QR Codes on Posters & Flyers
Where to place QR codes on posters and flyers for maximum scans. Covers ideal size, contrast rules, and how to avoid common print mistakes.
Minimum size: 3 × 3 cm on flyers, 5 × 5 cm on posters
Flyers are held at arm's length — 3 cm works. Posters are scanned from 1-2 metres away, so 5 cm or larger is essential. When in doubt, go bigger.
Bottom-right or bottom-centre placement
Eye tracking studies show readers scan top-to-bottom, left-to-right. Place the QR code at the bottom with clear white space around it. The CTA text should sit directly above the code.
Always add a CTA label
"Scan for 20% off" or "Scan to book" — tell people what happens when they scan. A bare QR code on a poster gets ignored. A labelled one gets scanned.
Avoid stretching or skewing
QR codes must remain perfectly square. When designing in Canva or Illustrator, hold Shift while resizing. A stretched QR code will not scan.
Test on the actual print material
Colours shift between screen and print. Always print a proof, scan it in average indoor lighting, and check from the distance your audience will actually stand.
Use dynamic QR for time-limited promos
If your poster advertises a weekend sale, use a dynamic QR code. You can update the destination after the promo ends without reprinting the poster.