts with clean design and smart placement.
- Leave white space around the code. This “quiet zone” helps scanners recognize the boundaries.
- Size matters. A small code on a large poster won’t cut it. Match the size to the viewing distance—bigger displays need bigger codes.
- Always include a call to action. Don’t assume people will scan out of curiosity. A simple prompt like “Scan to order” or “Scan for details” can make all the difference.
Create a great user experience
Getting someone to scan is just step one. What happens next should be fast, clear and mobile-friendly.
- Link to pages that are optimized for mobile—small screens, big buttons, no pop-up chaos.
- Keep landing pages lightweight and quick to load. A delay of even a few seconds can kill interest.
- Use trackable URLs with UTM parameters so you can monitor how your QR codes are performing.
And don’t forget: The better you are at finding your target audience, the more relevant that destination page will be, so the scan actually leads to action.
Test the QR code before putting it on your print marketing materials
This step often gets skipped. And it shouldn’t.
Before printing anything, test your code thoroughly. Scan it with both iOS and Android phones, check it under different lighting conditions and make sure the link loads properly. Small mistakes get expensive fast when you’re printing in bulk.
Keep your QR codes safe and secure
QR codes are safe by design, but the destination matters.
Always verify the links you’re using and avoid redirecting to unknown or third-party pages you haven’t vetted. Customers are far more likely to scan a QR code from a business they know and trust, so brand visibility plays a key role in usage.
Only use trusted tools, like VistaPrint’s built-in QR code generator or well-established platforms. And if you’re linking to a sensitive action, like payments or account info, double-check that the page is secure (HTTPS, not HTTP).
Track QR code performance
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Tracking performance helps you align your QR codes with your business goals and make data-driven decisions.
Start with the basics:
- Number of scans
- Location, device type and time of day
- Bounce rate or drop-off on landing pages
Use Google Analytics with UTM-tagged URLs for campaign tracking, or try third-party QR tools with built-in dashboards.
Create different QR codes for each campaign or print material. That way, you’ll know exactly what’s working and what needs a tweak.
Future trends in QR code tech
QR codes have become a staple in business, but the tech isn’t standing still. New features and integrations are expanding what these little squares can do, far beyond just linking to a website. If you’re thinking about how QR codes will fit into your business in the coming years, here’s what to keep an eye on.
Dynamic QR codes
Unlike static codes, dynamic QR codes can be edited after printing. That means if your URL changes or you want to redirect people to a new offer, you don’t have to reprint anything. It’s a time-saver, especially for seasonal campaigns or materials used across multiple locations.
Augmented reality integrations
QR codes are starting to act as entry points into AR experiences—think virtual try-ons, 3D product demos or interactive instructions. Instead of just sending someone to a page, you’re offering an experience they can engage with through their camera.
Smart packaging
More brands are combining QR codes with NFC tags and environmental data to build what’s known as smart packaging. A single scan can now show recycling instructions, product origin stories or details about materials and sourcing. It’s a growing space, especially for businesses looking to boost transparency and trust.
Social media integrations
QR codes are increasingly linking directly to native actions on social platforms. You can now set up codes that open an Instagram Reel, auto-follow your TikTok profile or launch a direct message. It’s a fast track to boosting engagement where your audience already hangs out.
Voice or AI prompts
With smart assistants like Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant becoming more common in business settings, QR codes are being paired with voice or AI-based prompts. For example, a scan might launch a voice-guided tutorial or trigger a chatbot to answer FAQs. This adds another layer of interactivity without adding friction.
As these features become more widely available, expect QR codes to shift from being simple tools to smarter touchpoints across your entire customer journey.
Ready to make QR codes a part of your marketing strategy?
QR codes give your business a low-effort way to connect the dots between print and digital. They help customers act fast, whether that means placing an order, watching a video or finding your location. And they’re just as useful behind the scenes, streamlining payments, customer service and inventory tasks.
You’ve seen how flexible they are. You’ve seen where they fit—on business cards, packaging, posters, signage, menus and more. Creating and using QR codes takes minutes. The impact lasts much longer.
