You can track scans of a free static QR code by adding UTM parameters to the link before creating the code, for example yoursite.com/offer?utm_source=flyer&utm_medium=qr&utm_campaign=eid_sale. Every scan that opens the page then shows up in Google Analytics under that source, medium and campaign, so you can see which flyer, poster or table card brings visitors and sales, without paying for a dynamic QR service.
- UTM tags label a link so analytics knows where the visit came from.
- Use utm_medium=qr for all QR codes, and different sources or campaigns for each placement.
- Create one QR per placement to compare results.
- You measure visits, not raw scans, which is what matters for business.
- Generate the tagged QR free with the QR Code Generator.
Which flyer actually worked?
Picture a coaching centre that prints three things for its new batch: flyers handed out near a university, posters at bus stops and leaflets inside newspapers. All three have the same QR code. Admissions go up, but nobody knows which placement worked, so next season they spend the same money on all three again.
With three slightly different QR codes, each tagged with its own source, the answer would have been on one screen in Google Analytics.
The UTM parameters you need
| Parameter | What it means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| utm_source | Where the code is placed | flyer, poster, menu, packaging |
| utm_medium | The channel type | qr |
| utm_campaign | The promotion or season | eid_sale, admission_2026 |
| utm_content (optional) | A specific version or location | busstop_mirpur, table_card |
Step by step
- Pick the landing pageA page on your own site that matches the offer, for example /admission.
- Build the tagged URLAdd the parameters:
/admission?utm_source=poster&utm_medium=qr&utm_campaign=admission_2026. Google’s Campaign URL Builder can help. - Create a QR for each placementChange only utm_source or utm_content between versions.
- Keep a simple sheetNote which code went where and how many were printed.
- Check Google AnalyticsIn GA4, look at Traffic acquisition and filter by session medium “qr” or by campaign.
- Compare and decideVisits, enquiries and sales per placement, divided by printing cost.
Measuring results that matter
- Visits: how many people scanned and opened the page.
- Engagement: time on page, scroll, clicks on WhatsApp or call buttons.
- Conversions: form submissions, orders or bookings, if you track them as key events in GA4.
- Cost per result: printing and distribution cost divided by conversions.
Limits to know
- Some people scan but close the page before it loads, so analytics shows slightly fewer visits than scans.
- Visitors who block analytics cookies may not be counted.
- If the link has a typo, tracking breaks. Test every code before printing.
Related guides
See static vs dynamic QR codes and QR code size and print guidelines. For paid campaigns, our AI Ad Strategist helps plan budgets and tracking.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Can I track a static QR code?
Yes. Add UTM parameters to the link before creating the QR code, and visits will appear in Google Analytics under that source, medium and campaign.
What UTM tags should I use for QR codes?
Use utm_medium=qr for all codes, utm_source for the placement (flyer, poster, menu) and utm_campaign for the promotion.
Where do I see QR scans in Google Analytics 4?
Open Traffic acquisition and filter by session medium qr or by campaign name.
Why does analytics show fewer visits than scans?
Some people close the page before it loads or block analytics cookies, so not every scan is counted.
Do I need a dynamic QR code to track scans?
No. UTM-tagged static QR codes plus Google Analytics are enough for most businesses.
Create QR codes that never expire, in your own colours, and download them as PNG.
Guides for this tool
Guide · 3 min readHow to Create a QR Code for Free (and Make Sure It Always Scans)
Guide · 3 min readQR Codes for Business: 15 Smart Ways to Use Them
Guide · 3 min readStatic vs Dynamic QR Codes: Which One Should You Use?
Guide · 3 min readHow to Make a Wi-Fi QR Code (Guests Join Without Typing the Password)Want a tool, website or app like this for your business?
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