How to Track QR Code Scans: The Complete Analytics Guide

Static QR codes don't have built-in tracking, but you can measure their performance using UTM parameters, link shorteners, and analytics platforms. This guide explains three proven methods for tracking QR code campaigns.

Key Takeaway

The most reliable way to track static QR code scans is to add UTM parameters to the destination URL and monitor them in Google Analytics. Our Campaign URL Builder makes this easy.

Method 1: UTM Parameters

UTM parameters are tags appended to a URL that Google Analytics recognizes. When a user scans a QR code and visits the tagged URL, the traffic is attributed to the specific campaign.

Example URL with UTM tags:

https://example.com/promo?utm_source=qr&utm_medium=print&utm_campaign=summer_sale&utm_content=flyer_a

Use our QR Campaign URL Builder to generate UTM-tagged URLs, then create a QR code from the result.

Method 2: Link Shorteners

Link shorteners like Bitly, Short.io, and Rebrandly provide click tracking by default. Create a shortened link, then encode it in a QR code. The shortener dashboard shows scan counts, geographic data, and device types.

Method 3: Dynamic QR Codes

Dynamic QR codes use a redirect URL that you control. The redirect server logs every scan with timestamps, location, and device data. This is the most powerful tracking method but requires a backend service or a dynamic QR platform.

What to Measure

Total scans: how many times the QR code was scanned
Unique scans: how many individual users scanned
Scan time: when scans happen (peak hours, days)
Location: where scans originate (useful for multi-location campaigns)
Device type: iOS vs Android vs desktop
Conversion rate: scans that lead to a desired action (purchase, signup, review)

Best Practices

Use unique UTM parameters for each placement (e.g., utm_content=table_tent_a vs utm_content=receipt_footer)
Use consistent naming conventions across campaigns
Track conversions, not just scans — a scan without an action has limited value
A/B test different placements to find which locations drive the most scans
Review analytics weekly during active campaigns

Build a tracked QR code campaign

Use our Campaign URL Builder to add UTM tracking to your QR code URLs.

Open Campaign URL Builder