Static QR Codes in Marketing: What Works
Marketing QR codes work best when they encode a short, stable URL that the campaign can track via UTM parameters. The URL is static (baked into the code), but the page it leads to can be updated or redirected at any time.For a campaign using PDFBucket's QR generator, the typical setup:
- Create a campaign landing page URL:
https://yoursite.com/campaign-summer-2026 - Add UTM parameters:
?utm_source=qr&utm_medium=print&utm_campaign=summer26 - Generate a static QR code from this URL
- All scans appear in Google Analytics as
source=qr, medium=print
Print Design Guidelines
| Viewing distance | Minimum code size |
|---|---|
| Smartphone arm length (~50 cm) | 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm |
| Table read (~60-80 cm) | 3-4 cm x 3-4 cm |
| Standing at a counter (~1 m) | 5-7 cm x 5-7 cm |
| Outdoor signage (~2 m) | 10-15 cm x 10-15 cm |
Every QR code needs at least 4 modules of white space on all four sides. Do not bleed your design elements into this border.
Placements That Convert
Restaurant menus: A table card (10x15 cm stand-up) works better than embedded in a full table menu. Include a brief text label: 'Scan to view our digital menu.'Business cards: A vCard QR code in the bottom corner (at least 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm) saves contacts' effort. Without a label, most people do not scan.
Product packaging: A QR code to a setup guide, warranty registration, or product video can significantly reduce support contacts. Print on the side panel — not the bottom.
Adding UTM Parameters for Analytics
For a multi-placement campaign, create different QR codes for each placement:``
https://yoursite.com/offer?utm_source=qr_businesscard&utm_campaign=june26
https://yoursite.com/offer?utm_source=qr_eventbooth&utm_campaign=june26
https://yoursite.com/offer?utm_source=qr_packaging&utm_campaign=june26
``
In Google Analytics, the utm_source dimension shows which physical placement drove the most conversions.