QR Code on a Flyer: Size, Placement, and What to Link
Most flyer QR codes either can't be scanned (too small) or lead somewhere disappointing. Here's how to avoid both mistakes.
A QR code on a flyer can do two things: convert an interested passerby into a customer, or be completely ignored. The difference usually comes down to three variables — size, placement, and where it goes. Most flyer QR codes get at least one of these wrong.
Size: the one mistake that kills scan rates
The most common flyer QR mistake is making it too small. A QR code that looks proportionate on screen often prints too small to scan reliably.
Minimums by flyer format:
- A6 / postcard (105 × 148mm): 25mm × 25mm minimum, 30mm recommended
- A5 (148 × 210mm): 30mm × 30mm minimum, 35–40mm recommended
- A4 / US Letter: 35mm × 35mm minimum, 45mm+ recommended
- Poster (A3 or larger): 50mm+ — people scan from further away
These assume the QR is being scanned at reading distance (30–40cm). Outdoor flyers on notice boards get scanned at arm's length — go bigger. The full reference table is in the QR code size guide.
Also critical: the quiet zone. Leave at least 4 white modules of padding around the QR. Printing text or design elements into the quiet zone breaks scanning. If your design is tight, give the QR its own white-background box.
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Placement: where people actually look
People scan QR codes when they've already decided the flyer is interesting. Place the QR where attention lands after reading the key message — not at the top (where they haven't committed yet) and not buried in small print at the bottom.
The sweet spot for most flyer layouts:
- Bottom third of the flyer, near or below the main call to action
- Next to or below a compelling line like “Book now” or “Get 20% off your first order”
- Clearly labelled — “Scan to book”, “Scan to see the menu”, “Scan for the full programme”
For two-sided flyers: the QR goes on the side with less text — usually the back. A reader who flips the flyer has demonstrated more interest and is more likely to scan.
Never put the QR in a corner if the flyer will be pinned to a notice board — corners often get covered by the pin or fold.
What to link
The QR destination needs to match the intent on the flyer. Common use cases:
Event flyers
Link to an event page with the full details, a map, and a way to RSVP or buy tickets. Don't link to a homepage — send them directly to the event. See: QR codes for events.
Restaurant and café flyers
Link to the menu, a booking form, or your Google Business profile. If you're running a promotion, link to a page that explains the offer and makes it easy to redeem. See: QR code menus for restaurants.
Service business flyers
Link to a booking page, a “contact us” form, or a WhatsApp chat link. The fewer steps between scanning and enquiring, the more conversions you get. A WhatsApp QR works particularly well for service businesses.
Retail and e-commerce
Link to a specific product, collection, or discount landing page — not your homepage. If the flyer says “20% off this weekend,” the QR should go to a page that applies the discount automatically or explains it immediately.
Social media
If the goal is followers, link to a bio page with all your channels rather than a single platform. See: QR code for your bio link.
Paper finish affects scan reliability
Glossy paper creates glare that can prevent scanning in certain lighting conditions, especially outdoors. Matte or silk finishes scan more reliably. If your flyer must be glossy, slightly increase the QR size as a buffer.
Print a test sheet before your full run. Scan it under the lighting conditions where the flyer will actually be — different from the lighting in your home or office. A QR that scans fine on your desk might fail under fluorescent retail lighting or dim venue lighting.
One QR per flyer
Multiple QR codes on a single flyer confuse people. Readers don't know which to scan and end up scanning none. If you have multiple destinations (booking, social, menu), use a bio link page and encode that single URL. One QR, everything behind it.