Can you imprint a QR code onto the product I select?
Absolutely — we can add a QR code to the majority of our products. A QR code turns any promotional item into a live marketing channel: one scan connects your recipient to your website, a special offer, a video, contact info, or anywhere else you want to take them.
QR code scans in marketing grew 323% between 2021 and 2023 — and over 89 million Americans scan them regularly. Your promotional product is already in someone's hand. A QR code makes it work harder.
Everything You Need to Know
What Can a QR Code Link To?
QR codes aren't just for websites. Your branded power banks, totes, or mugs can point recipients to virtually any digital destination:
Your Website
Homepage, product page, or landing page
Special Offers
Discounts, coupons, or exclusive promotions
Contact Info
Digital business card (vCard)
Video Content
Product demos, testimonials, tutorials
Social Media
LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook profiles
Event Registration
Sign-up forms, calendars, RSVP pages
Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes — Which Should You Use?
Not all QR codes work the same way. Choosing the right type matters — especially on a printed promotional item that you can't reprint easily.
Static QR Code
The destination URL is baked into the code itself. Once printed, it cannot be changed. Simple and free to generate — but inflexible.
Best for: Permanent destinations like a homepage or contact page that won't change.
Dynamic QR Code — Recommended
The code points to a short redirect link. You can update the destination anytime without reprinting. Also prints cleaner and smaller. Dynamic codes commanded 65% of QR market share in 2024.
Best for: Campaigns, seasonal offers, anything that may evolve after printing.
Size & Scanning Requirements
The imprint area of the product determines whether a QR code is viable — and how well it will scan. Here's what we look for:
Minimum Viable Size
0.8" × 0.8"
(approx. 2 × 2 cm) — scannable at close range, typically handheld
The 10:1 Rule
For every 10 inches of scanning distance, the QR code needs to be at least 1 inch wide. A product held in hand? 0.8" works. A table display scanned from 2 feet? Aim for 2.4" or larger.
Important: QR codes also require a clear "quiet zone" — a blank border around all four edges equal to about 4 times the width of one module. Crowding a QR code against your logo or artwork can cause scanning failures. We'll handle proper placement when we build your proof.
Dark on light. Black on white delivers the highest contrast (21:1) and the most reliable scans. A minimum 4:1 contrast ratio is required.
Vector file format. Always supply or generate your QR code as an SVG or EPS — never a low-res PNG or screenshot.
Flat surfaces. Curved surfaces like mugs or bottles can distort the pattern. We'll advise on placement to maximize scannability.
Add a call to action. "Scan for 10% off" or "Scan to learn more" dramatically increases engagement — don't leave a bare code unexplained.
Avoid inverted colors. Light-colored codes on dark backgrounds are frequently unreadable by Android scanners even when they appear fine to the eye.
Don't overload static codes. Long URLs packed into a static code make the pattern dense and harder to scan. Use a short URL or go dynamic.
How to Get Your QR Code on Your Order
Already Have a QR Code?
Send it to us at orders@saveyourink.com as an SVG or EPS file, along with your order number. We'll incorporate it into your virtual proof for approval before anything prints.
Need Us to Create One?
No problem. Just tell us where you want the QR code to point — a URL, phone number, vCard, or anything else — and we'll generate it and include it in your proof at no extra charge.
Ready to add a QR code to your order?Reach out and we'll make sure it's sized correctly, scans reliably, and looks great on your proof.
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