Where to place a QR code so people scan it
A good code in the wrong spot gets zero visits. Three conditions for success and places that are proven to work.
Three conditions
- People have time — they are waiting, sitting or queuing, not walking past.
- The benefit is clear — a line next to the code says what happens after scanning.
- The camera is easy to aim — at eye or hand level, well lit, no glare.
Places that work
| Place | What to offer |
|---|---|
| Café table | Menu, Wi-Fi, review |
| Checkout queue | Loyalty programme, social media |
| Bill folder, receipt | Review, tips |
| Product packaging | Instructions, reorder |
| Fitting room | Size chart, other colors |
| Shop window | Sale catalogue |
| Reception, waiting area | Booking, price list, Wi-Fi |
| Business card | Save contact |
| Event badge | Profile, contacts |
| Bus stop, elevator | Promotion, event |
| Handouts | Slides, files |
| Last slide of a talk | Materials and contacts |
Places that do not work
- Roadside billboards — drivers will not scan while moving.
- Places without mobile internet, if the code opens a website.
- Too high or too low — near the ceiling or the floor.
- The outside of moving vehicles.
Always add a call to action: “Menu”, “Guest Wi-Fi”, “10% off in the app”. A code without a label looks like a technical mark and gets ignored.
FAQ
How many codes can I place side by side?
Ideally one. If you need several actions, make a landing page with choices or put the codes in different spots.
How do I know if a spot works?
Make a separate code with a UTM tag for each spot and compare visits in your analytics.