How to Generate and Manage QR Codes in Bulk

Decide how many codes you need

You need a separate saved code for each destination or placement you want to measure independently. Ten copies of one poster can use the same code. Ten shops need ten codes if you want a separate scan count for each shop, even when they all open the same page.

QRtracer's bulk form accepts destination URLs and creates individually editable codes. It does not import a spreadsheet of names, and downloads are currently per code rather than one ZIP. Plan the artwork handoff before creating a large batch.

Prepare and validate the links

Keep one complete destination URL per line. Use your own links in this format:

https://example.com/menu/north
https://example.com/menu/south
https://example.com/menu/west

Open each destination while signed out. Check document permissions, the mobile layout and the final page after any redirect. The bulk form checks URL syntax; a valid-looking address does not prove that the destination exists or is publicly accessible.

• Missing or incorrect link: correct it before creating the batch.
• Repeated destination: decide whether you intentionally need separate codes for different placements.
• Campaign tags: prepare them consistently before pasting. See the UTM and measurement guide.

Keep a placement register

A useful name answers “where is this printed?” Use a short pattern such as spring-north-window. Keep the destination, artwork filename, installation date and responsible person alongside it in a register.

Download the placement register (CSV). This is a planning sheet for your team, not a file to upload to the bulk form. The example rows use placeholder URLs; replace them before use.

The QRtracer bulk create workflow

1. Open bulk creation in your dashboard. Paste the prepared URLs, separated by new lines or commas.
2. Check the valid and invalid counts. Correct invalid entries and compare the valid count with your register before submitting.
3. Add a name prefix. A prefix such as spring-north gives numbered names. Rename the saved codes afterwards if each one needs a specific placement name.
4. Create the batch and inspect the saved list. Match each code to its destination and register entry before downloading.
5. Download each required file. Keep its filename aligned with the saved code name so your designer can place the correct image.

Each saved code has its own redirect and scan history. Editing a destination updates that code; it does not replace the other codes in the batch. Open the bulk QR code page for the product entry point, or the API documentation for an automated workflow.

What each plan allows

Bulk creation is included during a new account's trial and on eligible paid plans. PNG downloads are available for saved codes; SVG requires an eligible plan. After trial access ends, existing codes keep redirecting under the current plan policy, but creating new dynamic codes requires an upgrade. Check current plans and export options before committing to a print run.

Test, print and maintain the batch

1. Check the mapping. Decode each final artwork file and compare the opened destination with its register row. A scannable code can still lead to the wrong shop.
2. Check the print. Test proofs at the intended size, on the intended material. Repeat when the design, surface or placement changes.
3. Record the handoff. Note which version went to the printer and when it was installed.
4. Keep ownership current. When a page changes or a placement is removed, update the existing saved destination or record the retirement in your register.

Start with a small representative batch before producing the whole run. For public placements, use the QR security checklist to include physical inspections in the same register.