How to make QR codes trackable

Step-by-step instructions to create trackable dynamic QR codes and connect them to campaign reporting.

Dashboard
1 min read
By Laurent Schaffner
Updated February 5, 2026

Short answer

Create a dynamic QR code that routes through your tracking platform, then connect campaign parameters and reporting views before launch.

Step-by-step

  1. Create a dynamic destination in your workspace
  2. Attach campaign tags/UTMs for attribution
  3. Generate the QR code and export the required format
  4. Test scan paths on iOS and Android
  5. Publish to print or digital placements
  6. Monitor scans and conversion events in dashboard views
  • Use a naming convention for campaign and placement
  • Keep one owner per campaign for data hygiene
  • Define a success metric before launch (for example, signups, leads, bookings)
  • Run a pre-launch scan QA checklist on multiple devices and networks to catch redirect, UTM, and destination issues early

Limits and caveats

  • Existing static printed codes generally need replacement.
  • Scan analytics require network access at scan time.
  • Location data is approximate, not GPS-level.

Frequently asked questions

Can I track QR scans across multiple locations? Yes. Use tags or campaign parameters per placement.

Do I need API access to get useful reporting? No. Dashboard reporting is enough for many teams; API is for advanced pipelines.

What causes bad tracking quality? Missing campaign parameters, inconsistent naming, and untested destination redirects.

For larger programs, document your campaign taxonomy and dashboard definitions in advance so cross-team reporting remains consistent over time.

Additional context

Use this page as a baseline reference and validate details against your current campaign setup, reporting requirements, and compliance obligations before rollout.

About the Author

LS

Laurent Schaffner

Founder & Engineer at Linkbreakers

Passionate about building tools that help businesses track and optimize their digital marketing efforts. Laurent founded Linkbreakers to make QR code analytics accessible and actionable for companies of all sizes.