You need a QR code. You do not need Canva, Photoshop, or a trial that dies after you print the flyers.
A static QR stores the content in the pattern. It works forever, offline, with no account. A dynamic QR stores a short URL so you can change the destination and see scans. Use static unless you know you will edit later.
Make one URL code now
Paste a link. Download PNG (everyday print) or SVG (print shop / vinyl). Keep a quiet zone around the square.
Wi-Fi, vCard, PDF, WhatsApp, UPI, and GS1 Digital Link are in the type chips on the same widget. Dedicated pages: Wi-Fi, PDF, Google review, Google Form walkthrough.
Static vs dynamic, in one line
- Poster, Wi-Fi card, personal vCard you will not change → static
- Packaging, rack labels, menu, campaign you might retarget → dynamic, on a host that does not disable codes when you cancel
Many codes at once
Warehouse bins, table numbers, asset tags: one row or cell per code in Excel. Bulk generator (100 free in the browser) or the walkthrough for rack maps.
Print rules that prevent “it will not scan”
- High contrast (near-black on near-white)
- Do not put the logo so large it eats the modules unless error correction is high
- Minimum size: roughly 2.5 cm for a phone at arm’s length; larger for walls and forklifts (calculator)
- Test iPhone and Android before you order 5,000 stickers
You do not need these
- A monthly subscription for a static URL
- A “QR scanner app” to create codes
- Per-SKU art files if one dynamic code plus a landing page will do (3PL sticker math)
To read a code someone sent as a screenshot: scan from a picture.