How to Track QR Code Scans and Analyze Results

QR code tracking transforms a simple black-and-white square into a powerful marketing and analytics tool. Instead of just sending users to a destination, you can measure engagement, discover where and when scans happen, and fine-tune your campaigns for maximum impact.

In this guide, we’ll cover how QR code tracking works, the metrics that matter, and the best practices for getting the most out of every scan—plus how Linkly makes the process simple and insightful.

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QR codes have exploded in popularity in recent years. They appear on:

• Product packaging
• Restaurant menus
• Event tickets
• Flyers and posters
• Email signatures
• Business cards

But without tracking, you’re flying blind. You won’t know:

• How many people engaged with your code
• Which marketing placements are most effective
• When and where engagement is highest
• Which devices your audience uses

By setting up QR code tracking, you turn every scan into actionable marketing intelligence.

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The key to tracking is using a redirect link. Instead of embedding your destination URL directly into the QR code, you:

1. Create a short, trackable link using a tool like Linkly.
2. Enable click tracking for that link.
3. Generate a QR code from the shortened link.
4. Place the QR code in your marketing material.
5. Analyze scan data in real time.

This way, every time someone scans your QR code, Linkly records essential details before sending them to your target page.

Pro Tip: With dynamic QR codes, you can change the destination URL at any time—no need to reprint your materials.

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When evaluating your QR code’s success, focus on:

The raw number of times the QR code was scanned.

Identifies how many individual users engaged with your code (important for avoiding inflated numbers from repeat scanners).

See cities, regions, and countries where scans occur. This can guide geo-targeted campaigns.

Discover your peak scan times—helpful for timing promotions.

Find out if users are on iOS, Android, or desktop.

Measure what happens after the scan—purchases, form submissions, or app downloads—by combining QR tracking with Google Analytics UTM tags or retargeting pixels.

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If you want deeper insights, consider:

• UTM Parameters
  Append UTM tags to your link for granular source/medium/campaign tracking in Google Analytics.

• Retargeting Audiences
  Add Facebook Pixel or Twitter tracking to re-engage scanners with ads.

• Multiple QR Codes for A/B Testing
  Use different codes for different locations or creatives to compare performance.

• Scan Expiry Dates
  Set expiring links to limit access after a promotion ends.

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1. Brand Your QR Codes
   Use vanity URLs and add your logo for trust and recognition.

2. Use Clear Calls-to-Action
   Add text like “Scan for 20% Off” so users know what they’ll get.

3. Test Before Printing
   Ensure the code scans easily from various distances and lighting conditions.

4. Leverage Multiple Channels
   Place codes in both physical (posters, packaging) and digital (PDFs, emails) environments.

5. Track Over Time
   Compare scan rates month-by-month to identify trends.

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With Linkly, you can:

• Create trackable, dynamic QR codes in seconds.
• View real-time scan analytics.
• Export your data as CSV for reporting.
• Integrate with Zapier to trigger actions after scans.
• Use a custom domain for branded QR links.
• Take advantage of the free plan for up to 1,000 clicks per month.

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Let’s say you run a coffee shop offering a loyalty discount via QR code on takeaway cups:

1. Create a trackable Linkly link pointing to your sign-up form.
2. Generate a QR code from that link.
3. Print the code on your cups.
4. Monitor scan rates daily.
5. See which days have the highest engagement—perhaps Friday mornings are busiest.
6. Adjust promotions accordingly.

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QR codes are more than just quick shortcuts—they can be data-rich marketing assets when tracked properly. By analyzing scans, you’ll uncover audience patterns, identify winning placements, and improve your campaigns over time.

Ready to unlock the full potential of your QR codes? Start tracking scans with Linkly today and turn every scan into actionable insight.