QR Codes or Digital Codes on Packaging: How to Increase Sales, Loyalty, and Collect Reviews

Packaging is the last physical touchpoint of a brand with the customer. This is the moment when the user is most engaged and ready for further interaction.

Using QR codes or digital scan codes on packaging is an effective strategy for deepening the connection with the buyer. They provide access to important information, services, and offers directly from the product, enhancing loyalty, trust, and the likelihood of repeat sales.

QR Code Functionality on Packaging: What the Customer Gets

Product Instructions

📖 Add video or text instructions for unpacking, using, or setting up the product. This is especially useful for complex or new products that require detailed instructions. Accessible instructions reduce the number of support queries and product returns.

Warranty Activation

📦 Automate warranty registration: scanning the code opens a form or confirmation where the customer can activate the warranty in seconds. This simplifies the process and increases trust in a brand that cares about after-sales service.

Loyalty Program

🛍 The QR code can link to the customer's personal page or bonus program. You can offer discounts for repeat purchases, loyalty points, or access to promotions. This strengthens the connection and encourages further interaction with the brand.

Feedback Collection

⭐️ Direct the customer to review platforms — Google, Rozetka, Prom, or an internal form. The post-purchase moment is ideal for receiving honest feedback. More reviews = higher trust in the brand.

Quick Contact with Support

📲 Through the QR code, the customer can quickly access a chat with a manager, find answers in the knowledge base, or send a query. This is convenient, efficient, and reduces the load on your support team.

Video Reviews and Demonstrations

🎥 Show the product in use, highlight its benefits, compare it to competitors, or provide useful tips. This builds trust and helps the potential buyer better understand the product's value.

Personalized Recommendations

🔁 After scanning, the code can lead to a page with complementary products. For example, accessories, related items, or special offers. This increases the average order value and improves the user experience.

Real Examples of QR on Packaging

🧴 Cosmetics: The code on the tube links to a video tutorial on proper product application, as well as a page with tips for achieving maximum effect.

📱 Gadgets: One scan — and the warranty is activated. No registration, no logins. The user is immediately directed to the activation confirmation, which significantly improves the experience of a new device owner.

🍫 Products: Chocolate manufacturers use QR codes to tell stories about the farms where cocoa is grown. This is not only transparency but also an emotional connection between the brand and the customer.

📦 Packages: Courier packaging with a QR code links to a "Leave a review — get a discount" page. This motivates the customer to share their feedback and return for a new order.

👟 Clothing and Footwear: The code on the label allows the customer to access a size chart, styling video examples, or instructions for washing and care.

Benefits for the Brand

Post-Purchase Interaction

✅ The QR code provides an additional touchpoint with the customer immediately after purchase. This strengthens the connection with the brand and increases the likelihood of repeat sales.

Automatic Feedback Collection

✅ Scanning the code simplifies the process of leaving feedback. The brand receives more relevant reviews, improving its online reputation.

Continuous Branding

✅ The QR code with the logo and visual branding style continues communication even after the packaging is opened, building consistent brand recognition.

Scan Analytics

✅ The brand gains access to data about the number, geography, and time of code scans. This allows real-time adaptation of promotional strategies.

Support Optimization

✅ Thanks to QR codes, customers can quickly find answers to common questions or contact support via a convenient online form. This reduces the load on the call center.

Placement Tips for Packaging

Contrast: For effective scanning, it’s important to ensure high contrast between the QR code and the background. The best option is a dark code on a light background. Avoid color gradients or complex patterns behind the code.

Minimum Size: It is not recommended to make the QR code smaller than 2x2 cm. This is the minimum size that ensures readability on most smartphones. For curved or textured surfaces, it's better to increase the size.

Explanation: Add a brief explanatory text next to the code explaining what scanning will provide. For example, “Scan to activate warranty” or “Get a discount.” This greatly increases the likelihood that the user will actually scan the code.

Branding: Use the brand's logo in the center of the QR code, brand colors, and the overall packaging style. This emphasizes professionalism and strengthens brand recognition.

Use Dynamic Codes: Dynamic QR codes allow you to change the link even after printing. This is convenient for promotions, testing, or when you need to update content without reprinting packaging.

Placement in Visible Areas: Place the code in a logical and highly visible location — on the lid, label, or front side. Avoid areas that bend, are covered with film, or may get damaged when opened.

Common Mistakes When Using QR Codes on Packaging

Placement in Difficult Zones: One of the most common mistakes is placing the code in areas that may bend, be covered with film, or be hard to see. This reduces the likelihood of scanning and decreases the effectiveness of communication.

Lack of Call to Action: If there’s no explanation next to the code as to why it should be scanned, the customer may ignore it. Even simple text like “Scan for a discount” or “View instructions” significantly increases conversion.

Too Small or Weak Contrast: Codes that are difficult to read or appear decorative are often overlooked. Always check scanning on different devices before mass printing.

Using Static Codes for Changing Content: If you want the ability to update the link, it’s best to use dynamic QR codes. Otherwise, each change will require reprinting the packaging.

Effective Analytics

With FbFast, you can:

• 📈 See the number of scans by day
• 📍 Analyze the geography of customers
• 📱 Identify which devices customers are using
• 🎯 Calculate the effectiveness of each batch of packaging
• 🔎 Discover the most successful products or marketing messages

📦 Create a QR Code for Packaging in 30 Seconds

Add instructions, collect feedback, and bring customers back. Simple and no coding required. Your product deserves to be remembered by customers even after unpacking.

Create a Code for Packaging