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SMS QR codes
An SMS QR code opens the scanner’s messaging app with your phone number and, optionally, a pre-written message body already filled in. The customer reviews the message and taps send — reducing the effort to initiate contact from a printed piece to a single action.When to use SMS QR codes
- Opt-in campaigns: Pre-fill a keyword (for example, “Text START to opt in to our newsletter”) so customers send a trigger word to your number, which activates an automation
- Appointment requests: Pre-fill a message like “Hi, I’d like to book an appointment” so customers can request scheduling with minimal effort
- Support contact: Give customers an easy way to text your support line from a receipt, packaging, or service materials
- Event check-in: Use SMS confirmation workflows activated by a keyword scan at an event
Creating an SMS QR code
Start a new QR code
Navigate to Sites > QR Codes and click Create QR Code. Enter a name for the code.
Enter the phone number
Enter the phone number that will receive the message. Include the country code in international format — for example, +1 555 123 4567 for a US number.
Add a pre-filled message (optional)
Enter a message in the message body field. This text appears pre-filled in the scanner’s messaging app. Keep it short and natural — something a real customer would comfortably send. For keyword-based automations, enter only the keyword.
SMS QR code tips
- Keep pre-filled messages under 160 characters to avoid multi-part messages on some devices
- For automation triggers, test the automation by sending the pre-filled message yourself before distributing materials
- Clearly label the QR code on your materials — “Scan to text us” or “Text us for a quote” — so customers know what action to expect
Call QR codes
A call QR code dials a phone number when scanned. On most devices, the phone app opens with the number pre-filled and the user taps the call button to connect. No holding up a card or mistyping — one scan and they are ready to call.When to use call QR codes
- Business cards: Give contacts a one-tap way to call you directly from the card
- Storefronts and window signs: Let passersby call your location without searching for the number
- Service vehicles: Passersby who see your vehicle can scan and call immediately while the number is in front of them
- Product packaging: For products that require customer service, a call QR code on the package removes the step of finding the support number
- Restaurant or food service: Allow customers to call ahead for reservations or pickup from a table card or takeout bag
Creating a call QR code
Start a new QR code
Navigate to Sites > QR Codes and click Create QR Code. Enter a descriptive name.
Enter the phone number
Enter the phone number to be dialed, with the country code in international format. Double-check the number carefully — a call QR code with a wrong digit routes customers to a wrong number.
Call QR code tips
- Always test the code before printing to verify the exact number dialed
- Add a visible phone number in text on the same material — some customers prefer to dial manually, and showing the number alongside the code increases confidence
- For tracking purposes, consider using a unique tracking number per placement so you know which materials are driving calls
Email QR codes
An email QR code opens the scanner’s default email app with the recipient address, subject line, and message body already filled in. The customer reviews and taps send to complete the inquiry, request, or message.When to use email QR codes
- Inquiry and quote requests: Pre-fill “I’d like to request a quote for [service]” so prospects can send an inquiry from a brochure scan
- Feedback and reviews: Ask customers to email feedback directly from a receipt or packaging
- Support requests: Provide an easy support email contact on products, manuals, or service documentation
- Event follow-up: On event materials, allow attendees to email the host or presenter directly for follow-up questions
Creating an email QR code
Start a new QR code
Navigate to Sites > QR Codes and click Create QR Code. Enter a name for the code.
Enter the email address
Enter the recipient email address. This is the address that will appear in the “To” field of the composed email.
Enter subject and message (optional)
- Subject line: Pre-fill the email subject, for example “Quote request from [your business name]” or “Feedback from a customer”
- Message body: Pre-fill the body with a starter message or prompt. For example: “Hi, I’d like to learn more about your services. My name is:” leaves room for the customer to complete the message naturally.
Email QR code tips
- Keep pre-filled messages helpful but not presumptuous — the customer should feel they are writing their own message, not sending something they did not compose
- A clear subject line helps you organize and prioritize incoming emails from QR code scans
- For tracking, use a dedicated email address or inbox folder for QR code responses so you can measure response volume
Comparing contact QR code types
| Feature | Call | SMS | |
|---|---|---|---|
| App that opens | Phone dialer | Messaging app | Email client |
| User action after scan | Tap call | Tap send | Review and tap send |
| Pre-fill content | Phone number only | Number + optional message | Address + optional subject + optional body |
| Best for | Immediate voice contact | Short messages, automations | Detailed inquiries, formal contact |
| Works without internet | Yes (cellular call/SMS) | Yes (cellular SMS) | Requires email connectivity |