How to Put a QR Code on a Flyer
Most flyer QR codes fail for boring reasons: too small, too high on the wall, no reason to scan. Fix those three and a flyer becomes a measurable acquisition channel. You can do all of this free at liveqr.codes — no signup needed for a static code, and a one-time $1.99 upgrade unlocks unlimited dynamic codes with scan analytics.
Steps
- Decide the single action — One code, one destination. Booking, menu, discount, or signup — competing codes on the same sheet split attention and neither gets scanned.
- Size it for the reading distance — Use roughly one tenth of the expected scan distance: 2 cm for a handheld flyer, 10 cm for a code read from a metre away, 30 cm+ for a window poster.
- Place it at eye or hand height — On posters, put the code between waist and eye level. Codes above head height are physically awkward to scan and get ignored.
- Write a benefit-led caption — "Scan for 10% off tonight" beats "Scan me". State what happens and why it is worth two seconds.
- Use a dynamic code per print run — Give each design, street, or venue its own dynamic code so the scan report tells you which placement paid off — and re-point them all when the campaign ends.
- Check the landing page on mobile — The page must load in under three seconds and show the promised offer above the fold, otherwise the scan is wasted.
Pro tips
- Matte paper avoids glare under shop lighting
- Never place a code behind reflective glass at an angle
- Print a small batch and test-scan before the full run
Frequently asked questions
How big should a poster QR code be?
About one tenth of the scanning distance — a code read from two metres needs to be roughly 20 cm wide.
Can I track flyer scans?
Yes, with dynamic codes. Each code reports scan counts, dates, countries, and devices.
Should the code go on the front or back?
Front, near the offer. A code on the back of a flyer that is read once and dropped rarely gets used.
liveqr.codes is a free QR code generator. Static codes are free and unlimited with no signup; a one-time $1.99 lifetime upgrade adds unlimited dynamic codes with editable destinations and scan analytics. Download every code as a high-resolution PNG or vector SVG.