How to Track QR Code Scans
You printed the QR code, put it on a flyer, a menu or a shop window, and now you wonder: does anyone actually scan it? Tracking gives you the answer. Here is how scan tracking works and how to use the numbers to get better results.
Why You Should Track QR Code Scans
Without data, a QR code is a guess. Tracking shows which placements work, which days bring the most scans and whether a campaign is worth repeating. It also helps you justify the budget: you can show how often a printed ad led to a scan.
How scan tracking works in QR-ZY
A static QR code contains the final link directly, so the scan goes straight to the page and nothing is recorded on the way. A dynamic QR code points to a short link that registers the scan first and then forwards the person to your page. That is why tracking, and the option to change the destination later, need a dynamic code.
This describes QR-ZY’s built-in statistics. A static website link can still carry UTM tags and appear in the destination website’s own analytics.
How to Set Up Tracking in 3 Steps
- Open QR-ZY, sign in and create a dynamic QR for a supported type, such as a link, menu or PDF. Dynamic codes and scan analytics require active Pro or Business access; not every QR type supports dynamic mode.
- Download it and place it where people will see it.
- Open your dashboard to see the scans, including daily statistics. Create a separate code for each placement so you can compare them.
What to Measure
A scan counts an opening of the dynamic link, including repeat visits and your own checks. Unique scans are an estimate based on hashed network identifiers; anonymous scans without an identifier are grouped together. Use a separate code for each placement.
Scroll the table sideways to see every column.
| Metric | What it tells you | What to do with it |
|---|---|---|
| Total scans | How much attention the code gets | Compare campaigns and placements |
| Scans per day | When people scan | Plan promotions around peak days |
| Estimated unique scans | An estimate of distinct visitors, not an exact headcount | Compare it with total scans to understand repeat use |
| Scans per placement | Which location works best | Move budget to the best performer |
| Conversions after the scan | Whether scans turn into results | Add UTM tags and check Google Analytics |
Tips to Get Cleaner Data
Use one QR code per placement, for example one for the flyer and another for the table tent. Add UTM parameters to the destination link so Google Analytics shows sales or sign-ups from each code. Tell people why to scan, because a clear call to action such as "Scan for the menu" can noticeably raise the number of scans.
UTM tags identify traffic sources. To see sales or sign-ups, set up Google Analytics and the relevant key events on your own destination website; QR-ZY does not configure them for you.
For example: utm_source=qr, utm_medium=offline, utm_campaign=autumn, utm_content=flyer.
QR Tracking Checklist
- Choose a dynamic QR code, not a static one
- Create a separate code for each placement
- Add UTM parameters to the destination link
- Add a clear call to action next to the code
- Review the statistics weekly and act on them