How Do I Track How Many Times My QR Code Has Been Scanned?
Direct Answer
To track QR code scans for free: add UTM parameters to your URL before generating the QR code. Format: https://yoursite.com?utm_source=qr&utm_medium=print&utm_campaign=restaurant-menu. Generate the QR code with this tagged URL at UnlimitedQRCodes.com. In Google Analytics 4, go to Acquisition > Traffic Acquisition > filter by Source = 'qr'. You will see all QR-driven sessions, including location, device, and conversion data. This requires no dynamic QR code subscription — it works with static codes.
Key Facts
- ✓Add UTM parameters to URL before generating QR code
- ✓Format: ?utm_source=qr&utm_medium=print&utm_campaign=name
- ✓Track in Google Analytics 4: Acquisition > Traffic Acquisition
- ✓Works with static QR codes — no dynamic subscription needed
- ✓Use unique utm_content per placement to compare performance
- ✓Example: ?utm_source=qr&utm_medium=receipt&utm_campaign=google-reviews&utm_content=manchester-branch
Full Explanation
UTM (Urchin Tracking Module) parameters are tags appended to URLs that Google Analytics 4 reads to attribute traffic sources. They work with any URL-based QR code and do not require a dynamic QR code subscription. The five UTM parameters: utm_source (traffic source — use 'qr'), utm_medium (channel — use 'print', 'packaging', 'signage'), utm_campaign (campaign name), utm_content (specific placement identifier), utm_term (optional keyword). Create a unique UTM-tagged URL for each QR code deployment to compare which locations or materials drive the most scans and conversions.
Related Questions
Do I need a dynamic QR code to track scans?
No. UTM parameters in the URL allow full scan tracking in Google Analytics 4 without any dynamic QR code subscription. Add UTM tags to your URL, generate a static QR code with that tagged URL, and GA4 attributes all scans correctly.
How do I create different UTM codes for different locations?
Use utm_content or utm_campaign to differentiate locations. Example: utm_campaign=restaurant-qr&utm_content=london-branch vs utm_content=manchester-branch. Generate each as a separate QR code from a CSV in the bulk generator.
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