QR Code on product packaging: Increase in-store and post-purchase engagement

How to create QR Codes for product packaging

You can create QR Codes in 8 easy steps:

1. Choose a QR Code generator
2. Select the type of QR Code
3. Enter the relevant information
4. Choose between static and dynamic
5. Customize it with colors and logo
6. Generate and test the QR Code
7. Download the QR Code in PNG, SVG or EPS
8. Analyze and track scans

• STEP 1: Choose a QR Code generator

Select a QR Code generator that allows you to create QR Codes easily and download them. You can use a free QR code generator like Uniqode's and create QR Codes that are free forever with unlimited scans.

• STEP 2: Select the type of QR Code

QR Codes on product packaging can either be a Website QR Code, Video QR Code or even Coupon QR Code. Once you settle on the intention behind placing the QR Code on the packaging, you can decide what type of QR Code is right for your product.

• STEP 3: Enter the relevant information

Input all the required information. For instance, if you are making a URL QR Code, enter the URL in the QR code generator.

• STEP 4: Choose between static and dynamic

Did you know that the same QR Code can be used to display different information at various points in the day, week or month? These are known as dynamic QR Codes and serve you well for product packaging.

You can always use free static QR Codes but note that once you print them out, there is no way to change the information.

• STEP 5: Customize it with colors and logo

Black and white QR Codes are a thing of the past. You can customize your QR Codes with your branding for free with Uniqode (formerly Beaconstac). You can also add your logo in the QR Code to make it even more aesthetically pleasing.

• STEP 6: Generate and test your QR Code

Once you're satisfied with all the details, click on ‘Generate QR Code’ to create your QR Code for free. It is important to test it now before you start using it.

• STEP 7: Download it

You can download the QR Code in your preferred format - SVG, EPS or PNG.

• STEP 8: Analyze and track scans

Not only can you create a QR Code for product packaging, but you can also gauge how effective it is by tracking the number of scans by date, time and country. Uniqode (formerly Beaconstac) also allows you to retarget users who have scanned your QR Code on Google and Facebook.

Why is a QR Code on product packaging so effective?

Since scanning a QR Code does not take more than a couple of seconds, it is very simple to use QR Codes to disseminate information to the consumer.

1. Offer product information and specifications
2. Deliver coupons and relevant deals
3. Boost app downloads
4. Deliver product videos
5. Increase post-purchase engagement by allowing customers to re-order
6. Help instant checkouts with ‘scan-and-go’
7. Drive missed call marketing

What sort of product packaging can you put QR Codes on?

1. Primary Packaging:

   This is the packaging that the product comes in. The packaging could be anything from paper, carton, cardboard, plastic to glass and metal. These labels include a list of ingredients which is mandatory in the US for GMO products, date of expiry and any allergen information. These can be made colorful and alluring to make users want to scan the QR Code. Include a video QR Code, Social Media QR Codes or a Website QR Code here. You can also use primary packaging QR Codes to allow consumers to add the product to their cart while shopping for instant checkouts.

2. Secondary Packaging:

   This packaging is what the product comes in. For instance, the box that houses your medicines, shampoo or makeup. This type of packaging also needs information such as product specifications, how-to-guides and best-buy dates. You can use URL QR Codes, Social Media QR Codes, PDF QR codes or YouTube QR Codes here to disseminate such information.

3. Tertiary Packaging:

   This is usually the boxes and crates that more than one product ship in. This can still be used to reinforce the branding with a Website QR Code.

Best practices to use QR Codes on product packaging

1. Add colorful QR Codes:

   The more colorful and vibrant your QR Codes are, the more people will scan it and engage with your product.

2. Make sure it is scannable:

   Do not add colors that render the QR Code scannable. Always test the QR code before printing it out on product packaging. Also, ensure that the QR Code you print out is not too small to be scanned (at least 2 cm x 2 cm).

3. Include a compelling CTA:

   Always add a CTA that makes consumers want to scan your QR Codes.

4. Focus on placement:

   Make sure your QR Code is not placed on a fold or corner. It should be front and center and easy to spot.